The Montreal Roses secured a 2-0 victory over AFC Toronto in Northern Super League play on Sunday, with Marie-Yasmine Alidou netting the winning goal from a penalty kick in the 55th minute. Elyse Bennett contributed her ninth goal of the season to provide additional cushion for the Roses, who are currently in second place with a record of 9-4-3. This match marked the team’s debut under interim head coach Maryse Bard-Martel.
Despite a strong effort from Toronto, Shelina Zadorsky’s goal in the 68th minute was disallowed due to an offside ruling. Roses’ goalkeeper Anna Karpenko showcased an impressive performance, facing 20 shots, nine of which were on target, to secure a clean sheet for her team.
On the opposing side, Toronto’s goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo faced seven shots, five of which were on target. The Roses took the field for the first time after parting ways with head coach Robert Rositoiu following a disappointing 1-0 defeat against semi-pro team Simcoe County in the W Canadian Championship.
This victory marks a positive start for the Roses under their new leadership, showing resilience and determination on the field.