Vancouver Rise FC claimed a crucial 2-0 road victory over Ottawa Rapid FC on Wednesday night at TD Place, tightening the race for playoff seeding as both clubs eye higher ground heading into the final week of the regular season.

The evening carried added significance as Ottawa captain Desiree Scott took the pitch for her final home match of the regular season, with supporters rising to honour her storied career before kickoff. But Vancouver played the role of spoiler, striking twice early to secure all three points and keep the battle for second place wide open.

Vancouver Strike Early
The visitors wasted no time imposing themselves on the match. In the 14th minute, Jessica De Filippo slipped a precise pass through to Latifah Abdu, who calmly finished to give Vancouver a 1-0 lead. Just three minutes later, the two swapped roles with De Filippo doubling the advantage with a clinical header off a pinpoint corner from Holly Ward.

The quick double stunned the home crowd and left Ottawa chasing the game for the remainder of the half. Despite an even exchange of shots and possession, Vancouver’s early efficiency proved decisive.

Ottawa Push, Vancouver Hold Firm
Ottawa regrouped after halftime, pressing high and testing Vancouver’s defensive shape with a flurry of chances led by DB Pridham, Desiree Scott, & Julia Benati. But Vancouver’s back line, anchored by the ever-composed Morgan McAslan in goal, held firm under pressure. The Rise managed the tempo expertly, seeing out the clean sheet to claim a massive result on the road.

Match Stats

• Possession: Vancouver edged the battle with 52% of the ball, while Ottawa held their own at 48%.
• Total Shots: Both clubs registered 16 attempts in an evenly matched contest.
• Passing Accuracy: Each side completed 82% of their passes in a well-played midfield duel.

Looking Ahead
Ottawa (10-8-6, 36 points) remain in second place but now find themselves level on points with both Montréal and Vancouver as the race for playoff seeding goes down to the wire. They’ll travel to Halifax on October 15 for their final regular season test.

Vancouver (10-7-6, 36 points) rise to 36 points as well, sitting just behind Ottawa on goal differential. They’ll visit Calgary Wild FC on October 16, aiming to finish strong and potentially leap into a top-three position.

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