Dans une soirée électrisante pour le hockey féminin à Montréal, la capitaine Marie-Philip Poulin a encore une fois démontré pourquoi elle est surnommée “Captain Clutch.” Avec deux buts décisifs, Poulin a propulsé Montréal Victoire vers une victoire de 3-2 contre Ottawa Sirens, assurant ainsi à l’équipe la première place au classement de la Ligue professionnelle de hockey féminin.
The Verdun Auditorium vibrated with energy last night as nearly 3,500 passionate fans witnessed Montreal secure home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs. This achievement marks a significant milestone for our city’s newest professional sports franchise in its inaugural season.
“C’est spécial de jouer devant nos partisans. Leur énergie nous pousse chaque match,” m’a confié Poulin après la rencontre, encore essoufflée mais rayonnante. “Finir en première position, c’était notre objectif, mais ce n’est que le début.”
The game epitomized everything that has made the PWHL’s first season such a compelling narrative for Montreal sports fans. Tight checking, world-class skill, and moments of brilliance that brought the crowd to their feet repeatedly.
Erin Ambrose, whose defensive prowess has been crucial for Montreal all season, explained the significance of securing the top seed: “Playing in front of our fans gives us such an advantage. The atmosphere in Verdun is unlike anything I’ve experienced in women’s hockey.”
Montreal’s success story extends beyond the ice. According to PWHL officials, the team has consistently drawn near-capacity crowds, averaging over 3,200 fans per game. Local businesses around Verdun Auditorium report significant upticks in activity on game days.
“Les soirs de match sont devenus nos soirées les plus occupées,” explique Martine Tremblay, propriétaire du Café Verdun, situé à quelques pas de l’auditorium. “C’est merveilleux de voir comment cette équipe a créé une nouvelle dynamique dans le quartier.”
The playoff picture is now set with Montreal facing Toronto in the first round while Boston and Minnesota will battle in the other semifinal series. Games are expected to begin next week, though the league has yet to announce the official schedule.
What’s particularly striking about Montreal’s success is how quickly the team has established its identity. Head coach Kori Cheverie has masterfully blended international stars with local talent to create a resilient, skilled group that reflects Montreal’s passionate hockey culture.
“We’ve worked to build something that represents this city’s rich hockey tradition while creating something new and exciting,” Cheverie told me. “These players have bought in completely to what we’re trying to accomplish.”
Last night’s victory featured standout performances beyond Poulin’s heroics. Goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens made 28 saves, including several spectacular stops in the final minutes as Ottawa pressed for an equalizer. Laura Stacey contributed the third Montreal goal and added an assist.
For many young fans in attendance, these players represent something they’ve never had before – professional women athletes they can aspire to become. Eight-year-old Sophie Lamontagne, wearing a Poulin jersey that nearly reached her knees, summed it up perfectly: “Je veux être comme Marie-Philip quand je serai grande. Elle est la meilleure.”
The economic impact of the team extends throughout the city. Sportswear retailers report that Victoire merchandise is consistently among their top sellers, with Poulin and Desbiens jerseys particularly difficult to keep in stock.
“La demande est incroyable,” confirme Jean Leblanc, gérant d’une boutique sportive du centre-ville. “Nous n’
