Vancouver Rise FC stays undefeated with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Ottawa, setting a league record and climbing to third in the Northern Super League.
Vancouver Rise FC Makes History
The energy at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa was electric on Sunday, August 27, as Vancouver Rise FC pulled off a dramatic 3-2 win against Ottawa Rapid FC. The victory not only extended their unbeaten streak to six matches but also set a brand-new league record in the Northern Super League.
A Tight Battle on the Field
From the opening whistle, the match promised fireworks. Rise FC captain Samantha Chang struck first, putting her team ahead in the 25th minute. Ottawa tried to push back, but Vancouver maintained control with 11 shots, six on target. In contrast, Ottawa managed only eight, three of which tested the goalkeeper.
As the game picked up pace, Lisa Pechersky nearly doubled the lead before halftime, her powerful run ending in a deflected shot that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Ottawa Strikes Back
The second half saw momentum shift when Ottawa’s Delaney Pridham equalized in the 57th minute. Not to be outdone, Vancouver’s Holly Ward reclaimed the lead in the 76th minute. Yet Ottawa wasn’t finished. With just minutes left, Julia Benati tied things up in the 88th minute, sparking celebrations from the home crowd.
A Late Twist Seals the Win
But the drama wasn’t over. Barely a minute later, Chang delivered again, scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute. That strike secured Vancouver’s 3-2 win and their place in the league’s record books.
Key Highlights
- Debut Moment: New signing Anna Bout made her first Northern Super League appearance.
- Discipline: The lone yellow card went to Vancouver’s Yuka Okamoto in the 43rd minute.
- Standings Shift: With 26 points, Vancouver now sits third in the standings, overtaking Ottawa. Only AFC Toronto (32 points) and Montréal Roses (28 points) remain ahead.
What’s Next for Rise FC?
The next challenge comes quickly. Vancouver returns to Swangard Stadium on August 30, where they’ll face the Montréal Roses in what promises to be another crucial clash.
As part of Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league, the Northern Super League, Vancouver Rise continues to prove they are serious contenders for the playoffs. With only the top four teams advancing to the semifinals, every game counts—and Rise FC is rising at just the right time.