Matthew Robertson Scores First NHL Goal in Rangers' Comeback Victory

In a thrilling matchup on Saturday night, the New York Rangers overcame an early two-goal deficit to defeat the Montreal Canadiens 4-3 at the Bell Centre. The game marked a significant milestone for defenseman Matthew Robertson, who scored his first NHL goal, contributing to the Rangers' comeback. The victory improved the Rangers' record to 3-0-1 on the road this season.

Rangers 4-3 Canadiens (19 Oct, 2025) Game RecapNewsdayNewsdayAthabasca Advocate

The Canadiens initially took control of the game, with Juraj Slafkovsky and Nick Suzuki scoring within the first four minutes to establish a 2-0 lead. However, the Rangers responded with a power-play goal from Mika Zibanejad, followed by a flurry of scoring in the third period. J.T. Miller tied the game at 2-2 just seconds after a power play, and Robertson's one-timer from the blue line at 4:11 of the third period gave the Rangers a 3-2 lead. Artemi Panarin extended the lead to 4-2 shortly after, solidifying the Rangers' position before Noah Dobson's late goal for Montreal.

Rangers 4-3 Canadiens (19 Oct, 2025) Game RecapNewsdayNewsday

Matthew Robertson, a second-round draft pick in 2019, has faced a long road to the NHL, spending significant time in the American Hockey League (AHL) before making his debut last season. After an injury to teammate Carson Soucy opened a spot on the roster, Robertson seized the opportunity, averaging 17:17 of ice time in his first four games this season. His performance has garnered praise from head coach Mike Sullivan, who noted Robertson's resilience and maturity, especially after he rebounded from an early mistake that led to Montreal's first goal.

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Robertson expressed his excitement about scoring his first NHL goal, stating, “It means everything. It’s something you dreamed of doing, from a little kid, scoring in the NHL.” His goal not only marked a personal achievement but also contributed to the team's success in a crucial game.

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Coach Mike Sullivan commended Robertson's performance, highlighting his ability to maintain confidence despite early setbacks. Sullivan remarked, “What I loved about it is just his response... he was competing hard.” Teammate Braden Schneider also praised Robertson, noting his long journey and development as a player.

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Despite the Rangers' victory, Canadiens goaltender Samuel Montembeault took responsibility for the loss, stating, “I will take a lot of the blame. I need to be better.” His captain, Nick Suzuki, and head coach Martin St. Louis, however, defended Montembeault, emphasizing the need for the team to improve their defensive play in front of him.

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The Rangers will host the Minnesota Wild in their next game, where they may welcome back Carson Soucy from injured reserve. Meanwhile, the Canadiens will look to regroup as they prepare to face the Buffalo Sabres.

Rangers 4-3 Canadiens (19 Oct, 2025) Game Recap

• “It was unbelievable. Hockey Night in Canada is something I grew up watching as a kid,” — Matthew Robertson, Rangers Defenseman

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• “I thought, just watching him play the rest of the game, he was competing hard.” — Mike Sullivan, Rangers Head Coach

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• “I will take a lot of the blame,” — Samuel Montembeault, Canadiens Goaltender

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• “It was a different game after we took the penalty,” St.” — Martin St. Louis, Canadiens Head Coach

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