PFC unlucky to take nothing away from Calgary

August 28, 2023

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Although Pacific FC battled hard in the heat on Sunday afternoon, an unfortunate decision went against the team and ultimately decided the match as the Tridents lost 1-0 to Cavalry FC in Calgary. It was a hard-fought defensive display from Pacific who can take credit for their resilient performance at the back in difficult conditions. If not for the penalty call, a gritty 0-0 draw would’ve been at least palatable away to another title chaser, but instead it was a disappointing trip back to the Island.

Some positives from the match for the Tridents included the good front-foot defending in the first half, which gave Cavalry little time or space to operate. In general the defence was solid and as mentioned before would’ve come away with a clean sheet if not for the penalty. Staying away from the penalty decision though, Pacific will feel like they can still find their rhythm going forward and open up more chances in attack – an area of the game that can easily click back into place with a good performance in the next match.

Speaking of that next match, the team knows how crucial this last stretch of games is. As we enter September and the last five weeks of the regular season, there is a big chance to find that positive momentum again. Especially considering the team is still second in the table and can control their own destiny in that regard with a final push across the finish line of the regular season.

Looking Ahead

After a difficult spell on the road, Pacific returns home on Saturday to play Valour FC in the Soccer for All Match presented by Telus. There will be many fun activities and initiatives taking on Saturday including a dunk tank where the Superheroes of Victoria will be ready and waiting to be dunked, an equipment drive organized by Telus where prizes including an Apple Watch and a PFC jersey can be won by those who donate gently-used soccer gear, a Dance Off between Stewie the Starfish and Sunny Bear from the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, and more!

Additionally, if you purchase a Pacific FC away teal jersey at the match, $5 will go towards the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and you’ll receive two tickets to our match on September 8th.

All told, it should be a pretty energetic afternoon at Starlight Stadium the next time the Tridents take the pitch. You can get your tickets for that match here!

PFC Standout Player: Manny Aparicio

Aparicio was as dynamic as ever on Sunday afternoon in Calgary. Pacific’s no. 34 was all over the pitch as he looked to push his team forward. He was unlucky not to have grabbed a goal by the end of the 90 minutes as he unleashed a couple of rockets from outside the box that were inches away from going in or ending in a secondary chance off the rebound.

Statistically, Aparicio led Pacific in many attacking areas against Cavalry while also showing his defensive bite again. The 27-year-old had the most touches, most passes, most passes into the final third, most final third entries, most shots, as well as three interceptions and won possession a game-high 13 times.