Ottawa Rapid FC delivered a statement performance on Thursday night, defeating Halifax Tides FC 5-0 at TD Place in a match played under heavy rain. The Rapids struck early through DB Pridham and steadily pulled away, showcasing attacking variety and composure to secure a commanding victory and climb back into second place.

The breakthrough came in the 10th minute, when Nicola Golen’s clever work inside the box teed up DB Pridham. With trademark flair, Pridham executed a scissor kick that flew past Halifax keeper Anika Tóth, igniting the home crowd and setting the tone for the night.

Ottawa doubled their advantage seconds into the second half. A determined defensive effort from Tóth denied Pridham initially, but the rebound spilled across the penalty area. Lee Min-A reacted quickest, tucking it away in the 46th minute for 2-0.

Scott, Forbes, and Downing Seal the Win
Halifax pressed forward in search of a reply, but Ottawa’s finishing touch proved decisive. In the 66th minute, Pridham’s header rattled the crossbar, only for Olivia Scott to nod in the rebound and extend the lead to 3-0.

The Rapids added further insurance in the 77th minute when Julia Benati’s strike bounced off the crossbar and into the path of Melanie Forbes, who slotted home to make it 4-0.

Capping the night, Stella Downing connected with a well-timed Benati pass in the 83rd minute, finishing cleanly to put the Rapids five goals clear. Despite continued effort from Halifax in difficult conditions, the visitors couldn’t find a way through Ottawa’s defense.

Match Stats

• Possession: Ottawa held 61% of the ball to Halifax’s 39%, dictating much of the tempo.
• Total Shots: The sides were nearly even, Ottawa edging Halifax 15-14, but the Rapids capitalized on their best looks.
• Passing Accuracy: Ottawa’s 87% accuracy topped Halifax’s 77%, reflecting sharper distribution on the night.

Looking Ahead
The emphatic win lifts Ottawa back into second place at 8-6-4, reasserting their top-two ambitions. The Rapids will remain at TD Place for a pivotal clash with Montréal Roses FC on September 7. 

Halifax, now 3-11-3, stay in sixth place. They’ll return home to host AFC Toronto on September 6, with the chance to regroup and turn possession into points as the season enters its final stretch.

For full match statistics, lineups, and a detailed play-by-play, visit the official NSL match page.