1954/55 ECHO Preseason Preview
Power Rankings

1- Montréal Métros
The Montréal Métros, as the reigning champions, are eager to replicate their success from the previous season. Led by players like Edouard Lefebvre, Yvan Roy, and Sage Steeves, who bring valuable championship experience to the team, the Métros have a solid foundation upon which to build. With a mix of seasoned veterans and talented newcomers such as Rhys Simpson and Easton Ward, Montréal is well-equipped to launch another strong championship campaign. Keep an eye out for standout defenseman Arthur Tremblay, a key acquisition in the offseason who is expected to bolster the Métros' defence and contribute to their title defence. With a deep and talented roster, along with a winning pedigree, the Montréal Métros are poised for another successful season ahead as they aim to secure back-to-back Sound Cups.

Best Player: C Edouard Lefebvre
Best Rookie: W Rhys Simpson

2- Trois-Rivières Tigres
After the defeat against the Métros in the St. Lawrence Division Final last season, Trois-Rivières is focused on redemption in the upcoming season. The team is led by standout players Timmy Overton and Ephraim Gauthier, complemented by a roster of experienced veterans and promising young talent. Trois-Rivières has strengthened their lineup with additions like David Olson and Louis-Phillipe Garand, aiming to improve upon their solid performances in previous seasons and make a deep playoff run. Key free agent signing Tony Mitchell is set to bolster the defence and provide stability on the blue line. With goaltender Emmett O'Leary guarding the net, Trois-Rivières boasts the league's top goaltender and is poised for a strong championship push this season. Keep a close watch on the Tigres as they seek to avenge their past playoff loss and showcase their potential in the upcoming season.

Best Player: G Emmett O'Leary
Best Rookie: C David Olson

3-Halifax Highlanders
The Halifax Highlanders are determined to bounce back this season following an unexpected playoff miss last year. Led by the talented duo of center William MacDougall and winger Charlie Ellis, the Highlanders are gearing up to make a strong playoff push. Supported by offensive threats Antony Sinclair and Benoit Archambault, Halifax boasts the firepower needed to excel in the league. Keep a watchful eye on defenseman Stanley Blackwood, a standout player known for his strong presence on the blue line, who will bolster the team's defensive capabilities. With seasoned goaltender Alex Davis guarding the net, Halifax aims to strengthen its position and secure a playoff berth. Featuring a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Highlanders are poised to make a statement and strive for success in the upcoming season. Watch out for this determined team as they look to make their mark and contend for a playoff spot.


Best Players: W Charlie Ellis / C William MacDougall
Best Rookie: C Robert Richelieu

4- Charlottetown Monarchs
After suffering a defeat against Montréal in the Sound Cup Finals last year, the Charlottetown Monarchs are eager to make a strong comeback and pursue another deep playoff run in the upcoming season. Spearheaded by center Jacques Tremblay, a pivotal player for the team since his recruitment in 1946, the Monarchs showcase a combination of experienced veterans and skilled young talents. Featuring offensive standouts like Yvon Robichaud and Steve Wetherell, Charlottetown possesses the offensive prowess needed to contend with the league's top teams. Defensively, players such as Ryan Wilkinson and Geoffrey Jeffries will play a crucial role in stifling opposing offences and providing essential support for goaltender Peter Chiasson. Chiasson, a dependable presence in the net, will be instrumental in keeping Charlottetown competitive in closely fought contests. With a mix of veteran guidance and promising youth, the Monarchs are resolute in their quest for a deep playoff run and another shot at the championship. Watch out for this determined team as they aim to reclaim their spot among the league's elite contenders.

Best Player: C Jacques Tremblay
Best Rookie: W Noah Pierre

5- Fredericton Stars
The Fredericton Stars, who narrowly missed the playoffs last season, are determined to mount a strong push for postseason success in the upcoming season. Spearheaded by the dynamic duo of center Anatole Grenier and winger Gérard Moisan, the Stars boast a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. Players like winger Sebastian Wilson and defenseman Kevin Larkin have reinforced Fredericton's lineup for a serious playoff campaign. On the back end, stalwarts such as Robert Leblanc and Simon St-Pierre offer a steady presence on defence, while emerging talents like Loic Méthot and Anthony Lavoie bring depth and vigour to the blue line. In goal, the reliable Stanley Fraser is prepared to serve as the linchpin of the Stars' defence and ensure competitiveness in closely contested matches. With a well-rounded roster and a hunger for triumph, Fredericton is poised to mount a strong playoff push and potentially vie for a championship in the upcoming season. Watch closely as this team seeks to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the league.

Best Players: D Robert Leblanc / G Stanley Fraser
Best Rookie: W Egidus Provencher

6- Moncton Generals
The Moncton Generals, who had clinched two consecutive Sound Cups, faced a crushing sweep in the Atlantic division finals by Charlottetown last year. The team is now focused on rebounding and re-establishing their winning ways in the upcoming season. Guided by center Allan Wilson, a seasoned player with a long tenure since 1946, the Generals possess a strong core of experienced veterans and promising young talent. Wingers Andrew Postl and Daniel Hebert contribute offensive prowess, while defensemen Glen Wallace and Bartholomé Carpentier provide solid defensive play. In goal, William Parker stands as a reliable presence, supported by the emerging goaltender Michael Bisson. With a roster blending talent and experience, the Moncton Generals are resolute in their quest for a strong comeback and championship contention. They aim to capitalize on their prior successes and overcome the disappointment of last season's premature playoff exit. Monitor this team closely as they pursue a deep playoff run and strive to secure another Sound Cup.

Best Player: C Allan Wilson
Best Rookie: D Daniel Camden

7- Ottawa Knights
The Ottawa Knights, who finished in a distant third in the St. Lawrence division last season, are aiming to regroup and elevate their performance in the upcoming season. At the center position, Ottawa showcases skilled players like Lee Harper and Daniel Bernard. Wingers Joe Djogo and Glen Nash offer offensive depth, while defensemen Rick Murray and Kevin Taylor provide solidity in the defensive line. In goal, David Moreau and Tom Mullings offer stability and reliability. With the arrival of new talents such as Philippe Lalonde and Francois-Marie Humbert, the Ottawa Knights seek to bolster their roster and compete more effectively in the challenging St. Lawrence division. Watch out for this team as they strive to climb higher in the playoff race and potentially contend for divisional supremacy in the upcoming season.

Best Player: D Rick Murray
Best Rookie: D Francois-Marie Humbert

8- Cape Breton Islanders
The Cape Breton Islanders, who finished third in the Atlantic Division in their second season post-relocation, are determined to enhance their performance and solidify their status as contenders in the upcoming season. Center Guy Morrison, a veteran presence on the team since 1951, guides the Islanders, who boast a roster consisting of a blend of experienced players and promising young talent. Wingers Louis Moreau and Nicholas Marriott bring offensive skill to the team, while defensemen David Murray and Léonce Dupond fortify the blue line with their robust defensive abilities. Goalies Ray Young and David Taylor contribute solid goaltending options to the team. With the recent additions of winger Matt Hood and defenseman Jeffery Jenkins, the Cape Breton Islanders are aiming to strengthen their core and make a playoff push this season.

Best Player: W Louis Moreau
Best Rookie: C Matt Hood


9- Montreal Beavers
The Montreal Beavers, a team that reached the finals two years ago but have struggled to maintain that same level of success, are now facing obstacles as they work towards reclaiming their competitive edge in the upcoming season. Center Thierry Rousseau, a pivotal free agent signing in 1952, leads the Beavers, who have a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents on their roster. Wingers such as John Peters and Robert Smith contribute to the team's offensive prowess, while defensemen Sully Morrison and Chris King anchor the defensive line with their reliable performances. Goalies Louis Giroux and Phillip Myorca are determined to provide strong goaltending for the team, both having originally started their ECHO careers for the Métros on the other side of Montreal. With recent additions, including defenseman Rudy Scott and forward Joseph Vachon, the Montreal Beavers are focused on rebuilding and refreshing their team as they strive to reverse their fortunes and elevate their competitiveness in the ever-so-challenging ECHO.

Best Player: C Thierry Rousseau
Best Rookie: C Noah Cliffe


10- Quebec Reds
The Quebec Reds have faced significant challenges over the past three seasons, finishing last in the league each year. With tensions running high between owner Jonah Roberts and head coach Thomas Lane as they head into the new season, the Reds are in desperate need of a breakthrough to give the franchise some new life. Despite the discord, the team boasts some promising talent on their roster that could potentially lead them to improved results in the upcoming season. Notable players such as center James Stewart, a key free agent acquisition in 1951, and veteran winger Roy Davies, who provides invaluable leadership, highlight the team. Emerging talents like defenseman Edouard Lécuyer and winger Henri Tremblay offer hope for the team's future. Goalie Patrick Bell and defenseman Étienne Tremblay are pivotal in anchoring the defensive line, aiming to strengthen their play in order to compete more effectively. To overcome their struggles, the Reds must address their management issues and prioritize player development to enhance their competitiveness in the league. Despite their recent setbacks, the Quebec Reds have the potential to turn things around with a renewed focus and commitment to improvement.

Best Player: W Roy Davies
Best Rookie: W Henri Tremblay

How do you think the season will unfold? Predictions are welcome, as are other comments and criticisms.

1955 Sound Cup Playoffs (Round 1)

Halifax Highlanders vs Charlottetown Monarchs
The first game between the two fierce rivals ignited with high intensity as both teams landed some bone-crushing hits. Despite numerous attempts from both sides to score, it wasn't until late in the opening period that Halifax winger Ron White took a chance and sent the puck flying towards the Charlottetown net from the faceoff circle. The puck hit the left post and ricocheted into the back of the net, giving the Highlanders the much-needed opening lead. Halifax continued to dominate in the second period, with defenseman Jean Tremblay's wrist shot finding the back of the net on the powerplay, followed by Stanley Blackwood's devastating slapshot that made it 3-0. The Monarchs weren't ready to give up just yet, so they relentlessly fired shots at Halifax's netminder Alex Davis until, in the dying seconds of the period, center Jacques Tremblay managed to score on a rebound, making it 3-1. However, Charlottetown couldn't break through Halifax's solid defence in the third period. Davis was in top form, and the Highlanders managed to hold on to their win, taking the opening lead in the series.

Game 2 of the series started with high intensity, and both teams were fighting hard to gain the upper hand. However, things took a turn for the worse when Halifax's center, Peter Lumley, got injured after a brutal hit by Charlottetown's Eli Mullins. The Highlanders were quick to respond, and winger Paul Marchand scored a goal just a minute after Lumley left the ice, giving Halifax the lead. But the Monarchs were not going to let that slide, and they struck back a few minutes later when center Yvon Robichaud blasted the puck into the back of the net to tie the game at one. The game was far from over, and the physical play continued, with both teams giving it their all. Winger Ken Chang put Charlottetown in the lead 2-1 after beating Halifax netminder Alex Davis glove-side. Unfortunately, Halifax's defenseman, Stanley Blackwood, had to leave the game due to an injury he sustained after getting hit. But this didn't stop the Highlanders from putting up a tough fight. Winger Antony Sinclair replied with a big slapshot into the top right corner of the Charlottetown net to tie the game at 2, and then a few minutes later, Halifax's center William MacDougall also scored with a great slapshot to put the home team in the lead once again. The tension was palpable, and it was almost 20 minutes of play before the next goal. But finally, the Highlanders' Albert Ferguson put the puck past Monarchs netminder Peter Chiasson to put Halifax up 4-2 later in the third period. In the dying minutes of the third period, Charlottetown pulled their goalie to get a goal back with the man advantage. But it was Halifax who profited off of that, with center Sean Fontana scoring with a quick wrist shot into the open net. And just when the audience thought it was over, defenseman Jean Tremblay scored an empty-netter to close out the Highlanders' dominant 6-2 win and push the Monarchs to the brink of elimination.

As the series switched to Charlottetown, the Monarchs were desperate to get back into the series and avoid a sweep. However, it would be Halifax who would start the game strong, peppering Charlottetown netminder Peter Chiasson with shots until eventually, winger Charlie Ellis would break the metaphorical ice with a devastating slapshot to put the Highlanders up 1-0 early in the first period, and then a few minutes later, defenseman Albert Ferguson would double the Highlanders lead off a rebound. It would not deter the Monarchs, however, and late in the 1st period, winger Robert Gill would beat Halifax backup netminder Raphael Vannier right below the glove to cut the lead in half, and then a few minutes later, winger Gary Morgan would pick up an errant pass and fling the puck right into the Halifax net to tie the game at two apiece. Of course, the Highlanders didn't let that slide, and in the dying minutes of the 1st frame, winger Stephen Collins would put the visitors back in the lead with a well-placed wrist shot. The momentum continued to shift in favour of Charlottetown as they came out strong in the second period, determined to even up the score. The Monarchs continued to put pressure on the Halifax defence, creating multiple scoring opportunities. Midway through the second period, Charlottetown's relentless effort paid off when Robert Gill blasted home his second goal of the game to re-tie the game, but just two minutes later, Halifax's Sean Fontana capitalized on a scoring opportunity with a well-placed wrist shot that beat the Monarchs goaltender to give the Highlanders a 4-3 lead. As the game headed into the third period, Halifax continued to apply pressure on Charlottetown. Eventually, winger Robert Mayne would double the visitors' lead with a powerful slapshot past Monarchs netminder Peter Chiasson. However, Charlottetown wasn't calling it quits just yet, and a few minutes later, center Jacques Tremblay stepped up for the Monarchs and sent the puck flying into the back of the Halifax net to reduce the lead back down to 5-4. Despite Charlottetown's valiant efforts to even the score, Halifax's defence stood firm in the closing minutes of the game as the Highlanders were able to weather the Monarchs' offensive onslaught and secure a hard-fought 5-4 victory, ultimately eliminating Charlottetown from the playoffs with a sweep to clinch their 5th Sound Cup Final appearance. (HFX wins 3-0)

Trois-Rivières Tigres vs Montréal Métros
Both teams were on fire in the first period of Game 1, with some great scoring opportunities, but none of them could convert. However, things started to heat up early in the second period when Montréal winger Murray Brissett sent the puck out of play, leading to a delay of game penalty being called against him. The Tigres were quick to capitalize on the opportunity, and 20 seconds into their powerplay, Trois-Rivières winger Alexander Ross sent a wrist shot zooming past Métros netminder Andy Fox, opening the score in favour of the home team. The Métros tried to bounce back, but their hopes were dashed when they were penalized once again, leading to Tigres winger Ted Gagne blasting the puck into the back of the net, scoring the home team's second powerplay goal and putting Trois-Rivières up by two. The game went from bad to worse for the Métros early in the third period when Tigres winger Ephraim Gauthier's wrist shot found the back of the net, making it 3-0. A few minutes later, defenseman William Gray's wrist shot made it 4-0, and the Métros' situation looked hopeless. Late in the third period, Trois-Rivières' Nathaniel Cardinal added insult to injury with a quick wrist shot that flew into the net, making it 5-0 on the powerplay. Tigres goalie Emmett O'Leary was a brick wall, stopping all 30 of Montréal's shots en route to a shutout, leaving the Métros with a lot to think about as the Tigres took the opening lead in the series.

Game 2 of the series was an all-out war, as both teams were fiercely determined to come out on top. It started as a defensive battle, with neither team giving an inch, but it wasn't long before the Tigres' Antoine Verret blasted the puck past Montréal's goalie, Andy Fox, to take the lead. A few minutes later, the Tigres' Ted Gagne deflected a shot into the back of the net to double their lead. Then, William Gray's wrist shot found twine, and Alexander Ross also scored on a deflection, putting Trois-Rivières up 4-0. The Métros weren't going down without a fight, however, and early in the second period, Edouard Lefebvre sent a rebound flying past Trois-Rivières' Emmett O'Leary to score Montréal's first goal of the series, bringing the score to 4-1. Then, center Bill Walker Jr. beat O'Leary with a great slapshot, and Emmanuel Gatewood made his former team pay on the powerplay with a quick wrist shot, bringing the score to 5-3. The Métros weren't done yet, and in the dying seconds of the second period, Murray Brissett brought the Métros within one goal of tying the game with a well-placed wrist shot over O'Leary's left pad. The third period was intense, with both teams exchanging big hits and trying to score. Eventually, Montréal would tie the game at 5 with a quick shot from defenseman Arthur MacDonald, and the teams would need overtime. Overtime was nerve-wracking as both teams knew what was at stake. Montréal got a lot of opportunities early, but Trois-Rivières didn't give up without a fight. Then, just a few seconds after the 5-minute mark, center Yvan Roy let off a wrist shot in the offensive zone, which would be deflected by winger Murray Brissett right past Emmett O'Leary to complete the craziest comeback so far in the history of the ECHO and tie the series at 1.

As the series shifted to Montréal for Game 3, both teams were looking to get the momentum, and Trois-Rivières would be the first one on the board when center Alex Fortin lodged the puck past netminder Andy Fox to give the visitors the early lead. The Métros, still on a high from their incredible comeback in game 2, didn't want to have to repeat that here, so later in the 1st period, winger Kane Asper would level the score at 1-1 with a great slapshot. Montréal didn't stop there, and less than a minute into the second period, winger Tristan Loubier beat Tigres netminder Emmett O'Leary with a quick wrist shot to put the Métros up 2-1. A few minutes later, Trois-Rivières would take a penalty, which would prove costly as Montréal's Murray Brissett would give his team a 2-goal lead with a well-placed wrist shot on the subsequent powerplay and center Yvan Roy would add his contribution late in the period to make it 4-1 for the home team after 40 minutes of play. Early in the third, the Tigres would finally respond, with winger Gavin Scott finding an opening and sending the puck into the back of the Métros net to make it 4-2. The visitors would try to get something going, but late in the 3rd period, Montréal's Murray Brissett would score his second of the game to put his team back up by 3. Despite a last-minute powerplay goal from Trois-Rivières' Alexander Ross, the Métros would hold on to their lead and take a commanding 2-1 lead in the series with a 5-3 victory.

The atmosphere was tense as the two teams skated onto the ice at Aréna de Montréal for the crucial Game 4, knowing what was at stake. The Métros would start out dominating possession and peppering Trois-Rivières goaltender Emmett O'Leary with shots, and eventually, center Yvan Roy would unleash a slapshot that would rebound off O'Leary's pad right back to Roy, who would lodge the puck into the back of the net to put Montréal up 1-0. The domination would continue after that, and a few minutes later, winger Kane Asper would put the Métros up 2-0 with a well-placed shot. Despite many attempts by the Tigres, they wouldn't be able to convert and then early in the second period, Montréal winger Edward Cho would beat O'Leary with a quick wrist shot to put the home team up 3-0. Of course, Trois-Rivières wouldn't let the Métros run all over them and barely a minute later, winger Ephraim Gauthier blasted the puck past Montréal backup netminder Louis-Philippe Tran to make the score 3-1, but a few minutes later, Métros center Edouard Lefebvre would restore his team's 3-goal lead with a well-placed shot. The Tigres hadn't said their last words, however, and midway through the third period, winger Ted Gagne would put the score at 4-2 with a quick shot off of a rebound, and then a few minutes later, center Albert Leclerc made it 4-3 with a well-placed wrist shot. That was the last goal Montréal would allow, however, as the Métros stood tall defensively to close out the series with a 4-3 win and advance to their 4th Sound Cup Final. (MTM wins 3-1)



1955 Sound Cup Finals Preview
Halifax Highlanders vs Montréal Métros
The 1955 Sound Cup Finals mark the third confrontation between the Halifax Highlanders and the Montréal Métros, with the Métros emerging victorious in 1946 and the Highlanders claiming the title in 1951. Now, as they face off once again, the Métros are seeking their third championship to equal the Highlanders' record and achieve back-to-back Sound Cups. At the same time, Halifax aims to secure their fourth Sound Cup title and solidify their legacy in ECHO history. The series is set to be a clash of titans, with top scorers like Ron White leading the Highlanders' offence and Yvan Roy leading the Métros' charge. The tension is high, the excitement palpable, as fans eagerly anticipate the showdown between these two powerhouse teams vying for hockey glory.

Who will come out on top? Predictions are welcome, as are other comments, criticisms and questions about the ECHOverse.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (3/22/2024 7:50 pm)

1955 Sound Cup Finals
Halifax Highlanders vs Montréal Métros

Game 1: Both teams were out of the gates hitting hard in the opening game with plenty of scoring opportunities early on. But, try as they might, neither team was able to capitalize on their chances. That is, until Montréal's Anthony Campbell blasted a quick wrist shot into the back of the net, putting the Métros up 1-0 midway through the first period. Halifax wasn't about to let Montréal take the lead for long, though. Highlanders center Sean Fontana matched Campbell's goal with a perfectly placed wrist shot just two minutes later. And, if that wasn't enough, Jean Tremblay took things up a notch for the Highlanders with a well-placed wrist shot that gave his team the lead, 2-1, late in the first period, after a too many men on the ice penalty was called on the Métros. Things started to get chippy towards the end of the first period when Halifax's Benoit Archambault laid a big hit on Montréal's Tristan Loubier, forcing Loubier out of the game with an injury. But that didn't slow the pace of the game down one bit. In fact, Montréal came back with a vengeance in the second period, with Kane Asper tying the game at two on the powerplay. However, Halifax wasn't about to let Montréal take control of the game, responding with a powerplay goal of their own halfway through the second period. This time, Robert Mayne was the one to slip the puck past the Métros' netminder Andy Fox, regaining the lead for the Highlanders, 3-2. Halifax's center, Sean Fontana, was on fire that night, scoring his second goal of the game early in the third period, putting the Highlanders up by two. Montréal wasn't about to go down without a fight, and rookie winger Rhys Simpson blasted a powerful slapshot into the back of the net, making it 4-3. Highlanders winger Benoit Archambault had other plans, however, quickly restoring his team's 2-goal lead with a precise wrist shot past the Métros' Andy Fox. With the clock ticking down, Halifax's Robert Mayne deflected a shot from teammate Sean Fontana into the back of the net for his second powerplay goal of the night, putting the Highlanders up 6-3. Halifax's defence held firm for the rest of the game, securing the opening win in the series.

Game 2: The game began with both teams fiercely competing to score a goal. The goaltenders, Alex Davis of Halifax and Andy Fox of Montréal were on fire, making incredible saves left and right. But, as the clock ticked down in the first period, Halifax faced not one but two penalties, giving Montréal an excellent chance to take the lead. Winger Edward Cho landed a powerful shot that soared past Davis's outstretched glove, putting the Métros up 1-0. As the second period began, Halifax came out with guns blazing, determined to even the score. Winger Paul Marchand fired a laser-quick shot that found the back of the net, tying the game at 1. But the Highlanders weren't satisfied with just one goal. Marchand struck again just a minute later, sending the crowd into a frenzy and the goals kept coming as center Robert Mayne launched a missile of a slapshot from the point, and winger Sean Fontana redirected it into the net with a beautiful deflection, making it a 3-1 game. Halifax wasn't done yet, however, and center Leonard Wilson seized the opportunity during a powerplay, hitting a precise shot that whizzed past Andy Fox and into the net, extending the lead to 4-1. Montréal, desperate to make a comeback, fought hard in the third period. Winger Murray Brissett pulled off a stunning wrist shot that shook the Highlanders' defence and sent the puck sailing past Davis, closing the gap to 4-2. But it was too little, too late. Halifax held on tight, fighting off every attack from the Métros until the final buzzer sounded, making it a 4-2 victory and a 2-0 lead in the series for the Highlanders.

Game 3: The fans were on the edge of their seats as the series moved to Montréal. The Métros were desperate to avoid a 3-0 hole in the series, but the Highlanders had other plans. In the early minutes of the 1st period, center Robert Mayne of Halifax sent a wicked wrist shot flying into the back of the net, putting the visitors ahead 1-0. The home crowd was stunned, but the Métros weren't ready to give up just yet. With a penalty against Halifax later in the period, Montréal had the perfect opportunity to strike back. And they did just that. Former Highlander Chris Davis, now a defenseman for the Métros, made his old team pay with a quick shot that sailed past netminder Alex Davis, tying the game at 1. The crowd went wild with excitement. A few minutes later, Kane Asper, the winger for Montréal, made a precise wrist shot at even strength, putting the Métros ahead 2-1. Halifax tried hard to tie the game during the second period, but the Montréal defence was solid as a rock. Early in the 3rd period, Métros winger Tristan Loubier sent a blistering wrist shot that pinged off the crossbar and into the Highlanders net, extending his team's lead to two. Later in the period, Montréal winger Murray Brissett put the icing on the cake with a precise shot in the top right corner of the net, making the score 4-1. The Métros clamped down defensively to win 4-1, putting the series at 2-1.

Game 4: The air in Montréal Arena was charged with excitement and anticipation as the two fierce teams went head-to-head in this crucial game, each determined to emerge victorious. The Highlanders came out with guns blazing in the first period, with winger Robert Mayne delivering an incredible wrist shot that sailed past the Métros' goaltender, giving Halifax an early lead. But Montréal was not prepared to surrender easily. In the second period, Métros winger Tyler Bourne responded with a ferocious wrist shot that levelled the score and sent the crowd into a frenzy. As the clock ticked down in the third period, the tension in the arena was palpable, with both teams trading blows and neither willing to back down. And then, in a moment of sheer brilliance, Montréal winger Sage Steeves unleashed a booming slapshot that flew past Halifax goaltender Alex Davis and secured a crucial 2-1 victory for the Métros, tying the series up at 2.

Game 5: Both teams came out of the gate with guns blazing in this pivotal game, creating plenty of opportunities to score. But despite their best efforts, the game remained scoreless after the first 20 minutes of play. However, early in the second period, Montréal's Edouard Lefebvre took a roughing penalty that proved costly. Halifax winger Paul Marchand seized the opportunity and blasted the puck into the back of the net, giving the visiting team a 1-0 lead. The Highlanders kept the momentum going, and a few minutes later, winger Benoit Archambault made it 2-0 with a quick wrist shot that left Métros' goalie Andy Fox stunned. Halifax tightened their defensive game to protect their lead, but Montréal refused to back down. Late in the 3rd period, the Métros managed to get one back thanks to a well-placed wrist shot from winger Kane Asper. Unfortunately for them, however, the Highlanders were not going to let their lead slip away. In the waning minutes of the 3rd period, on a powerplay, defenseman Jean Tremblay restored Halifax's 2-goal lead with a thunderous shot that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The final horn sounded, and the Highlanders emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, taking a 3-2 lead in the series.

Game 6: The stakes were high as the two teams made their way back to Montreal for the most crucial game of the series. The Métros were well aware that a loss would crush their chances at the Sound Cup, so they wasted no time attacking Halifax's netminder, Alex Davis, with all they had. But the veteran goalie was a force to be reckoned with, and he refused to budge. The Highlanders weren't about to let the Métros have all the fun, and they soon peppered the Montréal net with shots of their own. Then, late in the first period, winger Charlie Ellis seized the opportunity and sent a wrist shot flying into the back of the net, putting Halifax up 1-0. Barely a minute later, winger Robert Mayne followed suit with a quick wrist shot of his own, making it 2-0 for Halifax. The Highlanders' dominance continued early in the second period after the Métros took another penalty. Defenseman Stanley Blackwood saw his chance and blasted the puck past netminder Andy Fox, putting his team up by 3. And just a few minutes later, Robert Mayne struck again, making it 4-0. Things went from bad to worse for Montréal late in the second period when Charlie Ellis scored on his rebound, putting Halifax up 5-0. The Métros managed to get one back midway through the third period thanks to Édouard Lefebvre, but the damage had already been done. After Highlanders center William MacDougall scored another powerplay goal in the last minute of the game, making it 6-1, Halifax celebrated their fourth Sound Cup triumph in eight seasons, and the pro-Métros crowd was left in stunned silence.



1955 Sound Cup Champions: Halifax Highlanders (4)



That's a wrap on the first ten seasons of ECHO. What did you think of this Sound Cup final and the inaugural decade of ECHO? As usual, comments, criticisms, and questions about the ECHOverse are appreciated.
 

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (3/16/2024 5:15 pm)

1955 ECHO Awards

Playoffs MVP - C Sean Fontana (HFX)
Fontana was the 1955 Sound Cup Playoffs MVP due to his outstanding performance throughout the playoffs. He scored five goals, including the game-winning goal in Game 1 of the finals, and ten assists to lead all players in points with 15.

MVP — C Doug Fournier (CHA)
Fournier's exceptional skills earned him his first MVP award for his remarkable 73-point season. He proved to be an invaluable asset to the Monarchs, and his dedication and discipline paid off with this prestigious award, cementing his position as one of the best players in the league.

Defensive Player of the Year — D Robert Leblanc (FRE)
Leblanc's outstanding performance has earned him his 2nd consecutive DPOY award. He had a phenomenal season where he led the league with a whopping 175 hits and was a close 2nd in takeaways.

Defensive Forward of the Year — C William MacDougall (HFX)
Jacques Tremblay had held the DFOY award since 1951, but this year, the award was finally given to someone else, namely William MacDougall, who was recognized for his outstanding performance on the ice, which included 77 hits, 43 blocks and 29 takeaways. His consistent performance throughout the season made him a clear choice for the award.

Goalie of the Year — G Emmett O’Leary (TRV)
The 24-year-old O'Leary won his fourth consecutive GOY award after he completely dominated the league this season with his incredible .924 save percentage and 2.37 goals against average. Even though he didn't have the most wins, his outstanding performance in these categories was more than enough to earn him the prestigious award.

Rookie of the Year — W Egidus Provencher (FRE)
Provencher's remarkable performance throughout the season has earned him the coveted Rookie of the Year award. With his exceptional skills, he outshone all his fellow rookies, scoring 17 goals and accumulating 41 points.

What are your thoughts on these awards? As usual, comments, criticisms, and questions about the ECHOverse are very much appreciated.

Introducing the Bathurst Phantoms

At a prestigious event held at the Bathurst Civic Centre, the exclusive venue for the new ECHO franchise, owner James Wilson commands the attention of the gathering from behind a distinguished podium set on a platform, where mysterious shapes hide behind velvet curtains.

In his opening address, Wilson shares the vision behind the team's name, emphasizing Bathurst's deep-rooted history and folklore interwoven with the resilient spirit of unity. With a sense of pride, he reveals the chosen moniker for their ECHO team—the Bathurst Phantoms.

With an air of anticipation, he beckons for the curtains to unveil the official team logo and colours. The crowd is met with a captivating sight - a logo comprised of a bold red ship's wheel outlined in stark black, crowned by a bone-white skull sporting a crimson B outlined in black on its forehead. Wilson elaborates on the colour scheme, red, bone-white, and black, paying homage to the enduring mystique of Bathurst's legendary tales.



As the curtains draw back once more, the audience is treated to the unveiling of the team's jerseys. The striking home jersey showcases a bone-white B boldly outlined in black against a striking red background, accentuated by three stripes on the sleeves and hem - two prominent black stripes flanking a sleek bone-white one. The away jersey, in stark contrast, features the red B outlined in black on bone-white fabric, with red stripes replacing the black ones and the sleek bone-white stripe now black.



In his concluding statement, Wilson expressed great enthusiasm, stating, "We are honoured to be part of the ECHO and to represent the vibrant city of Bathurst proudly. The Bathurst Phantoms are fully prepared to leave a significant mark in the league and are positioned to excel in the competition. We look forward to the unwavering support of our dedicated fans every step of the way. Let us unite our voices and cheer for the Phantoms!"

What do you think of the Phantoms? The unveiling of the other expansion team should also be soon. As usual, comments, criticisms, and questions about the ECHOverse are very much appreciated.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (3/29/2024 4:36 pm)