Vancouver FC secured their second home win on Friday evening with a score of 2-1 against Halifax Wanderers FC. The leadership of both Rocco Romeo on the backline and Miki Cantave in the front helped to push the BC team’s victory. Their performances also awarded them both recognition on CPL’s Team of the Week for Week 13.

Romeo was the key defensive leader for Vancouver on Friday as rookie goaltender, Jeremy Zielinski, made his professional debut. The 23-year-old controlled the play with a team leading 53 touches in the match and delivered eight clearances which now ranks him second in the league this season with 55. 

The defenceman even collected some offensive statistics by registering two shots in Friday’s contest. Week 13 marks Romeo’s second TOTW honour this season, previously making the “best XI” in Week 2 after Vancouver’s first franchise victory. 

In just his second match with Vancouver, Cantave scored the game-winning goal on Friday while demonstrating his veteran patience and precision timing. The forward lit up the stats sheet to lead the team in chances created (2), successful dribbles (4), duels won (12) and tackles won (5). 

Cantave has already registered 168 minutes for the expansion-side and has quickly settled into Vancouver’s frontline. His effort and leadership on Friday has resulted in his first TOTW recognition of 2023.

———————–

Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of a Vancouver FC home win. Vancouver’s next opportunity to win at Willoughby Park is Saturday, July 22 when we host Cavalry FC. Tickets are still available for the 4 p.m. match and can be purchased online here.