Montreal Victory's Season Opener: A Thrilling Shootout Win

The Montreal Victory kicked off their second season with a dramatic 4-3 shootout victory over the Ottawa Charge at Place Bell in Laval. The game, played in front of a crowd of 10,033, showcased the team's resilience and the star power of their captain, Marie-Philip Poulin.

A Back-and-Forth Battle

The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish. Ottawa took an early lead, scoring twice in the first two periods, benefiting from some unfortunate bounces for Montreal. One goal saw Abby Boreen inadvertently deflect the puck into her own net while attempting to clear it, while the other saw the puck deflect off Kati Tabin's skate before crossing the goal line. Despite facing a two-goal deficit, the Montreal Victory didn’t falter. Their response showcased the team's determination and their ability to overcome adversity, a key factor highlighted by Coach Kori Cheverie.

Montreal's Comeback

The tide turned in the second period when Boreen redeemed herself with a powerful wrist shot, scoring the Victory's first goal of the season. This was followed by a stunning goal from Laura Stacey, whose blistering shot from the blue line tied the game. The team’s power play was also effective, scoring two goals in seven attempts. The third period saw Ottawa regain the lead before Jennifer Gardiner equalized for Montreal, setting the stage for a dramatic overtime and shootout.

Poulin's Shootout Magic

Overtime proved intense, with both teams generating scoring chances. Poulin had a breakaway opportunity but missed, adding to the tension. The shootout saw initial misses from both sides until Poulin stepped up in the fifth round. After two previous unsuccessful attempts, she calmly executed a different maneuver, scoring the game-winning goal. The Place Bell erupted as the crowd chanted her name. Ann-Renée Desbiens then sealed the victory by stopping Katerina Mrazova's shot, securing a hard-fought win for Montreal.

Captain Clutch's Perspective

Poulin, known as “Captain Clutch,” acknowledged the pressure but emphasized the importance of composure. She described her approach as taking a deep breath and moving forward, drawing on countless practice repetitions. She highlighted how the team’s character and resilience were crucial factors in their comeback. Poulin's performance underscores her importance to the team and her ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Her game winning goal demonstrated the experience and determination that has made her a household name in hockey.

A Promising Start for Montreal

Coach Cheverie expressed her pride in the team's character and resilience. She noted that even when trailing by two goals, the team's demeanor on the bench remained positive and focused. While acknowledging the team is still finding its rhythm, the opening game performance was incredibly promising. The game highlighted the team's depth, with goals from established veterans and newer players alike. The Montreal Victory's next game is Wednesday against the New York Sirens at Place Bell.

Looking Ahead: A Season of Promise

The Montreal Victory’s opening game victory sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting season. The team's resilience, combined with the offensive firepower of players like Poulin and Stacey, suggests a strong showing throughout the season. The team’s dynamic power play also offers a promising avenue for future scoring opportunities. The addition of several new players, along with the returning core of experienced veterans, creates a unique blend of talent and experience. This combination is poised to challenge for a spot at the top of the league standings. The team demonstrated great mental fortitude during this game. The season has started on a high note, setting the tone for what promises to be an electrifying journey throughout the season. The team's performance was not just a victory, but a statement of their intent and capabilities.