Latifah Abdu and Jessica De Filippo each found the back of the net as Vancouver Rise FC secured a 2-0 victory over Ottawa Rapid FC during Desiree Scott’s final regular-season match at home. Scott, a prominent Canadian women’s national team midfielder nicknamed “The Destroyer,” is set to retire at the conclusion of the season after playing for Ottawa in the league’s inaugural year.
Before the game kicked off, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe proclaimed October 8 as Desiree Scott Day, with 2,906 fans at TD Place donning pink headbands in her honor. Expressing her gratitude, the 38-year-old Scott remarked, “I had hoped for a low-key affair, but Ottawa went all out. I am deeply appreciative of the fans and the club for their celebratory gestures. It has been a privilege to contribute to the establishment of this league, particularly with Ottawa Rapid – I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Despite bidding farewell to her regular-season home fixtures, Scott’s career is not yet concluded. Ottawa Rapid FC will conclude its regular season by facing Halifax Tides FC on the road. The Rapids have secured a playoff berth and are currently tied for second place with Montreal and Vancouver, all boasting 36 points in the standings. Toronto leads the pack, with all four teams having secured playoff berths.
