Tim Horton’s field had one final match to host this weekend as Atlético Ottawa came to Hamilton to look for a spot in the CPL final in Calgary. Would Hamilton Forge FC finally break their three-game goalless streak to get a chance at revenge, or would Ottawa once again beat Forge to cement their place in the CPL Final?
Match Overview
Forge FC could not have had a worse run going into this game in terms of form after going goalless for three straight games and facing the chance that they may not reach the final for the first time in club history. Alternatively, Ottawa came into this match on a high after winning an instant classic match last week.
The match got underway with an unexpected change in the Forge FC lineup. Tristan Borges, Forge FC’s all-time leading goal scorer started on the bench. Atlético Ottawa seemed to notice this early and tried to pin Forge FC into their half of the field. The increase in pressure and possession led to a great chance on goal in the 10th minute off of the foot of Ballou Tabla. Ottawa again came close in the 23rd minute from Jesús del Amo off of a corner kick. Forge FC’s first big chance of the first half came from Kyle Bekker inside of the 18-yard box. Despite the pressure from Ottawa and the opening chance from Forge, the teams walked into the locker rooms tied at 0-0.
From the first kick of the second half, it looked as if the fans at Tim Horton’s field would be in for more of the same from Atlético Ottawa. But in the 53rd minute, Hamilton’s defender, Owolabi-Belewu would get his head to the ball off of a corner from captain, Kyle Bekker. The goal was all that Ottawa seemed to need to roar to life. The remainder of the 90 minutes was controlled by Ottawa as they continued to pepper Forge FC’s goal. It was an outstanding performance by Jassem Koleilat that kept Forge in the match and ultimately delivered them the win that they needed
Looking Ahead
With the win, Forge FC advances to the CPL Final with one thing on their mind, revenge. It is one of the most competitive rivalries in the CPL and fans will get to see it play out with a trophy on the line once again.
Tune in on November 9th, 2024 to see how the 2024 season will come to an end!
CPL Match Highlights: Forge FC vs Athletico Ottawa
Photo Credit: Gary Wiggins/ISNSoccer.com
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