Montreal Lions Stage Thrilling Comeback: The Montreal Lions beat the Vancouver Owls in the opening match of the 2025 Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) Central Split on Saturday, May 17, at Smash Pickleball in London, Ontario. The Lions won three of five games to take the match 3–2 in front of an excited crowd.
A Big Start to the CNPL Season
This event kicked off the third season of the CNPL. Taking place in the “Forest City” of London, Ontario, the Central Split welcomes top Canadian pickleball teams to compete over two days, May 17 and 18. The league is known for its high-level matches and competitive team play.
The CNPL features players from across Canada and helps grow the sport nationally. Saturday’s match between the Montreal Lions and Vancouver Owls was the first of many in the 2025 season.
Match Recap: Montreal Takes the Win
The Montreal Lions team included Anne-Sophie Courteau, Ernesto Fajardo, Louis-Charles Amyot, and Stevie Petropouleas. They played a tight match against the Vancouver Owls, whose roster featured Anna Dyachenko, Armaan Jiwa Mawji, Caelan Sampson, and Christina Chin.
| Game | Montreal Lions | Vancouver Owls |
|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | 21 | 10 |
| Game 2 | 19 | 21 |
| Game 3 | 20 | 21 |
| Game 4 | 21 | 18 |
| Game 5 | 21 | 13 |
| Total Wins | 3 | 2 |
| Outcome | Win | Loss |
The Montreal Lions came from behind, winning the last two games to take the match 3–2.
What This Win Means
This victory gives the Montreal Lions a strong start to the season. With their teamwork and experience, they will look to stay at the top of the league standings. For the Vancouver Owls, the close match shows they are strong contenders who will look to bounce back in upcoming matches.
The 2025 CNPL Central Split continues on Sunday, May 18, with more action expected between other top teams as the third season builds momentum.
News in Brief: Montreal Lions Stage Thrilling Comeback
The Montreal Lions defeated the Vancouver Owls 3–2 on May 17, in the first match of the 2025 CNPL Central Split in London, Ontario. The match was part of the opening weekend of the Canadian National Pickleball League’s third season, held at Smash Pickleball.
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