Poulin and Stacey Aim to Lead Victoire to Walter Cup Victory Post-Olympics
After the emotional setback of losing the Olympic gold medal, Marie-Philip Poulin and Laura Stacey have quickly shifted their focus to capturing the Walter Cup. The two players reunited with their team, the Montreal Victoire, aiming for success in the PWHL.
Poulin and Stacey Return to Action
Poulin missed the Victoire’s opening game last Thursday due to a lower-body injury but made a comeback on Sunday. She contributed with an assist in a decisive 4-0 victory over the Minnesota Frost. This win propelled the Victoire to the top of the PWHL standings. However, the Boston Fleet trail closely with two games in hand.
“It’s extremely special that we now have this league that gives us the opportunity to come and play and chase another dream, another goal of winning that Walter Cup,” said Stacey.
Stacey’s Journey and Mental Fortitude
Stacey ended her eight-game goal drought during the win on Sunday. She previously returned to the now-defunct Canadian Women’s Hockey League in 2018, where she helped clinch the Clarkson Cup for the Markham Thunder. Reflecting on the emotional whirlwind following the Olympics, she noted the importance of mental resilience.
- Stacey’s Olympic highlights include winning a silver medal in 2018.
- Her goal in the recent match was pivotal in breaking her scoring slump.
- The support from teammates has been a crucial element of her journey.
Poulin’s Perspective
Poulin echoed Stacey’s sentiments on the emotional challenges post-Olympics. “It was a hard week,” she stated. The camaraderie within the Victoire provided the necessary support during this transition. “To come back here, it reminds you why you do it,” she added.
Victoire’s Strong Performance
Since their return, the Victoire have outscored opponents 8-1 in two games. They are focused on building momentum as they pursue the Walter Cup.
Ann-Renée Desbiens Shines in Goal
Goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens has also had a stellar season. In her last game, she achieved her fourth shutout, making only 17 saves. Currently, she boasts an impressive record of 11-4, with a goals-against average of 1.06 and a save percentage of .958. Desbiens leads all starting goaltenders in these categories, having not allowed more than two goals in any game this season.
Team USA Spotlight
In a lighter moment, Victoire forward Hayley Scamurra expressed excitement after seeing teammates Megan Keller and Hilary Knight feature on Saturday Night Live. Their appearance brought humor and attention to their team’s accomplishments, showcasing the highlight of their journey in a fun way.
The Montreal Victoire continue to demonstrate their potential as they chase the coveted Walter Cup. With star players returning and a solid team dynamic, they remain a formidable force in the league.
