Vancouver FC and Cavalry FC played to a 0-0 stalemate in the debut of the Canadian Premier League (CPL) “On Tour” series in Kelowna.
An opportunity to see the professionals play away from their usual venues drew a record 6,281 to the Apple Bowl despite less-than ideal cold and wet weather that created slick field conditions.
In spite of the flurry of opportunities and attacking play at both sides, neither team managed to find the net as they finished at 0-0, worth one point apiece.
As a result, VFC climbed into third place, while Cavalry extended their unbeaten streak to nine games.
Vancouver had 18 shots and 1.75 expected goals, but weren’t able to solve the Cavs’ defence nor goalkeeper Marco Carducci.
Vancouver head coach Afshin Ghotbi thought his players created enough chances to win the game,but "just missed the concentration that you need to score goals.”
Players and staff from both Vancouver and Cavalry visited Kelowna-area schools and youth soccer clubs over the weekend, spreading the word and engaging young fans.
VFC captain Callum Irving thought that was probably the best part about their visit.
“I think that’s a big part of the CPL, is you want to engage with the community you’re in and build that relationship, and I thought that Kelowna really welcomed us with open arms and that turned out to be a good foundation for a really good day," Irving commented.
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Vancouver FC fullback Kadin Chung was named player of the match.
After some injury troubles early this year, Chung was back in good form, making nine passes in the final third and winning nine duels — including four out of five in the air, which Ghotbi pointed out was impressive given his 5'8" frame. Chung won possession seven times, and made at least three potentially goal-saving tackles at the last moment in the box.
Next for Vancouver, a return to home field at Willoughby Community Park on Sunday, June 23, as they host Halifax Wanderers FC at 4 p.m.