Montreal Victoire Wins First PWHL Title with Dominant Performance

The Montreal Victoire secured their first PWHL title after a commanding 4-0 win over the Ottawa Charge on Wednesday night. The victory took place in Game 4 of the Walter Cup Finals.

Abby Roque was instrumental, scoring twice, while Ann-Renée Desbiens made 23 crucial saves. Maggie Flaherty and Lina Ljungblom added to the scoreline for Montreal.

The series began with Montreal taking two overtime wins at home but slipping to a 2-1 defeat on Ottawa’s ice. Interestingly, home teams had dominated the last five finals games up until this match.

Just so much love for this group, Roque expressed. The things we have battled through these playoffs demonstrate the immense heart of this team. I love everybody and couldn’t be prouder.

The Minnesota Frost had won the previous two league titles after defeating Ottawa in last year’s finals. This season, Montreal overcame Minnesota in the semifinals.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged Montreal’s triumph, stating on social media, Congratulations to the Montreal Victoire, the 2026 PWHL Walter Cup champions! The Cup returns home for the first time after an incredible and historic season.

Montreal’s captain, Marie-Philip Poulin, was named playoff MVP, tying for the postseason lead with eight points, including two goals and six assists. Poulin stated, After the CWHL closed, uncertainties arose about the future of women’s hockey. But a dedicated group of women established this league. Winning the Walter Cup three years later feels exceptionally rewarding.

Roque opened the scoring at 3:49 into the second period. A deflection off Ottawa defender Rory Guilday’s stick saw the puck beat goalie Gwyneth Philips. Roque added another while short-handed in the third, maneuvering across the crease to score with a backhanded shot.

I’ve awaited these playoffs for a long time, Roque said. I love playoff hockey. It’s physical, tough, and full of action. That’s where the real fun begins for me. At this point, Poulin was serving a penalty for interference.

Montreal successfully killed penalties in the first two periods without incurring any themselves. Flaherty increased the lead to 3-0 later, shooting from the blue line through traffic. Ljungblom concluded with a goal from a turnover with 4:16 remaining.

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