Marie-Philip Poulin’s shootout winner lifts Victoire to win over Charge
Marie-Philip Poulin once again proved to be the hero for the Montreal Victoire in a thrilling season opener against the Ottawa Charge. Despite facing some challenges throughout the game, Poulin managed to score the shootout winner, securing a 4-3 victory for her team.
The Montreal captain, known for her clutch performances in crucial moments, missed a breakaway in overtime and an earlier attempt in the shootout before finally finding the back of the net in the fifth round. Head coach Kori Cheverie’s confidence in Poulin paid off as she deked past Ottawa’s netminder to seal the win in front of a lively crowd at Place Bell.
Poulin’s winner came after Ottawa’s Emerance Maschmeyer put on a stellar 42-save performance, keeping her team in the game. Maschmeyer, who faced off against Poulin in multiple key moments, acknowledged the challenge of going up against such a talented player.
Despite some missed opportunities in previous games, Poulin’s determination and resilience shone through in this match. Cheverie highlighted Poulin’s emotional investment in the game and her desire to make a significant impact for her team.
Goalie Maschmeyer’s impressive performance also drew praise from her coach, Carla MacLeod, for giving the Charge a chance to compete against the dominant Victoire. Maschmeyer’s resilience and skill in the net were key factors in keeping her team in contention throughout the game.
The depth of the Montreal lineup was another area of focus, with players like Abigail Boreen and Jennifer Gardiner stepping up to contribute to the team’s success. The balanced contributions from all lines showcased the team’s improved depth and ability to create scoring opportunities.
Overall, the Montreal Victoire’s season opener was a thrilling and hard-fought contest that highlighted the team’s resilience and determination to succeed. With Poulin leading the way and the entire team stepping up, the Victoire look poised for a successful season ahead.