Ottawa Rapid Can't Contain Boychuk in 2-1 Home Loss
Ottawa Rapid FC suffered a tough defeat on home soil Saturday afternoon, falling 2-1 to a dominant Montreal Roses FC squad in Northern Super League action. Tanya Boychuk was the difference-maker, burying two goals in the first half to keep Montreal's unbeaten record intact.
Boychuk Takes Control Early
Boychuk wasted no time making her presence felt, converting twice before halftime to put the Roses firmly in the driver's seat. The two-goal cushion proved decisive, as Ottawa managed only a single reply despite pushing hard in the second half.
For the Rapid, the result stings — hosting one of the league's top sides in front of home supporters is exactly the kind of occasion a young club needs to announce itself. While the lone goal showed Ottawa can find the net, the defensive lapses in the opening 45 minutes are the clear area for improvement heading into the week.
A Growing NSL Scene in the Capital
The Northern Super League is still in its early seasons, and Ottawa's inclusion in the league represents a meaningful milestone for women's professional soccer in the region. The Rapid's home matches have drawn a passionate local following, with fans eager to see the club develop into a legitimate contender.
Saturday's loss doesn't derail Ottawa's season — it's a long campaign, and every match against a sharp opponent like Montreal provides the squad with valuable experience. The Roses, for their part, look every bit the undefeated team their record suggests: organized, clinical, and dangerous on the counter.
What's Next for the Rapid
Ottawa will need to regroup quickly. The squad will be looking to bounce back in their next fixture and demonstrate that Saturday's result was a learning moment rather than a pattern. If the Rapid can tighten up defensively while maintaining their attacking intent, they have the tools to be competitive throughout the rest of the NSL schedule.
For local soccer fans, every home game is worth getting out to — the Northern Super League is a genuinely exciting product, and watching Ottawa develop on the pitch in real time is part of what makes supporting a newer club worthwhile. Keep an eye on the Rapid's schedule for upcoming home dates.
Source: CBC Ottawa / CBC Sports
