Belgian U18 Women win 3-4 from U18 Women Netherlands
Last Saturday 18th of November, the practice game between the U18 women's teams of the Netherlands and Belgium took place. It was clear to see that both teams very nervous. After just 3 minutes and 24 seconds, Belgium took a 0-1 lead with a goal from Louise Paulissen. Anouk Belmans kept her nets clean and Team Belgium went to the dressing room with this score
The second period Tayana Thisens had taken place in goal. The Netherlands came strong out of the dressing room and soon managed to score the equalizer at 24:21. Both teams continued to get many chances. However, after a goalie change by the Netherlands, Ans Van Hoof managed to get the puck into the Dutch net at 32:53. And almost 6 min later Jirne Wagemans scored another goal and we went into the dressing room with a 1-3 lead. It continued to be an exciting game between the two countries with lots of action and chances for both teams.
During the third period, the suspens was killing. Belgium changed goalie again at the beginning of this period and Manon Meurez was allowed to defend the net. Both teams kept supporters on the edge of their seats. At 55:15, the Netherlands found the connection and hoped a draw or win was still possible. On a breakout by the Netherlands, the player was put down and the Belgian team got a penalty shot which Manon was able to stop. The Netherlands then got a minor penalty and Belgium managed to intercept the puck and scored Camille Sommerschuh the fourth goal on the powerplay at 56:58, making the score 2-4. The Dutch girls kept up the pressure and managed to score soon after the counter-goal, bringing the score back to 3-4. Many more chances followed, but then Belgium received a minor penalty with 13 seconds to go, causing the Netherlands to take a timeout and take the goalie off the ice for a 6-on-4 powerplay but the Belgian girls managed to prevent the chances and securing the win.