MONTREAL — The Montreal Roses got a goal in the 81st minute from Tanya Boychuk and a shutout performance from goalkeeper Gabrielle Lambert to clinch first place in the Northern Super League with a 1-0 victory over the visiting Ottawa Rapid. The Roses went into Friday’s regular-season ending match needing a win or tie to top the six-team women’s circuit. The Roses finished with 45 points — 12 wins, four losses, nine draws — while the Rapid finished with 40 points — 12 wins, nine losses, four draws. If AFC Toronto beats the visiting Halifax Tides on Monday, Toronto — currently with 38 points — will finish second. Montreal had an edge in possession on Friday against Ottawa — 53 per cent to 47 — and fired more shots 16-6, including a 4-1 advantage in on-target shots. The Roses took five of the game’s seven corners at Stade Boreale. Montreal received the game’s lone yellow card. The Vancouver Rise host the Calgary Wild on Sunday. Vancouver needs a tie or win to have a shot at the fourth and final playoff spot, currently held by the Tides. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 23, 2026.
