On Sunday afternoon, a highly anticipated match will take place in Laval, featuring two top teams in the Premier Hockey Federation (PHF). The Montreal Force will host the Boston Pride at Place Bell, marking a crucial clash in the league. Currently, the Pride holds a narrow lead with 37 points compared to the Force’s 35 points.
Exciting Matchup: Montreal Force vs. Boston Pride
This matchup is particularly significant, as it will be the first meeting between the two teams since their season opener on November 23, which the Pride won 2-0. With 12 games remaining for each team, this game could have considerable implications for postseason positioning.
Spotlight on Goalkeepers
A key storyline will be the performance of the goalkeepers: Ann-Renée Desbiens of Canada and Aerin Frankel of the United States. Both are currently regarded as the best goalies in women’s hockey, showcasing their skills throughout the season.
- Ann-Renée Desbiens: 11 wins, 4 shutouts, 1.06 goals-against average, .958 save percentage.
- Aerin Frankel: 12 wins, 4 shutouts, 1.28 goals-against average, .949 save percentage.
Desbiens has not allowed more than two goals in any game this season, a testament to her exceptional performance. On the other hand, Frankel has faced challenges but remains a crucial player for the Pride. Both players have recorded a combined total of eight shutouts in the league, highlighting their impact.
Team Dynamics and Success
Desbiens attributes the recent success of the Force to a team effort and contributions from players like Marie-Philip Poulin. The team is currently on a six-game winning streak, reflecting their strong synergy.
Head coach Kori Cheverie praised Desbiens’ performance, stating, “Ann is better than she has ever been.” Cheverie believes that Desbiens has elevated her competitiveness, which has been vital for the team’s success.
This showdown not only serves as a fierce competition for league standings but also as a rematch following their previous encounter during the Olympic finals. The match is set to be a thrilling display of talent and determination.
Conclusion
As the Montreal Force prepares to face off against the Boston Pride, all eyes will be on the exceptional goalkeepers. With the stakes high and both teams eager to secure a win, fans can expect an exciting battle on the ice. The match takes place at Place Bell at 1 PM and will be aired live on El-Balad.
