Victoire’s Shutout Propels Frost to Top of PWHL Standings
In a standout performance, Ann-Renée Desbiens achieved her fourth shutout this season, leading the Montreal Victoire to a 4-0 victory over the Minnesota Frost. The match took place at Place Bell, marking an impressive day for Montreal in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL).
Key Performers
- Ann-Renée Desbiens: Recorded 17 saves.
- Maureen Murphy: Contributed one goal and one assist.
- Maggie Flaherty: Scored the first goal of the game.
- Dara Greig and Laura Stacey: Also netted goals for Montreal.
- Hayley Scamurra: Achieved two assists.
Game Summary
The Victoire has now won five consecutive matches and eight out of their last nine, putting them at 9-3-0-5 with a total of 33 points. This victory has propelled them to the top of the PWHL standings, just ahead of the Boston team, although Boston has two games in hand.
The game started strong for Montreal, with two goals scored within a span of 1 minute and 11 seconds in the first period. Flaherty opened the scoring with a wrist shot, followed by Greig, who capitalized on a rebound.
Second Period and Beyond
Murphy increased the lead to 3-0 in the third period, scoring from the slot. Stacey rounded out the scoring with a short-handed goal, further solidifying Montreal’s dominance in the matchup.
Special Teams Effectiveness
- Montreal: Failed to convert on two power play opportunities.
- Minnesota: Went 0 for 4 on the power play, including a missed chance on a 5-on-3 advantage.
Despite their efforts, Minnesota’s leading player, Kendall Coyne Schofield, missed the game due to being placed on long-term injured reserve. This marked the first game of her PWHL career that she did not participate in, having played in 69 regular-season games and 18 playoff games previously.
Upcoming Matches
The Montreal Victoire will face the Toronto Sceptres next on Tuesday, while the Minnesota Frost will meet the Sceptres the following Sunday.
This victory emphasizes the Victoire’s remarkable turnaround this season, having last been in last place on January 4. The team continues to build momentum as they push towards the playoffs.
