Other than the CPL this week, we also have the Northern Super League (NSL) final. This marks as one of the historic games in the Vancouver Rise FC history, capturing the first-ever Northern Super League Title. Watching championship title games always feels different. In our home turf especially, makes this championship everlasting for Vancouver.
In the beginning of the game, Toronto struck first, where Kaylee Turner scored the only goal for them. Even though the game was still early at that time, it felt as if the AFC Toronto had all the momentum by their side. But the Rise FC aren’t backing down without a fight either.
Things started to shift after the half; Nikki Stanton rose up on a corner in the 54th minute of the game to tie up the game 1-1. The tone of the entire match changed instantly, the crowd noise was loud, it was getting wilder and more hopeful for their team. Rise FC started getting the momentum back them, every possession had weight, every pass had to be exact. Then, Holly Ward cuts into the box and shoots the go-ahead goal in the 68th minute, leading the game 2-1 for Vancouver.
From that point on, the game became much more intense, both teams are not backing down from a fight, AFC Toronto tried desperately for another goal, while Vancouver’s goalkeeper, Morgan McAslan was holding the fort down, not letting any single opportunity to go pass her. Save after save, eventually the whistle blew, the confetti flying everywhere in the stadium. The game was over; Vancouver Rise FC lifted the trophy and finally was rewarded their first championship title in franchise history.
Knowing that this was the first-ever NSL final made it better, Vancouver Rise FC made a statement where it is more than a game, it led for others to witness the rise of professional women’s soccer in Canada, giving more opportunities for young women athletes to try to aim towards their dreams and making them a reality. For the team, it gives them opportunity to build on this success to continue to strengthen their game and to hold down their title. It is just a beginning for the team, and I am looking forward to see what this team will continue to do in the future.
Ben Chan kchan467@my.bcit.ca