Ottawa Charge's Gabbie Hughes (17) celebrates with teammate Tereza Vanisova (13) after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime against the New York Sirens during a PWHL game in Ottawa on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang)
Gabbie Hughes delivered a thrilling overtime winner, leading the Ottawa Charge to a hard-fought 5-4 victory over the New York Sirens. The second-year forward showcased her resilience, shaking off a painful injury to seal the game just 36 seconds into extra time.
Hughes, who also notched an earlier goal and an assist, took a nasty hit during the game, resulting in several chipped teeth. However, the pain didn’t stop her from making the decisive play.
“I chipped three or four teeth when my cage got knocked up by a stick,” Hughes said. “I’ll get them fixed tomorrow, but right now, I’m just happy with the win.”
A Clutch Performance Under Pressure
With eight points in her last five games, Hughes has been on fire. Her game-winning goal came after a near-defensive lapse that could have cost her team.
“I remember almost losing the puck in our end and thinking, ‘I need to make up for this,’” she recalled. “I rushed up ice, got the puck on my stick, and was about to pass when I heard my coach yell, ‘Shoot it.’ So, I did—and it worked out.”
Her quick decision-making and sharp instincts paid off, further proving her ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
Ottawa’s Offensive Growth
Charge head coach Carla MacLeod praised Hughes' execution and highlighted how the team is improving offensively.
“We’re getting better at positioning in front of goalies and taking smart shots,” MacLeod said. “When you get the puck on the stick of a player like Hughes, good things happen. She made the right call, and it paid off.”
A Turning Point in the Season
Hughes admitted her season didn’t start as strongly as she had hoped. However, a standout performance during Ottawa’s Mental Health Awareness game on February 13—where she scored twice and added an assist in an 8-3 win over Minnesota—helped shift her mindset.
“That game reminded me why I play and who I play for,” she said. “It’s for the people back home and Sophie.”
Hughes co-founded Sophie’s Squad, a mental health awareness organization, in 2021 after the tragic suicide of 14-year-old Sophie Wieland.
“That night put things in perspective, and I’ve been pushing forward ever since.”
