After not fully crossing the line, Hannah Bilka's first PWHL goal was called back. However, she lined right back up and supported her teammates to a win against the New York Sirens.
The goal buzzer went off in Tsongas Center as fans cheered thinking that Boston Fleet rookie Hannah Bilka had just scored her first PWHL goal. The crowd was electric as people watched on as she went down the bench giving fist bumps to her teammates.
Less than a minute later Bilka’s goal was under review and then ruled a no-goal. The referees said that the call was reversed because the puck never fully crossed the line.
The teams quickly lined up and resumed play. Without skipping a beat, Bilka lined back up for the faceoff. She never got that goal back and left the arena with one assist on the game. The Fleet won four-to-two against the New York Sirens.
Having your first PWHL goal called back and then ruled a no goal would be upsetting for some. However Bilka was quite matter of fact about it.
“I mean, it wasn't a goal” she continued, “I think it was pretty close, but it didn't fully cross the line”.
Her straight forward and to the point answer, spoke volumes about Bilka’s outlook on the season. It bodes well for Bilka and the Fleet as they return to play from the first international break.
In Hannah Bilka’s first three games with the Fleet she has recorded two assists and seven shots on goal. Bilka is on the starting line with players like Megan Keller, Hillary Knight, Sydney Bard and Hannah Brandt.
The rookie has had a strong start to her season, but she remains humble. As for her play this season, Bilka said, “I mean, I always just have a positive outlook. I'm playing with two great players and getting chances, so I know the goals will come”.
Her focus on the success of the team has helped the Fleet, particularly in their game last Sunday against the Sirens. Bilka’s line scored three out of the four goals that led to their first season win.
Although the team was off to a slow start, the team-mentality and optimism Bilka shows towards the future is promising.
Bilka will be looking to get her first goal on the season Tuesday when the Fleet play against Ottawa at Tsongas Center.