A playoff spot is not out of reach for the Halifax Tides, but it will all come down to their last game of the season against AFC Toronto on Monday. “We try to be as detailed as possible. We could only control what we control, which is when we have the ball and we know we need to be better with that,” said head coach Stephen Hart. “When we don’t have the ball, we have to show a certain level of concentration and aggression.” All six Northern Super League (NSL) teams are scheduled to hit the pitch between Friday and Monday. Heading into the weekend, the Tides are currently fourth in the standings, which puts them in playoff contention. “We prepared differently this year. We just feel more connected and united towards the goal and knowing what have to put in every single day to get better,” said Tides captain Saorla Miller. Their record this season is currently 7-10-7 with 28 points – tied with Vancouver Rise FC. The team has worked hard to get to this point. “I think it’s just a very closeknit team and we all have each other’s backs no matter what role anyone is in,” said goalkeeper Anika Toth. While the Tides’ fate for 2026 is still up in the air, there is one guarantee for next season and that’s the departure of Hart. “It’s been a massive learning curve for me. Very, very different, but I really enjoyed it and I enjoy the way, especially this year, that they have this never say die attitude,” said Hart. Both Miller and Toth look back fondly on Hart’s time as coach. “He’s been a great mentor for all of my teammates, including myself, and I think just the experience that he brings has brought a lot to the team on and off the field,” said Toth. “He has a lot of good things to help us grow as people and as players which has been really beneficial to the team culture and the team success.” Hart will also miss being behind the bench for the Tides and appreciates all the love from fans. “Thank you for supporting the team and keep supporting the team. We need to have football in this province for many years to come,” he said. The Tides’ last regular season game gets underway Monday at 8 p.m. in Toronto. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
