LAVAL, Quebec — Ann-Renée Desbiens delivered an outstanding performance with 17 saves to secure her fourth shutout of the season, leading the Montreal Victoire to a 4-0 victory over the Minnesota Frost on Sunday. This win propelled Montreal to the top of the PWHL standings.
With this result, the Victoire moved one point ahead of Boston, extending their winning streak to five games and capturing eight wins in their last nine contests. Their season record now stands at 9-3-0-5.
Key Contributors and Player Highlights
Maureen Murphy contributed a goal and an assist, while Maggie Flaherty, Dara Greig, and Laura Stacey each added goals for Montreal. Hayley Scamurra provided two assists, supporting the offensive effort. Montreal’s captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, returned to the lineup after missing a game due to a lower-body injury sustained during the Olympics and assisted on Stacey’s goal.
On the opposing side, Minnesota goaltender Nicole Hensley stopped 29 shots but was unable to prevent the shutout. The Frost, who have a 7-2-3-4 record, played their first game after the Olympic break but struggled to convert on power plays, going 0-for-4, including a 5-on-3 disadvantage that lasted 54 seconds in the third period.
Game Action and Team Dynamics in Laval
The game saw Minnesota’s Katy Knoll aggressively challenge Desbiens in net, while Jade Downie-Landry of Montreal tested Hensley frequently in the final period. Several moments captured by Graham Hughes of The Canadian Press documented the intense exchanges, including Maggie Flaherty scoring against Hensley early in the first period and Stacey celebrating a goal alongside teammates Marie-Philip Poulin and Maggie Flaherty later in the third.
Upcoming Matches for Montreal and Minnesota
Looking ahead, the Minnesota Frost will face Toronto on Sunday, resuming their schedule after a break for the Olympics. The Montreal Victoire will also visit Toronto Tuesday night, aiming to build on their recent strong performances in the PWHL.
Impact of Montreal’s Victory in PWHL Standings
Montreal’s success in this game solidifies their position as league leaders and highlights the important role Ann-Renée Desbiens plays as a reliable goaltender. Her consistent shutout saves reinforce the Victoire’s defensive strength, which complements the scoring efforts from key players such as Laura Stacey and Marie-Philip Poulin. This victory also intensifies competition at the top of the standings as Boston trails closely behind.
