Tim Hortons Field (July 21, 2019) — Forge FC put away Valour FC on Saturday, collecting their ninth point in the last eight days. This was also Forge FC’s third consecutive win. Previous victories over Pacific FC and HFX Wanderers set them up for success in a thrilling 3-1 victory over strugglers Valour FC.

Beat the Heat

Forge were playing their second game in a row at home. Meanwhile, the temperature at field level was a sweltering 42 degrees Celsius.

The game had a hydration break in each half and both teams took special care in the hot weather. Surprisingly, Forge FC head coach Bobby Smyrniotis went with a largely first-choice starting XI. Although the Hamilton side played Wednesday night, they didn’t show any ill effects or tired legs.

A Strong Start

Although Forge have collected points in their last three games, they haven’t always started matches strongly. The heat may have played a factor in this one. However, Forge did get the first-half breakthrough that has been a key to their success.

In the 32nd minute, a David Choinière cross dropped for Elimane Cissé who made no mistake, smashing home his first-ever Canadian Premier League goal. A few minutes later, Dominic Samuel was fouled in the penalty area and the referee pointed to the spot. In Wednesday’s match against HFX Wanderers, captain Kyle Bekker took the penalty duties. Bekker struck his penalty well, but it was saved by goalkeeper Christian Oxner.

Emery Welshman took over the penalty duties in this match. Welshman’s goal is just his third this season. Early in the second half, Valour got a goal back on a scrambled play at the near post of Triston Henry’s goal.

Goal of the Season

Even after Wednesday’s Tristan Borges Olimpico against HFX, Kadell Thomas has given us our goal of the season. Just before the final whistle, the young Canadian danced through the Valour defense and produced an absolute goal of beauty. With the third goal, Forge FC put away Valour and keep them at the bottom of the CPL standings.

Looking Ahead

Forge can take a few days of rest before starting to prepare for their next match. The team gets ready for the road, taking on Edmonton on July 27 before a quick flight home to prepare for CONCACAF League. Guatemalan side Antigua GFC are in town on Aug. 1 for the first leg of their two-legged tie. The winner of the tie goes to the Round of 16 for a further chance at CONCACAF Champions League play.