Press Release
Wednesday, February 09, 2022
Women's Hockey: Aigles Bleues visit Mounties Friday in Sackville
The Université de Moncton Aigles Bleues (6-9-0-1=13pts, 6th place) are looking forward to getting back into action in women's hockey as the team heads to Sackville and the Tantramar Veterans Memorial Civic Center on Friday for 7:15 p.m. encounter against the Mount Allison University Mounties (1-15-0-0=2pts, 8th place) in Atlantic University Sport.
After a break of more than two months, it will be interesting to see how Marc-André Côté's team behaves before postseason play. All eight teams will qualify for the playoffs. Moncton has 6 games remaining in regular schedule.
Pascale Lebeau is a third-year defenseman with the Aigles Bleues. “We are excited to resume play after losing hope of returning to the game,” she said. “We are happy to play our six games. We are looking for standings points.”
The players have undergone a fitness and training program over the past few weeks in addition to undergoing physical assessment tests.
“We are in good shape, and we will find the energy needed,” Lebeau added. “To advance, our special units will have to perform. We need to play as a team and score goals to climb in the standings. The whole team is there. We trained and kept our spirits up. The Mounties cannot be taken for granted. We will have to start strong and keep the pace the whole game.” Lebeau brings her vision of the game, defensive play, and her offensive launch to the Aigles Bleues.
For head coach Marc-André Côté, this first of six games of the second half should set the tone. “We need to work hard and exceed their level of intensity,” he said. “The business side of getting points is important for us to prepare for the playoffs. The Mounties are underestimated, and the team can play close games. We have to do what will help us.”
All players are available for the match and Audrey Berthiaume should be in front of the net on Friday. The special units had difficulty before Christmas and the coaching staff changed some aspects to find more success.
“We need to improve those areas and also our play 5-on-5,” Côté added. “Some elements were revised this week. The team is ready. I feel a certain positive nervousness. Everyone can't wait to get back to the games and maximize our chances. We want to prepare for the playoffs, it's part of the game-by-game process.”
Moncton is 4 and 6 in its last 10 games and lost its last encounter before the holidays. The Mounties have a record of 0 and 10 and have lost their last 11 games. Moncton played its last game on Nov. 30 against the Reds.
-30-
For more information:
Communications Department, communication@umoncton.ca, 506 858-4129
You can also fill out the information or interview request form.
Return to Press release