Rattlers win bronze in thriller over Rustlers

Lloydminster, AB - With a packed gym roaring behind them, the Lakeland Rustlers took full advantage of their home crowd as tournament hosts, battling the Medicine Hat Rattlers in a thrilling ACAC bronze medal showdown.

Right from the start, Gracie Smithson set the tone for Lakeland with relentless defensive hustle, while Medicine Hat's goalkeeper stood tall, denying an early breakaway from Darian Pluhator. The Rattlers struck first, with Olivia Bender netting the opener at 18:10, giving Medicine Hat a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Lakeland responded early in the second half when Smithson found the equalizer at 23:35, assisted by Megan Hockley. The battle continued with both teams pushing for the lead, and with 2:30 left, Keandra Leslie put the Rattlers back in front. However, Lakeland refused to back down, as Pluhator fired home the tying goal just 30 seconds later, forcing overtime.

With both teams digging deep, the first overtime half remained scoreless, highlighted by a clutch save from Lakeland's goalkeeper, Elizabeth McLeod. Medicine Hat's keeper responded with huge stops of her own, keeping the Rustlers from capitalizing on their home-gym momentum. Just when it looked like penalties were inevitable, Medicine Hat's Alexis Ratke delivered the game-winning goal with only 28 seconds left, sealing a 3-2 victory and the bronze medal for the Rattlers.

Smithson of Lakeland and Ratke of Medicine Hat earned Player of the Game for their standout performances.

Additionally, Olivia Bender of Medicine Hat was recognized for her impact throughout the tournament, earning a Tournament All-Star award.