Forge spoiled York United FC’s home opener as they cruised past their rivals 3-0 to win the first 905 Derby of the 2024 CPL season.
It was a milestone matchup for York United, who ushered in a new era at York Lions Stadium this afternoon as the match marked their first home opener under their new ownership group.
The Nine Stripes had some chances early and were developing some great link up plays through their midfield comprised of Elijah Adekugbe, Josue Martinez, Clement Bayiha, Austin Ricci, and captain Mo Babouli. They had a great scoring opportunity in the 39th minute as Babouli received the ball inside the Forge box but didn’t get a strong enough touch on the ball, which was a sigh of relief for the visitors.
Despite York playing fairly well to start the match, they were unable to test the opposing goalkeeper and didn’t utilize Max Ferrari’s pace and creativity on the wing-back position. Their tactical approach left them vulnerable at times and Forge finally capitalized on that near the end of the first half.
Prior to the conclusion of the first half, Vincensini came up big with a crucial save, however, he was unable to keep the game scoreless as Forge got on the scoresheet following an excellent strike by David Choiniere.
Nash tried to find a spark off the bench as he subbed Christian Zeppieri into the match early in the second half. The midfielder is in his rookie season with the club and was in familiar territory as he played many of his U-Sports matches at the stadium as a important member of Carmine Isacco’s York Lions.
During his post match press conference, Nash complimented Zeppieri for what he has showcased in training so far as he transitions to the professional level. It remains to be seen whether the Maple, Ontario native can
Forge extended their lead to 2-0 in the 61st minute following a counterattack that resulted in Beni Bandibanga striking the ball past Vincensini.
It would go from bad to worse for York as they conceded another goal in the 67th minute after Forge’s pressing led managed to the ball barely being kept in play resulting in Choiniere scoring his second of the match. Although they extended their lead to 3-0, it appeared as though the ball was out of play based on the replay shown on the broadcast.
York had one last effort to get in the scoresheet in the final moments of the second half, but Babouli’s free kick attempt was stopped.
On a positive note, it was announced that 2,654 fans were in attendance at York Lions Stadium, which marked the York’s largest attendance since their inaugural season.
Photo credit: York United FC
Check out highlights of York United FC vs Forge below:
