ANALYSIS – AFC Toronto struggled at the start of the game. The Vancouver Rise FC generated wave after wave of attacks early. This, along with AFC Toronto not finishing their chances, was a big reason why the Vancouver Rise FC won the game at York Lions Stadium.
AFC Toronto Struggled Out of the Gate Against the Vancouver Rise FC
Quinn Played Exceptionally Well
Quinn were probably the player of the game against AFC Toronto. Their ability to create crosses for their teammates was noticeable as some examples include:
- Quinn delivered a great cross to Anna Bout, as she scored the opening goal of the game.
- Quinn were able to deliver a cross just six minutes later to Jessica De Filippo, who converted on the scoring opportunity.
“It’s great to have Quinn back and have Quinn back on in more minutes, coming back for the injury. I think Quinn are important for us and the style of play we have. So, we can keep control of the ball even though we have pressure. And then, you know, that right foot there is really good for a short service and long service, so having them in those positions is just great.”
Quinn were part of the team that helped create crosses for their team. They also played a big part in how the third goal was scored. However, they were not the only reason why Vancouver won.
Vancouver Rise FC Did Very Well With Crosses Inside AFC Toronto’s Box
The Rise won this game because of their ability to create crosses into the box. Two examples can be seen above. However, another example was when Camille Reyes delivered a fantastic cross following a corner, as Tori Temeth scored the third goal of the game via a header.
It was such a positive start by Vancouver as they did not allow AFC Toronto to rest. It also seems the players worked on set pieces.
This is what Vancouver Rise FC defender, Tumeth, said about the game:
“I’ve been practicing a little bit of set pieces, and I felt good during the week, so it definitely shows how important momentum is.”
Vancouver did very well with their crosses today, and it was a big reason why they won the game today and got all three points at York Lions Stadium.
AFC Toronto Did Not Capitalize On Their Scoring Chances
AFC Toronto has had trouble making their scoring opportunities count. Some examples of this include:
- Kaylee Hunter delivered a great pass to Lauren Rowe, but she was unable to convert on it.
- Nikayla Small connected two or three passes to Hunter, but Hunter could not score.
The build-up play is good, and the ability to create scoring chances is great as well. However, the biggest problem for AFC this season is converting on those scoring opportunities. Even then, though, the Rise’s defence was also top-notch in this game.
READ MORE: Roses FC Earns Draw Late Against AFC at York Lions Stadium
Other Factors: Vancouver Rise FC’s Defence Was Solid
Vancouver Rise FC’s defence was excellent. In particular, there was one Vancouver Rise FC teenager who had the game of her life. Her name is Myla Ewasiuk, and Tori Tumeth had this to say about her and the defence on Saturday:
“Credit has to be given to Myla; she’s 16 years old, and she came in today and put a very mature performance in, so definitely credit to her.”
Ewasiuk made her debut for Vancouver on Saturday and played a big role in Vancouver securing the clean sheet.
Because of this win, Vancouver climbs to third place in the NSL standings. They have 16 points in 12 games. However, this position is precarious, as AFC Toronto has 15 points and the Halifax Tides FC have 14 points. In addition, AFC has played one less game than both Halifax and Vancouver.
There is also excitement with Winnipeg getting an NSL team. This is what the Rise FC head coach, Anja Heiner-Møller, said about it:
“Amazing, just amazing,” Heiner-Møller. “Very selfishly, we really like having shorter plane rides too, to Winnipeg.”
From what she said, she is very excited about the NSL coming to Winnipeg and is excited about the league’s growth.
As for shorter plane rides, it is important to note that the NSL has six teams, but only two in Western Canada. These teams are the Vancouver Rise FC and the Calgary Wild FC. Adding a third Canadian western city (and a second Prairie) city will really reduce the burden of travel for soccer players playing for both the Rise and the Wild.
READ MORE: The Ottawa Rapid Ends AFC Toronto’s Five-Game Unbeaten Run
Games Coming Up For Both Teams
AFC Toronto will now travel to Laval, Quebec to face the Montreal Roses FC at the Stade Boréale on July 23. That game will be shown at 7:00 pm ET, and it will be shown on YouTube, CBC Gem, and RDS.
This is while on July 25, the Vancouver Rise FC will host the Halifax Tides FC at Swangard Stadium. That game will be shown in Canada on TSN and in the U.S. on ESPN+. That game will be shown at 1:00 pm PT (4:00 pm ET and 5:00 pm AT).
Photo Credit: Lucas Kschischang (LBK) for AFC Toronto on July 18, 2026.
