Multiple watch parties were held across Regina Thursday as fans gathered to watch the Olympic women’s hockey gold medal game between Canada and the United States. Supporters donned Canada gear at venues like Malty National and Boston Pizza, cheering on Team Canada in a matchup that added another chapter to the storied rivalry. Canada opened the scoring in the second period with a shorthanded goal by Kristin O’Neill, marking the first time all tournament that the U.S. had trailed. The 1-0 lead held through much of the game as both goaltenders Ann-Renée Desbiens for Canada and Aerin Frankel for the Americans delivered stellar performances. With just over two minutes remaining, U.S. captain Hillary Knight tied the game after Canada pulled its goalie for an extra attacker, sending the contest into overtime. In the extra frame, Megan Keller scored for the Americans, securing the gold medal. Local fan Leon Frisen said the loss was disappointing but encouraged by the team’s performance. “Three-on-three is a game of control, and it went back and forth. The U.S. scored, so the game was over. But we can still hold our heads high,” Frisen said.
