The Vancouver Rise secured a spot in the Northern Super League Final by triumphing over the Ottawa Rapid in a shootout on Saturday. Sofia Hagman’s successful penalty kick in the sixth round, following Ottawa’s missed shot by Julia Benati, sealed the victory for Rise. Goalkeeper Morgan McAslan’s two crucial saves during the shootout, including one against Susanne Haaland, played a significant role in the outcome.
Despite Ottawa initially taking the lead with goals from Delaney Baie Pridham and Melanie Forbes, Vancouver fought back with a late goal from Holly Ward to level the score and force extra time. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams, with Rapid head coach Katrine Pederson expressing mixed feelings of pride and disappointment after the intense game.
Vancouver’s dominance in possession, shots on target, and accurate passes in the second leg showcased their determination to secure a spot in the final. With their place confirmed in the upcoming NSL Final on November 15, Rise will face the winner of the AFC Toronto versus Montreal Roses semifinal. The retirement announcement of Rapid’s captain, Desiree Scott, added a bittersweet note to the match, which drew an attendance of 3,068 spectators.