Watch Fleet’s Jill Saulnier Throw Hands In Boston’s Overtime Win

Jill Saulnier proved to be a solid midseason trade pick-up for the Fleet, and she made PWHL history Thursday night.

Boston’s 2-0 lead evaporated after the Charge scored two third-period goals. Every point counts down the stretch, and tensions flared at TD Place. That tension led to a fight between Fleet forward Jill Saulnier and Ottawa forward Tereza Vanišová. The pair kept their helmets and gloves on, but full-blown punches were thrown. The forwards were assessed two-minute minor penalties after officials broke up the brawl.

Susanna Tapani, who scored the game-winner in overtime, admitted she had never seen a fight in her playing career. Theresa Schafzahl, who scored her first goal of the season Thursday night, credited Saulnier for providing the Fleet a spark.

Boston acquired Saulnier from the New York Sirens on Jan. 21 in exchange for Taylor Giard. Head coach Courtney Kessel commended the 32-year-old for her physical play, though it’s unlikely she could have foreseen her throwing hands in a game.

Boston moved to fourth in the PWHL standings after Thursday night’s win. The Fleet will move on to play New York at KeyBank Centre on Sunday.