AFC Toronto ended Vancouver Rise FC’s eight-game unbeaten streak with a 7-0 win at BMO Field, shaking up the Northern Super League standings.
Undefeated Streak Snapped
Vancouver Rise FC’s impressive eight-game unbeaten streak came to a dramatic end on Saturday, September 13, when they suffered a 7-0 defeat against AFC Toronto at BMO Field. The lopsided result marked the Rise’s first loss of the Northern Super League season.
A Difficult Match in Toronto
Despite controlling possession 51 percent of the match, Vancouver struggled to generate scoring opportunities, managing just one shot on target out of eight attempts. In contrast, AFC Toronto dominated offensively, recording 25 shots, including 15 on goal.
Key Moments on the Pitch
Toronto struck early when Esther Okoronkwo opened the scoring in the sixth minute. Kylee Hunter doubled the lead just before halftime in stoppage time, and Kaela Hansen quickly added a third moments later. Vancouver’s hopes dimmed further when attacker Jessica De Filippo was sent off in the 52nd minute after receiving a second yellow card. Playing a man down, the Rise conceded four more goals, including a second from Okoronkwo and late tallies by Hunter and Jade Kovacevic.
Why the Loss Matters
The defeat tightened the race at the top of the Northern Super League table. Vancouver remains in second place with 32 points, while AFC Toronto strengthened their hold on first with 41 points. The match was the final meeting between the two clubs this season, giving Toronto the decisive edge in the head-to-head rivalry.
League Context and Expansion
The Northern Super League, Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league, is in its inaugural season. Alongside Vancouver Rise and AFC Toronto, the league features Calgary Wild FC, Halifax Tides FC, Montréal Roses, and Ottawa Rapid FC. The top four clubs will qualify for the semifinals, leading to the league final on November 15 at BMO Field. Earlier this week, the NSL announced plans to expand with a seventh team for the 2027 season.
What’s Next for Vancouver
Vancouver Rise FC will look to regroup when they return home to Swangard Stadium in Burnaby on September 20 to face Ottawa Rapid FC. The team also recently bolstered its defence with the signing of New Zealand international Rebecca Lake, who is expected to bring stability at the back as the playoff push continues.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
