In an impressive home opener, the Montreal Victoire secured a 4-0 victory over the New York Sirens. Marie-Philip Poulin led the charge with one goal and an assist, marking her as the first PWHL player to achieve 50 career points. Abby Roque, facing her former team, dazzled with a spectacular goal and two assists.
Key Highlights from the Match
The game took place at Place Bell, drawing an audience of 8,391 fans. Ann-Renée Desbiens showcased an outstanding performance, stopping 33 shots and earning her second PWHL shutout. Other notable contributions came from Natalie Mlynkova, who scored Montreal’s first goal of the season, and Maggie Flaherty, who sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.
PWHL Season Context
- Montreal Victoire: Current record stands at 1-0-0-1 after this victory.
- New York Sirens: Their season record is also 1-0-0-1, following an earlier win against the Ottawa Charge.
Mlynkova’s goal came just 30 seconds into the second period, redirecting a point shot from Erin Ambrose on the power play. Poulin extended the lead later in the period, finishing off a setup from Laura Stacey. Roque’s impressive breakaway goal in the third period capped off the scoring, bringing her tally in the game to three points against her previous team.
Player Achievements and Statistics
- Marie-Philip Poulin:
- First player in PWHL history to reach 50 career points.
- 30 goals and 21 assists in 53 games last season.
- Last season’s league MVP.
- Abby Roque:
- Two assists and one goal in her debut with Victoire.
- Former Sirens player, traded for Kristin O’Neill.
- Ann-Renée Desbiens:
- Recorded her second PWHL shutout.
- Made 33 saves during the match.
Kaitlynn O’Neill, a former Victoire forward, received a warm reception during her return, reflecting her past contributions to the team. The Victoire will next host the Toronto Sceptres on December 7, while the Sirens are set to face the Vancouver Goldeneyes on Saturday.
