Montreal Roses FC secured a 2-1 win over Ottawa Rapid FC on Saturday evening in a landmark Pride Match at TD Place. Goals from Latifah Abdu and Tanya Boychuk sealed the victory for the visitors, while Ottawa played over 60 minutes with 10 players following a first-half red card to Olivia Scott, the first in league history.

Pride and Passion in the Capital

Ottawa’s home crowd was buzzing for the league’s first Pride theme match of the season, with vibrant displays of support and celebration throughout the stands. On the pitch, the visitors struck first: Latifah Abdu gave Montreal the lead in the 23rd minute with a composed right-footed finish from the center of the box, capping off a fast-paced counterattack. 

Just moments later, momentum shifted sharply. Ottawa’s Olivia Scott was shown a straight red card in the 26th minute for denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (DOGSO), making her the first player in NSL history to be sent off. The foul occurred as Montreal’s Tanya Boychuk broke free toward goal, with only the goalkeeper to beat. With no other defenders in position and the play clearly heading toward a high-percentage chance, the referee had little choice but to issue the dismissal under DOGSO criteria. Down to 10 players for over an hour, Ottawa pressed back and nearly drew level before halftime, but Montreal’s back line stayed organized to maintain their one-goal advantage at the break.

Playing a woman down, Ottawa pressed back and nearly drew level before halftime, but Montreal’s back line stayed organized to maintain their one-goal advantage at the break.

Ten-Player Fightback Falls Short

The second half opened with fireworks. Ottawa’s DB Pridham rose to the occasion yet again, heading home the equalizer in the 57th minute to level the score at 1-1. The goal was Pridham’s eighth of the season, cementing her status as the NSL’s leading scorer, and electrified the home crowd.

Montreal answered swiftly. In the 65th minute, Tanya Boychuk slotted home the eventual winner, capping off a composed team move with a low finish from close range. Ottawa pushed for another equalizer in the final stages, buoyed by their fans, but the Roses held firm to claim all three points.

Match Stats

• Possession: Montreal controlled 57% of the ball, with Ottawa holding 43%, particularly during a strong first-half push before going down to 10 players.
• Total Shots: Montreal led the shot count 15-6, generating consistent pressure in the attacking third.
• Passing Accuracy: Montreal completed 499 passes at 87% accuracy, while Ottawa completed 298 at 78%, with the Roses' crisp passing helping them manage the game late.

Looking Ahead

With the win, Montreal Roses FC move to 5-2-2 on the season and hold on to their number one spot in the standings, while Ottawa Rapid FC fall to 3-3-2. Next weekend, Ottawa remains at home to host Calgary on Saturday, June 21 while Montreal heads on the road to Vancouver for a highly-anticipated face off against the Rise on Sunday, June 22. 

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

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