With six CNPL rookies in the fold for the 2024 season, GM Jay Devilliers' Montreal Lions got off to a hot start, winning six and losing three in the Eastern Split.
The rookie-heavy Lions surprised many with their strong performance, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with heading into the playoffs.
Rookie Stars Lead the Way
First overall draft pick Ernesto Fajardo debuted with an outstanding 12-6 won-loss record across all nine matches, earning three Player of the Match awards along the way.
Third overall selection Louis-Charles Amyot had an equally impressive tournament, posting a 13-5 record in nine matches and claiming one Player of the Match honor.
Eleventh overall pick Jade Cassandra Laporte held her own with a 9-9 record and one Player of the Match award, while Anne-Sophie Courteau (6th overall) finished 8-10 with a Player of the Match performance.
Strong Start and Finish
The Lions opened the Eastern Split with a statement, earning a convincing 3-1 victory over the defending champion Toronto United.
They closed out the tournament on a high note, securing a tight 3-2 triumph against the East Toronto Smash, who finished the split with a 4-5 record.
Depth Players Await Their Moment
While the top picks carried the load, Mathieu Morneau (26th pick) and Antoaneta Toskova (18th selection) didn't see action during the Eastern Split but remain valuable depth pieces for the Lions moving forward.
The Montreal Lions' 6-3 Eastern Split performance proved that their rookie-heavy approach could compete with the league's established teams, setting up an exciting playoff run for the young franchise.