Vancouver Rise FC clinches a Northern Super League playoff spot with a 1-1 draw vs Halifax Tides FC, gearing up for the final regular season matches.
Vancouver Rise FC Punches Ticket to Playoffs
Vancouver Rise FC has officially punched their ticket to the Northern Super League playoffs after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Halifax Tides FC on Saturday at Wanderers Grounds. This marks a milestone achievement for the team in only their inaugural season.
“Securing a playoff spot in our first year is huge for us,” said Interim Sporting Director Robyn Gayle. “Now, we focus on the final three games to sharpen our play, stay consistent, and showcase the relentless spirit of our players, staff, and fans.”
Dominating Possession, Pressuring the Tide
The match saw Rise FC controlling possession for 65% of the game, peppering the net with 23 shots, 11 on target, while Halifax Tides managed only five shots, three on goal.
Milly Clegg of the Tide struck first in the 15th minute, giving Halifax an early lead. Rise FC responded with unrelenting pressure, creating several chances—including a near-miss from Jessica De Filippo at the penalty spot before halftime.
Holly Ward Levels the Score
Persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Holly Ward delivered a precise strike to tie the game, silencing the Halifax crowd and sending Vancouver Rise FC fans into celebration.
With just three games left in the regular season, Rise FC is determined to climb as high as possible on the table before playoffs.
Playoff Outlook and Upcoming Matches
Rise FC will travel to Ottawa to face Ottawa Rapid FC on Saturday, Oct. 8, at 4:30 PM PT. The top four teams in the Northern Super League—AFC Toronto, Montreal Roses, Ottawa Rapid, and Vancouver Rise FC—will compete in home-and-away semifinals in early November. The final showdown is set for Nov. 15 at BMO Field in Toronto.
This milestone achievement cements Vancouver Rise FC’s place in Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league and sets an exciting tone for the playoffs.