Captain Marie-Philip Poulin delivered a vintage performance, scoring twice including the game-winning goal in overtime, to propel the Montreal Victoire to a crucial 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Frost on Sunday. The dramatic win at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, snapped a difficult skid for the home team, injecting fresh momentum into their season.
Poulin Takes Over in Overtime
The game, played on January 4, 2026, was deadlocked at 2-2 after regulation time, setting the stage for extra hockey. It took just over two minutes of the three-on-three overtime period for the decisive moment. Poulin, finding space in the offensive zone, unleashed a shot that beat the Minnesota goaltender, sending the Laval crowd into a frenzy. She was immediately mobbed by teammates Laura Stacey and Kati Tabin in a celebration captured by photographers.
Victoire Battle to End Losing Streak
The victory was a significant relief for Montreal, who had been struggling to find wins in recent outings. The team showed resilience, battling back in a tight contest against a formidable Frost squad. Poulin's first goal of the game had earlier tied the score, demonstrating her clutch play when her team needed it most. The entire Victoire lineup contributed to a more cohesive defensive effort compared to previous games, which was key to securing the two points.
Implications for the PWHL Standings
This overtime win provides vital points for Montreal in the highly competitive Professional Women's Hockey League standings. Beating a conference rival like Minnesota directly impacts the playoff race. The performance of Marie-Philip Poulin, often referred to as "Captain Clutch," serves as a powerful reminder of her ability to single-handedly shift the outcome of a game. The Victoire will look to build on this emotional victory as they continue their 2026 campaign.
The team's focus now shifts to their next matchup, hoping the confidence gained from this character win led by their superstar captain will spark a sustained positive run.
