905 Deep Dive: York United snap Atlético Ottawa’s record-setting unbeaten streak, Forge storm back in Halifax

During a Saturday doubleheader in the Canadian Premier League, York United and Forge FC played away matches, providing their supporters with plenty of reasons to celebrate from the comfort of their own homes.

Atlético Ottawa’s unprecedented nine-game unbeaten run was halted by York, whose own fledgling streak now stands at two matches following their 2-1 victory over Ottawa on Saturday. Benjamín Mora has made an impressive start to his tenure with United. On the other hand, Forge encountered a tough challenge on a rainy field in Halifax, but a new standout player emerged to secure a draw for the team in Hamilton.

Brian Wright’s return brace powers York to a massive win

After a concerning non-contact hamstring injury and a two-week absence, it appeared that Brian Wright’s remarkable form, unquestionably the best form of his 29-year life, had naturally reached its end. Given his goal-scoring record in his first season at York, there was a general agreement that Wright’s improvement in performance was nothing more than wishful thinking.

However, on Saturday, playing against his former club, Wright put another story to rest. He scored two goals with two outstanding finishes and helped earn three points in Benjamín Mora’s second match as York’s head coach. His partnership with Austin Ricci was revitalized, and he claimed the top spot in the CPL’s Golden Boot standings. Wright’s performance was more than effective, accomplishing everything in just 80 minutes.

Speaking after the match, Mora said, “[When] he came back and started to train with the team, he was very focused, very professional. He asked me about his roles regarding the tactical disposition and what I want, and he did it mostly perfectly well throughout the game. He was a bit tired because his game fitness is not as we want. But he’s a striker, he’s a killer when he gets the ball, for sure, because he can put it in the net.”

Wright is simply more self-assured these days. Although he has always been able to maneuver through tight spaces and find openings, his decision-making used to be impulsive. His awareness appears to have improved, and he now takes only genuine opportunities. Even when Wright did take chances last season, it never seemed like he fully trusted himself. There was usually some hesitation with every touch. Wright’s second goal against Ottawa showcased his newfound confidence. His spatial awareness prevented an offside call, and his powerful shot significantly doubled York’s lead.

Naturally, we mustn’t forget about Max Ferrari. His evasive dribbling and precise pass set up Wright perfectly. Wisely, Mora has entrusted Ferrari with the responsibilities on the right wing following Clément Bayiha’s loan to Halifax. It’s a better arrangement. It leads to more opportunities being created and provides York with another dependable option in possession. Additionally, Ferrari’s endurance allows him to fulfill the role of a wingback.

Ferrari was appointed as captain, marking the occasion with significance. No one has appeared in as many games for the Nine Stripes as Ferrari, and arguable no one consistently puts in as much effort week after week.

“Max is, in my opinion, an exemplary player. He sets an example as a person and as a football player,” Mora stated. “He has played 90 games with York and has been here for five years. So I believe he deserves immense respect for that. I’m not saying Max will be the captain for the entire season. But he has certainly done a great job leading by example.”

Mora couldn’t hide his smile once things had settled. He has the York dressing room feeling motivated and unified around a game plan that has proven effective against even the best teams. There’s no room to relax when facing Ottleti. York, even when resorting to a defensive approach, didn’t let up. Thomas Vincensini’s eight saves, each one better than the last, brought extra reassurance to the defense.

“We know how Ottawa’s a good team. Last time we came here, we were up 1-0 and we weren’t able to see out the game,” Wright remarked. “So we knew in the second half, they would come out a little bit more flying.

Nana Ampomah makes immediate impact, salvaging a point for Forge FC in Halifax

The rain poured down from the grey skies, rekindling the spark within Forge FC. Bobby Smyrniotis had the perfect solution: Nana Ampomah, a Ghanaian winger signed with great fanfare. Despite months of delay due to visa issues, Ampomah quickly developed chemistry with his teammates after just three training sessions.Ampomah’s electric pace and skill allowed him to create a scoring opportunity, which Kwasi Poku capitalized on in the 92nd minute. This marked Ampomah’s emergence as a new hero for Forge FC, joining the ranks of Tristan Borges, Kyle Bekker, and Béni Badibanga.

Ampomah’s impact bears similarities to Badibanga’s, who was also a powerful winger. Both players have the ability to change the game with their skills. Badibanga’s first notable moment was a free kick to tie Halifax, while Ampomah’s first was equally impressive. The duo is now a force to be reckoned with, capable of breaking open tight games.

Forge FC’s Manager on Nana Ampomah

Forge FC’s manager, Bobby Smyrniotis, discussed Nana Ampomah’s performance, stating that they’ve been monitoring him closely and are eager to see him develop into a dangerous player in the league. Despite limited time on the field, Ampomah has shown glimpses of his potential.

Forge FC dominated the first half, controlling the tempo and creating opportunities. They were content to reset and wait for Halifax’s high line to push forward, knowing they could still generate chances. However, the hosts’ man-marking strategy left space open for Forge to exploit, and David Choinière came close to scoring but hit the post.

Forge’s efforts to bury the match early led to a sense of complacency, which ultimately cost them. Halifax scored on a rapid counter-attack and from the penalty spot in the 65th minute. Smyrniotis noted that they had to chase the game for the last 20 minutes, which is something they don’t want to do, whether at home or away. Despite this, they were glad to take a point from the match.