Gilbert Perreault still recalls facing off against Rene Robert for the first time while playing for opposing teams in the Quebec Junior League in 1966. Little did the two realize they would eventually form two-thirds of the Buffalo Sabresâ famed âFrench Connection Lineâ some six years later, and establish a friendship that would last a lifetime. âWe had so many good years together,â Perreault told The Associated Press by phone on Wednesday. âI was glad to be his friend for so many years, and very glad to play hockey with him for so many years. But being his friend was special.â