Maureen Murphy netted two goals to lead the Montreal Victoire to a 3-1 victory over the Ottawa Charge in a packed arena at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, on Saturday. Ann-Renée Desbiens recorded 23 saves for the Victoire, propelling them to the second spot in the Professional Women’s Hockey League standings. Abby Roque sealed the win with an empty-net goal.
Faduza Kadirova notched the lone goal for the Charge, with Gwyneth Philips making 33 saves in their losing effort. Montreal struck first midway through the opening period when Hayley Scamurra’s shot was turned aside by Philips, only for Murphy to bury the rebound after a turnover at the blue line.
Murphy doubled her tally on a power play late in the first period, firing a one-timer into the top corner from a feed by Erin Ambrose. Ottawa thought they had narrowed the gap in the second period, but a goal was disallowed due to contact with Desbiens. The Charge eventually scored through Kadirova to make it 2-1.
In a late push, Ottawa pulled their goalie in search of an equalizer, but Montreal’s defense held firm. Desbiens shone once more, maintaining her stellar form by limiting Ottawa’s scoring opportunities. She thwarted Emily Clark’s breakaway in a key moment and kept Ottawa’s potent power play at bay throughout the game.
The Victory’s victory marked Ottawa’s second defeat in their last nine games, both against Montreal at Place Bell. Next up, Montreal will face the Toronto Sceptres, while Ottawa will host the Seattle Torrent on Wednesday.