Hamilton, Ontario — Forge FC have gone first in the fall standings thanks to a statement win over Cavalry FC. The Hamilton side got a second-half goal from Jonathan Grant in what was a cagey and defensive match.
A New Style?
Forge FC have made their early impressions on the Canadian Premier League by being a fluid, possession-focused and free-scoring side. While they retain their scoring prowess, they have become a much more defensively sound side. Forge FC have only allowed a single goal in their last four games across all competitions. They have also conceded the second-fewest goals of any Canadian Premier League side.
Some of the added defensive stability has come from the arrival of David Edgar, who adds much needed experience to a young back four. Add in the recent good play of Giulano Frano and the continued performances of Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson in midfield, and Forge FC have a defensive platform from which to build.
First Goal for Grant
Although the game was cagey and lacked a bit of offensive drive in the first half, Forge opened the second half with real intensity. Marcel Zajac had one of his best games in a Forge shirt, creating plenty of opportunities. Tristan Borges played in central midfield and helped provide the creative spark that led to the second half goal. The Bekker-Borges connection continues to be one of the best attacking duos in the league.
Grant received the ball in space. He admitted after the game that he was fortunate to get the ball out of his feet after he took a poor first touch, but hit a great strike to beat Marco Carducci.
FORGE GO AHEAD
🔥 @jngrnt with a silky shot to put @ForgeFCHamilton up one over @CPLCavalryFC!
🔨 FOR 1 – 0 CAV 🐎
⚽️ #FORvsCAV#CanPLxOneSoccer | https://t.co/hishXepRT3 | #CanPL pic.twitter.com/G7y0XYKrZZ
— OneSoccer (@onesoccer) August 25, 2019
Statement Win
The win not only puts Forge at the top of the table, it continues a 9-game unbeaten run across the league and CONCACAF League. Focus now switches back to that competition, with the team leaving Tuesday for Honduras. The second leg of their round-of-16 tie against Olimpia will be played in front of an empty stadium following fan violence prior to a league match.
Another Forge FC statement win against Olimpia on the road would see them return to international action later in September. Their potential opponents are both from the Guatemalan league: Comunicaciones F.C. or C.D Guastotoya. Although looking forward in the competition is tempting, Bobby Smyrniotis will be sure to keep his side focused on the next match.
Furthermore, as the fixtures start to pile up, Smyrniotis will have a choice to make. With injuries testing squad depth, Forge may have to prioritize one competition over another. Currently, Elimane Cisse and Jonsson are on the treatment table along with Bertrand Owundi. All three should return to action soon.
