Acadia’s Boudreau sisters spoil Panthers home opener with 2-0 win

By Thomas Becker

Sisters Jenna and Jayden Boudreau each recorded a goal to carry the Acadia Axewomen past the UPEI Panthers 2-0.

It was the first time the pair scored in the same game, as their team improved to 2-0.

"We were saying this year, because we both play up front, that we have to make some magic happen and today we did." 

Led by the potent duo, the Axewomen were consistent in their attack and never let up with UPEI keeper, Amanda Stanyer, getting the brunt of it. 

Just 10 minutes in, Stanyer was forced to make a sliding save and followed that up with another save to keep the game scoreless early.

But it was only a matter of time before the pressure resulted in a goal and in the 29th minute, Acadia made it count. After Holly Buckler sent a pass to the five-yard box, Jenna centred the ball to Jayden who curled it in for the 1-0 lead. 

"More than anything, I get excited for her when she does anything well," said Jenna, who was named the Subway Player of the Game.

Acadia dominated possession and fired off 11 shots to UPEI's one in the opening half, yet Jenna was quick to acknowledge the Panthers' strong defence, led by centre backs Danielle Younker and Jennifer Balderston. 

"The biggest thing in games like this is staying composed," she said. "It was tough getting through their backline, so it took a lot of movement and a lot of small tactics."

The Axewomen continued where they left off and in the opening minutes of the second half, Jenna connected on a low shot after Grace Longley sprung her loose with a great through pass.

"She's very difficult for defenders to deal with," said head coach Amit Batra of his fifth-year striker. "She has good awareness and it shows why she was a First-Team All-Canadian last year."

Acadia had chance to extend the lead in a 64th-minute scramble in front of the net, but Stanyer continued her strong play and pounced on the ball before a shot was attempted. 

While the visitors' defence certainly played a part in the result, the Panthers' offence remained stagnant for a third straight game, as they continue to search for answers on that end of the field. 

They'll have a chance to turn things around on Sunday when they travel to Fredericton for a date with the UNB Reds. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.

Photo Credit: Janessa Hogan