MIRAMICHI, N.B. – Cédric Massé made 34 saves to lead the Edmundston Blizzard to a 3-0 win over the Miramichi Timberwolves on Saturday night in a Maritime Junior A Hockey League (MHL) game played at the Miramichi Civic Center.
In a thrilling goaltending duel against Mathis Lafontaine (31 saves), Massé earned his second shutout of the season, a tie for the league lead with Miramichi’s Jack Flanagan, who was the backup in this game.
The score remained 0-0 until the 49th minute of play. The Blizzard finally broke the deadlock at 9:15 of the third period thanks to François-Xavier Mercier, who scored his third goal of the season. Shortly thereafter, at 10:40, Justin Trottier (5th) followed suit with the insurance goal. Émile Fournier completed the scoring with an empty-net goal, securing an important victory for Michael Ward’s squad. The Blizzard (7-6-0-1) moved into fourth place in the Eastlink North Division, tied with the West Kent Steamers (6-6-3-0). These two teams will face off on Sunday (4 p.m.) in Grand-Bouctouche.
Massé (1st), Mercier (2nd) and Lafontaine (3rd) were named the stars of the game, which marked the debut of newcomer Néka Jean. The Moncton forward made a good impression, particularly during power plays.
Goaltender Massé recorded his first shutout on September 27 in Yarmouth in an identical 3-0 win.
– 30 –
Photo
Goaltender Cédric Massé earned his second shutout of the season, while Justin Trottier (12) scored the second goal of the game. Photo archives Percy Picard
– 30 –
Source: Hugues Chiasson, communications – Edmundston Blizzard (506) 253-7741