1957 Sound Cup Playoffs (1st Round)

Trois-Rivières Tigres vs Quebec Reds
In Game 1, both teams came out swinging, creating scoring opportunities and racking up penalties. The Tigres seized the lead late in the 1st period as winger Chris Postl's pinpoint wrist shot eluded Quebec's goalie, William Parker. The Reds quickly answered back, with winger Stephen Muller showcasing his skill with a well-placed wrist shot, evening the score just before the intermission. The intensity of the game reached a fever pitch in the second period as Trois-Rivières, despite being outshot, saw Éric Renaud unleash a booming slapshot, putting the defending champions up 2-1. The game took a twist when Timmy Overton of Trois-Rivières was sent to the penalty box early in the third period, which resulted in a crucial powerplay goal from Reds center Gabriel Caron, tying the game at 2-2. Midway through the 3rd period, Quebec surged ahead 3-2, with center Sean Fontana capitalizing on his rebound to send the puck past Emmett O'Leary. This goal turned out to be the game-winner as Quebec claimed a 3-2 win to take the lead in the series.

In Game 2, the tension continued as the two teams battled physically. Near the middle of the first period, Trois-Rivières winger Francis Kanuk scored with a wrist shot, putting the defending champs up 1-0 against Quebec. Later in the first period, Kanuk took a penalty while on the powerplay, and the Reds capitalized just after their man was released from the penalty box. Defenseman Anthony Campbell beat Tigres netminder Emmett O'Leary with a quick and well-placed shot to tie the game at 1. The second period was almost scoreless, but in the last minute, Quebec center Hank Rodriguez scored, putting the underdogs up 2-1. Trois-Rivières attempted to get back into the game. However, midway through the third period, Reds defenseman Edouard Lécuyer made it 3-1 with a quick wrist shot off the left post. After that, Quebec strengthened defensively and won 3-1, sending the defending champs home early in a surprising sweep. (QUE wins 2-0)

Cape Breton Islanders vs Charlottetown Monarchs
In the opening period of Game 1, the Islanders and Monarchs generated numerous scoring chances while also racking up several penalties. Despite the high intensity of the game, neither team managed to find the back of the net in the first 20 minutes, mainly due to the exceptional goaltending performances of Charlottetown's Peter Chiasson and Cape Breton's David Buck, who made some outstanding saves to keep the game scoreless. In the early stages of the second period, Charlottetown managed to score. While on the powerplay, winger Ken Chang gained possession of the puck in the corner of the Cape Breton zone and skated toward the net. He then released a swift wrist shot, aiming for the space between Islanders goaltender David Buck's glove and the post. The puck lightly hit the post before going into the net, giving the Monarchs a 1-0 lead. Midway through the second period, Charlottetown winger James Bailey would unleash a powerful slapshot from the blue line and beat netminder David Buck to put the Monarchs up by two and then late in the 2nd period, a well-placed shot from defenseman Benoit Cote would make it 3-0 for Charlottetown. Midway through the third period, a few minutes after a hit from Charlottetown's Geoffrey Jeffries on Cape Breton's Fred Twist that forced the Islanders winger out of the contest, Cape Breton would finally reply with defenseman Léonce Dupond wristing the puck past Monarchs netminder Peter Chiasson to make it 3-1. Charlottetown would clamp up defensively after that to take the win and the opening lead in the series. After the game, the Isles revealed that Fred Twist would miss the rest of the series and potentially the divisional finals should they advance.

Game 2 started with Charlottetown absolutely dominating Cape Breton in the shot column, which would eventually lead to the first goal of the game when Monarchs winger Arthur Laroche took a slapshot which was deflected by Islanders goalie David Buck right back to Laroche, who buried the rebound to put the home team up 1-0. Early in the second period, Charlottetown's Jacques Tremblay would take a penalty that would end up being very costly as on the following powerplay, Cape Breton winger Noah Boyd would beat Monarchs netminder Peter Chiasson with a quick wrist shot to tie the game at 1. After that, the two teams didn't allow another goal for the rest of the regulation, and we would need overtime at Monarch Arena. A few minutes into the overtime period, the Islanders were in the offensive zone, and center Norman Campbell passed it back to defenseman Sully Morrison, who stepped up and fired the puck past netminder Peter Chiasson's glove to give Cape Breton the win and force a winner-takes-all game 3.

Game 3 of the series unfolded with intense back-and-forth action as both Cape Breton and Charlottetown fought for the right to advance to the divisional round in this winner-takes-all showdown. The first period saw Cape Breton take an early lead. With just over 1 minute remaining in the opening frame, the Islanders' Salamarice Deslauriers delivered a precise wrist shot that found its way past Monarchs goalie Peter Chiasson, giving Cape Breton a 1-0 advantage. The second period featured a strong push from Charlottetown as they looked to even the score. Their perseverance paid off early in the period. With just under 3 minutes played, the Monarchs' James Bailey capitalized on a rebound opportunity, beating Cape Breton's netminder David Buck to tie the game at 1-1. However, Cape Breton responded with urgency. Late in the second period, with just over 1 minute remaining, the Islanders were awarded a powerplay. Ward Wilkerson took full advantage, firing a powerful slapshot that sailed past Peter Chiasson, giving Cape Breton a 2-1 lead. As the game moved into the third period, both teams fought hard, but neither could find the back of the net. Cape Breton's defence held firm against Charlottetown's relentless pressure, and despite several close calls, the score remained 2-1 until the final buzzer as Cape Breton would move on to the divisional finals with the win. (CB wins 2-1)



What's your take on the first round ? Any guesses on which teams will battle it out in the Sound Cup Finals? Share your predictions and your feedback, critiques, and any questions about the ECHOverse.

ItDoesntMatter wrote:

good on the reds and isles. glad to see some of the historical have-nots getting the job done. also fun to see a couple of my guys featured in there, even if one of them only showed up to injure a guy

It's funny you mention one of your guys injured a guy, considering that both players in that collision were yours.
 

1957 Sound Cup Playoffs (Divisional Finals)

Fredericton Stars vs Cape Breton Islanders
In a heart-pounding Game 1 between the Fredericton Stars and the Cape Breton Islanders, the excitement was palpable right from the initial faceoff. The Cape Breton Islanders struck first, with Sully Morrison seizing on a rebound in a chaotic crease. His quick reaction put the Islanders ahead 1-0. Moments later, they extended their lead when Sal Deslauriers unleashed a powerful wrist shot during a power play, beating Fredericton goalie Stanley Fraser and making it a 2 goal lead. Determined not to fall behind, the Fredericton Stars came out with renewed vigour in the second period. Gideon Irving managed to score with a clever deflection, redirecting the puck past Cape Breton netminder David Buck and narrowing the gap to 2-1. Shortly after, Egidus Provencher made his mark by capitalizing on a juicy rebound in front of the net, tying the game at 2. The Islanders responded with another surge, reclaiming the lead with a second power-play goal from Ward Wilkerson. His precise shot put Cape Breton back in front, 3-2. Fredericton, however, showed impressive resilience. Provencher struck once again, this time scoring a pivotal short-handed goal that levelled the score at 3. The third period was a dramatic rollercoaster. Éloi Saint-Amour gave the Stars their first lead of the game with a well-placed wrist shot, pushing Fredericton ahead 4-3. Cape Breton's Charles Morin wasn't to be outdone; he quickly answered with a wrist shot of his own, evening the score once again. The tension was thick as the game neared its conclusion. Fredericton's Charles Bruneau emerged as a hero, scoring with a gritty rebound shot that put the Stars ahead 5-4. In the final minutes, Robert Leblanc sealed the victory with a thunderous slapshot that sailed past Cape Breton's David Buck, securing a 6-4 win for Fredericton and the opening lead in the series.

Cape Breton got to work early in Game 2, as barely 30 seconds in, winger Robert Jones fired a wrist shot past Fredericton netminder Stanley Fraser to give his team a 1-0 lead. Fredericton responded quickly, with Frank Kane tying the game at 1-1 just 3 minutes later with a sharp wrist shot that beat Cape Breton's David Buck. The second period saw Fredericton take control. At the 13-minute mark, defenseman Robert Leblanc unleashed a powerful wrist shot from just inside the blue line, giving Fredericton a 2-1 lead. Barely 2 minutes later, Charles Bruneau capitalized on a power play, slamming home a rebound to extend the lead. The Stars kept the pressure on, and 3 minutes later, Cassius Robitaille added another goal with a precise wrist shot from the slot, making it 4-1. With 6 minutes left in the period, Egidus Provencher fired a blistering slapshot from the top of the faceoff circle, pushing Fredericton's lead to 5-1. In the third period, Fredericton continued their dominance. At the 12-minute mark, Gideon Irving scored during a power play with a wrist shot that made it 6-1. Four minutes later, Éloi Saint-Amour added another power-play goal, extending the lead to 7-1. Despite their efforts, Cape Breton couldn't close the gap. Fredericton's defence held firm, and Stanley Fraser made vital saves. The game ended with a 7-1 victory for Fredericton, giving them a commanding 2-0 lead in the series.

In Game 3 of the series, the Stars delivered a commanding performance. The first period showcased Fredericton's dominance. 5 minutes in, Cassius Robitaille opened the scoring with a sharp shot that beat Cape Breton's goaltender. The Stars continued to press their advantage, and just 8 minutes later, Egidus Provencher added another goal. Positioned near the slot, Provencher fired a precise shot into the net, extending Fredericton's lead to 2-0. The Stars' power play unit made their presence felt as well. With just under 4 minutes remaining in the period, Robert Leblanc scored from the point, thanks to a well-placed shot following a solid setup by his teammates. The goal pushed Fredericton's lead to 3-0. Moments later, another power play opportunity saw Robert MacDonald capitalize with a shot from the edge of the crease, making it 4-0 as the period neared its end. In the second period, Cape Breton sought to mount a comeback. Early in the period, Charles Morin finally got the Islanders on the board with a wrist shot during a power play, cutting Fredericton's lead to 4-1. Despite Cape Breton's goal, Fredericton maintained their control, holding firm to their 3-goal lead until the final horn when they would clinch their spot in the Sound Cup Finals with the sweep of the Islanders. (FRE wins 3-0)

Montréal Métros vs Quebec Reds
As the two rivals met in the playoffs for the first time since 1950, the atmosphere was electric for Game 1. Fans packed the stands, their cheers and jeers echoing off the walls as Montréal and Quebec clashed on the ice. The game was fierce from the start, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. About 5 minutes into the first period, the Métros broke the deadlock with winger Jean Sirois beating Reds goaltender William Parker's blocker side with a quick wrist shot. The Reds responded swiftly as just 6 minutes later, 2nd-year winger Bastian Nachtnebel evened the score with a wrist shot of his own, which found its way past Métros goalie Ray Young, drawing loud cheers from the Quebec supporters and signalling that this game was far from over. In the second period, the action continued at a blistering pace. The Métros, determined to regain their earlier advantage, pressed hard against the Reds. With just 5 minutes remaining in the period, Yvan Roy seized a crucial opportunity. Roy, showing great composure and precision, fired a wrist shot past William Parker, giving Montréal the 2-1 lead. As the third period got underway, the tension on the ice was palpable. The Métros, holding a narrow lead, were determined to secure their position. Just 2 minutes into the period, Yvan Roy struck again, this time capitalizing on a well-executed play and unleashing another powerful shot that found the back of the net, extending Montréal's lead to 3-1. With just 2 minutes remaining in the game, the Reds made a last-ditch effort to turn the tide. Jules Henry, demonstrating sharp focus and precision, took a crucial shot that beat Métros goaltender Ray Young, narrowing the score to 3-2, then in an incredible turn of events, just 20 seconds after Henry's goal, Quebec winger Roy Davies unleashed a wrist shot that sailed into the back of the Montréal net tying the game at 3. In a dramatic overtime period, with just 4 minutes left on the clock, the Reds' Jules Henry took control of the puck near the blue line. He calmly maneuvered around a Métros defender, creating some space. As Henry approached the net, he spotted a clear shooting lane. With a swift, precise wrist shot, he sent the puck past the diving Montréal goalie, Ray Young, the puck sailing into the top corner of the net, clinching Game 1 in favour of Quebec.

In Game 2 of the series, the excitement was palpable as the Montréal Métros and the Quebec Reds battled fiercely on the ice. The first period saw a crucial moment with just 3 minutes remaining on the clock. Bastian Nachtnebel of the Reds made a significant impact with a critical play. Positioned at the top of the faceoff circle, Nachtnebel took a decisive shot. His swift, accurate wrist shot sailed past Montréal's goaltender, Ray Young and nestled into the far corner of the net. This well-executed goal gave Quebec a 1-0 lead and energized their supporters, setting a high-stakes tone for the rest of the game. As the second period began, Montréal showed their resolve. The Métros, determined to level the score, ramped up their offensive efforts. Midway through the period, their persistence paid off. Jean Sirois, who had been positioning himself strategically, received the puck near the slot. With a blend of precision and power, Sirois took a quick wrist shot that beat Quebec's goaltender, William Parker. The puck soared past Parker and crashed into the back of the net, drawing the score level at 1-1. The goal was a turning point for Montréal, reinvigorating their gameplay and ramping up the intensity of the match. The tension was palpable as both teams sought to break the deadlock in the 3rd period. Montréal capitalized on a crucial power play opportunity early in the period. At the 4-minute mark, center Yvan Roy seized his moment. Positioned at the top of the circle, Roy received the puck and, with a precise aim and a quick release, fired a wrist shot. The puck streaked through the air and found its mark in the top corner of the net, surpassing Quebec's goaltender William Parker and giving Montréal a 2-1 lead. This goal was a testament to Roy's skill and composure under pressure. The remainder of the game saw both teams fighting hard, but Montréal's defence held strong. The Métros managed to preserve their slim lead, securing a 2-1 victory and tying the series at 1

As the series switched to Quebec City for Game 3, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Early in the first period, Montréal made a strong statement. At the 8-minute mark, winger Edward Cho unleashed a powerful slapshot from the blue line. The puck cut through traffic and found the back of the net, beating Quebec's goaltender William Parker and giving Montréal a 1-0 lead. The second period saw Montréal continue their aggressive play. Just 2 minutes in, the Métros extended their lead. Winger Jean Sirois, positioned near the top of the circle, received a pass and took a quick shot. The puck beat Parker cleanly, finding the back of the net and putting Montréal up by 2. In the third period, Montréal capitalized on a power play opportunity. At the 5-minute mark, center Yvan Roy, stationed at the point, took a booming slapshot. The puck whizzed past Parker and into the net, extending Montréal's lead to 3-0. The Métros further solidified their advantage 2 minutes later when winger Edouard Lefebvre, positioned in the slot, received a pass and quickly fired a wrist shot. The puck sailed past Quebec netminder William Parker and into the net, bringing Montréal's lead up to 4 goals. Just 2 minutes later, Montréal added another goal. Yvan Roy, showing remarkable precision, took a wrist shot from the top of the circle, and the puck beat Parker to find the back of the net, extending the lead to 5-0 with Roy's second of the night. As the game neared its end, Montréal continued their dominance. With 3 minutes left on the clock, Edouard Lefebvre struck again. This time, from the high slot, Lefebvre unleashed a wrist shot that flew past Parker and into the top corner of the net. The goal sealed the game at 6-0 as Ray Young made 29 saves in the shutout to give Montréal the 2-1 series lead.

Game 4 of the series was a showcase of skill and strategy, punctuated by explosive plays and precise execution. From the first puck drop, the Métros demonstrated their intent to dominate, opening the scoring within the first minute. Tristan Loubier rocketed a slapshot past the Reds' William Parker, thanks to a slick assist from Edouard Lefebvre, setting the tone for what would be a thrilling contest. As the game progressed, the intensity on the ice ramped up. The second period saw the Métros solidify their lead with Edward Cho's crisp wrist shot finding the net early in the period. However, the Reds showed their resilience, narrowing the gap with Darren Bennett's wrist shot, beating Montréal netminder Ray Young to cut the lead in half. Undeterred, the Métros answered swiftly. Tristan Loubier, having a standout game, netted another with a wrist shot that sailed into the goal, bolstering the Métros' lead to two goals once more. The third period saw Yvan Roy capitalizing on a rebound early and firing the puck home to give Montréal a 4-1 lead. The Métros dominance would continue, and late in the third period, winger Rhys Simpson would score an empty netter, and then center Edouard Lefebvre would add insult to injury by scoring to complete the 6-1 Montréal victory and eliminate Quebec in 4 games to give the Métros their 3rd Sound Cup Finals appearance in the past four years (MTM wins 3-1)



1957 Sound Cup Finals Preview
The 1957 Sound Cup Finals promise an exhilarating showdown between the Fredericton Stars and the Montréal Métros, two powerhouse teams that have demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill throughout the playoffs. Fredericton enters the finals with a clean sweep over the Cape Breton Islanders, showcasing a potent mix of offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Players like Cassius Robitaille and Egidus Provencher have been instrumental, consistently finding the back of the net and maintaining pressure on their opponents. Meanwhile, Montréal's path to the finals saw them eliminate the Quebec Reds in four games, highlighted by standout performances from Yvan Roy and Edouard Lefebvre. The Métros have displayed a well-rounded game, with solid goaltending from Ray Young and a formidable offensive lineup capable of capitalizing on any opportunity. As these two titans clash, you can expect a series filled with intensity, strategic battles, and electrifying moments as both teams vie for the coveted Sound Cup.

Any thoughts on the divisional finals? Any guesses on which team will lift the Sound Cup? Share your predictions and your feedback, critiques, and any questions about the ECHOverse.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (7/24/2024 9:39 pm)

1957 ECHO Awards

Playoffs MVP — C Yvan Roy (MTM)
Roy made history by becoming the first player to win the Playoffs MVP award a second time in the history of the ECHO. His outstanding playoff performance was highlighted by eight goals, leading all players, and seven assists, ranking him third. With a total of 15 points, Roy was the top scorer and a driving force behind the Métros' playoff success. His clutch performances and leadership on the ice were pivotal in guiding his team through the postseason challenges and, ultimately, lifting the Sound Cup.

MVP — C Edouard Lefebvre (MTM)
Lefebvre clinched the Most Valuable Player award for the second time, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency throughout the season. With 31 goals and 47 assists, he amassed a total of 78 points, proving himself to be an indispensable asset to his team. His leadership and offensive prowess were crucial factors in Montréal's success, making him a standout choice for this prestigious honour.

Defensive Player of the Year — D Arthur Tremblay (MTM)
For the second consecutive year, Tremblay was awarded the Defensive Player of the Year award. His remarkable defensive capabilities were highlighted by 53 takeaways and an impressive 201 hits, underscoring his role as a cornerstone of the team's defence. Tremblay's tenacity and strategic play were crucial in neutralizing opposing offences and maintaining the Métros’ defensive strength.

Defensive Forward of the Year — C William MacDougall (TRV)
MacDougall earned the title of Defensive Forward of the Year for the second time in three years, further cementing his reputation as a defensive stalwart. With 42 takeaways and 83 hits, MacDougall's contributions were vital in shutting down opponents and transitioning to offence. Notably, he became the third player to win the same award with two different teams, following in the footsteps of Simon St-Pierre (DPOY with Montréal and Fredericton) and Emmett O'Leary (GOY with Moncton and Trois-Rivières).

Goalie of the Year — G Emmett O’Leary (TRV)
O'Leary's dominance between the pipes continued as he claimed the Goalie of the Year award for an unprecedented sixth consecutive time. With a stellar 2.00 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage, O'Leary's performances were consistently elite. His ability to make crucial saves under pressure was a cornerstone of Trois-Rivières' defensive strategy, making him an irreplaceable part of the team's success.

Rookie of the Year — W Alain Turcotte (SHE)
Turcotte burst onto the scene for his hometown team and captured the Rookie of the Year award with an impressive debut season. Scoring 13 goals and providing 24 assists for a total of 37 points, Turcotte demonstrated his potential as a rising star. His agility and scoring ability added a dynamic element to the team's offence, marking him as a critical player to watch in the future.

What is your opinion on the awards? I would appreciate any feedback, critiques, and questions you may have about the ECHOverse. I am also interested in prospects for the ECHO draft, so feel free to send them my way. I am looking for prospects for every position.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (8/03/2024 8:11 pm)

1957 ECHO Brand Changes

Quebec Reds
The Reds have again changed the front of their jerseys, reintroducing their Q and fleur de lis logo and replacing the diagonal text. However, the striping remains the same.


Previous Set (1953-57)

Fredericton Stars
The Stars have decided to change the jersey striping by making the bigger stripe yellow and the smaller stripes white on the home jersey and black for the away jersey. Additionally, they have incorporated a star in the middle of the sleeve stripes and changed the number on the back of the away jersey to yellow with a black border.


Previous Set (1950-1957)

Moncton Generals
Moncton made a bold decision to revamp its logo this offseason. While the gold maple leaf remains a central feature, it is now positioned behind a striking green M.


The overall design of the jerseys remains essentially unchanged, with the new logo seamlessly replacing the old one. Additionally, a green variant of the logo featuring a gold M has been developed for the away jersey.


Previous set (1945-1957)

What are your thoughts on the brand changes? I'd love to hear your feedback, critiques, and any questions you have about the ECHOverse. Of course, I still need prospects for the draft, and I need every single position.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (8/15/2024 12:37 am)