VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Rise FC are looking to keep the good times rolling after last weekend’s big result, this time heading to the home of AFC Toronto on Saturday with an eye on redemption. 

BUILDING MOMENTUM: Rise FC got back to winning ways this past Saturday, coming back from 2-1 down to win 4-2 against Calgary Wild FC for their first road win in Alberta. Mia Pante started the proceedings with her first ever professional goal in the seventh minute, before Mariah Lee opened up her account for the season from the penalty spot shortly before halftime, to get Rise FC back level after falling behind 2-1. A late flurry of attacks saw substitutes Josie Longhurst and Maithé López combine for the former to pull Rise FC back ahead to 3-2, with López popping up with a fourth in added time to add a debut goal to her debut assist. Now with the wind under their sails, Rise FC travel to Toronto with the hopes of building off this win and developing a bit of momentum. 

BESTING YORK LIONS STADIUM: Rise FC travel to York Lions Stadium for the third time in their history to face AFC Toronto on Saturday. Like against Calgary last week, Rise FC will be searching for their first win at York Lions Stadium. While Rise FC maintain a 100% record at BMO Field against AFC Toronto, including the 2-1 win in the NSL Final, they have yet to taste victory at AFC Toronto’s home ground at York University. This weekend will be the first time this season that the team travels to YLS to face AFC Toronto, giving them the perfect opportunity to banish old demons and even leapfrog the hosts in the table should they steal all three points.  

COLOMBIAN TENACITY: Last game saw highly-rated Colombian forward Maithé López come into her own with an appearance off the bench, securing Rise FC a comeback victory with a goal and an assist. The 19-year-old striker came on in the 65th minute and set up Josie Longhurst with a great cross for the Welsh player to nod in. Then, López was at the right place, at the right time to tap in the insurance goal in added time to cap off a brilliant cameo. The Colombian international has shown flashes of quality for both Rise FC and at the international level so far this season, being a part of Colombia’s squad for their Nations League victory. Now López could be clicking into gear at the perfect time for Rise FC.