West Orange, NJ – The Minnesota Frost made a strong statement in their PWHL preseason training camp opener, defeating the New York Sirens 5-2 at Codey Arena on Thursday afternoon. Despite a late surge from the home team, Minnesota’s early dominance and efficient power play showcased their readiness for the upcoming season.
First Period Sets the Tone
Captain Kendall Coyne Schofield opened the scoring at 4:27 of the first period, giving Minnesota an early 1-0 lead that they would never relinquish. The Frost-controlled play throughout the opening frame, outshooting the Sirens 11-9 and establishing the physical tone that would define the afternoon’s training camp contest.
Power Play Excellence Extends Lead
Minnesota’s special teams made the difference in the middle frame. Britta Curl-Salemme capitalized on a Maddi Wheeler cross-checking penalty, scoring on the power play at 3:36 of the second period to make it 2-0. Mae Batherson added an even-strength tally at 15:31, extending the Frost’s advantage to three goals heading into the final period.
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Frost Pour It On Early in Third
The visitors continued their offensive onslaught early in the third period. Peyton Anderson netted an insurance goal just 4:21 into the frame, and Kelly Pannek added another power-play marker at 8:38, giving Minnesota a commanding 5-0 lead in the preseason exhibition.
Sirens Stage Late Rally, Fall Short
New York finally broke through when Wheeler scored at 12:21, assisted by Lauren Bernard, cutting the deficit to 5-1. The Sirens showed renewed life when Kristýna Kaltounková added another goal with Bernard assisting again at 18:21, making it 5-2. The late push demonstrated New York’s resilience but came too late to change the outcome of the training camp matchup.
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Goaltending Battle
Nicole Hensley impressed for Minnesota, stopping 26 of 28 shots over 65 minutes in the preseason opener. Kaley Doyle took the loss for New York, making 25 saves on 30 shots while facing consistent pressure throughout the afternoon.
Special Teams Shine for Minnesota
Minnesota’s power play went 2-for-3 (66.7%), while New York failed to convert on their lone power-play opportunity. The Frost’s discipline also played a crucial role, taking just one penalty compared to three for the Sirens—a positive sign heading into the regular season.
By the Numbers
- Shots: Minnesota 30, New York 28
- Power Play: Minnesota 2/3, New York 0/1
- Penalty Minutes: Minnesota 2, New York 6
- Attendance: 150 fans witnessed the preseason training camp opener at Codey Arena
- Game Duration: 2 hours, 26 minutes
Training Camp Takeaways
For Minnesota, the preseason opener showcased offensive depth with five different goal scorers and strong special teams execution. The Frost’s ability to maintain pressure and capitalize on opportunities bodes well for the regular season.
New York showed flashes of potential, particularly in their third-period comeback attempt. Lauren Bernard’s two assists demonstrated playmaking ability, while the late goals from Wheeler and Kaltounková provided positive momentum despite the loss.
What’s Next
Both teams will continue their preseason training camps with additional exhibition games before the regular season begins. Minnesota will look to build on its strong performance, while New York aims to tighten up their early-game execution and penalty discipline.
The preseason provides valuable opportunities for roster evaluation, line chemistry development, and game-situation preparation—all critical elements as both teams prepare for the PWHL regular season.
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