The Ducs d’Angers have triumphed in the semifinals of the Ligue Magnus playoffs, showcasing their exceptional form as they defeated the Boxers de Bordeaux in a thrilling series. Winning all four matches, Angers secured their spot in the final after a close 2-1 victory on March 19, 2025.
In their latest encounter at Bordeaux, Angers hit the ground running as Brady Shaw scored just 46 seconds into the game, taking advantage of a loose puck. Shaw, who had already proven crucial throughout the season, symbolized the spirit of his team as he opened the scoring early. The momentum swung firmly in Angers’ favor when Matthew Prapavessis, during a power play, managed to double the lead in the 11th minute. His stunning solo effort left the Bordeaux defense bewildered, making it 2-0.
Despite falling behind, the Boxers, eager to salvage their season, responded with a goal by Kevin Dusseau at the 15-minute mark, pulling one back for the hosts. However, the Angers’ defense, led by Matt O’Connor, proved resilient, with O’Connor making an impressive 37 saves throughout the match.
Angers' strong defense proved pivotal throughout the series, with each game contested fiercely, ultimately decided by a single goal margin. They demonstrated their clutch play in crucial moments, finishing the series against Bordeaux with an impressive 4-0 record.
As a result, Angers now prepares for their sixth finale since 2010, a critical moment poised to solidify their position in Ligue Magnus history. Previously, they faced tough defeats against Rouen and Briançon in their past appearances during prior finals. Although they aim for their first national title, the Ducs had recently hoisted the Coupe de France trophy after their victory against Grenoble just a month ago, a promising sign of their current form.
In another semifinal matchup, Grenoble faced off against Amiens and emerged victorious with a staggering score of 7-1 on the same day. Rudy Matima scored early in the third minute for Grenoble, igniting what would become a dominant performance. Damien Fleury and Kyle Hardy both added to the scoreline before the explosive Chrisophe Boivin stepped on the ice, essentially sealing the fate of Amiens with a hat trick in just five minutes. By the time Aurélien Dair and captain Sacha Treille added to the tally, the outcome was all but decided. With the win, Grenoble leads their series against Amiens three games to one, needing just one more victory to secure their finals appearance and a shot at facing the Ducs.
The upcoming match for Grenoble, match five against Amiens, will be held on March 22, 2025. Should they require it, game six is scheduled for March 24, while game seven, if necessary, will take place on March 26. Angers will eagerly await the outcome, hoping to learn their opponents for the grand finale.
After their disappointing exit from the competition, the Boxers de Bordeaux finished a solid season in third place during the regular season. Coach Olivier Dimet expressed disappointment post-game, lamenting the close margins in the series, remarking, “It’s a question of centimeters at this level, a puck that hits the post and goes out, or one that hits the post and goes in.” Captain Loik Poudrier echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating, “There’s a bit of magic and opportunism missing that could have turned the games around for us.” Despite their elimination, both the coach and players acknowledged their achievements this season and expressed optimism for the future.
The Ducs’ path to the final marks an incredible milestone, and as they gear up for a showdown against either Grenoble or Amiens, expectations run high for the Angers team. Displaying consistency, skill, and determination, they are ready to seize their chance at championship glory.
