Sitting with a 5-5-4 record, 21 goals scored, 20 conceded, and a narrow +1 goal differential, the team’s campaign hasn’t gone as expected. A decent start gave way to a midseason dip, exacerbated by injuries to key players like Quinn and Stanton, which disrupted continuity, especially in build-up play and in defending transition.
One of the biggest issues has been instability at left center-back, where Vancouver have already used four different players, including 16-year-old academy player Chloe Taylor, beside ironwoman Shannon Woeller. This lack of consistency has hampered defensive cohesion. Meanwhile, goalkeeper McAslan has been a standout bright spot, leading the league with 36 saves — a testament to both her shot-stopping ability and the amount of shots the backline has faced.
Offensively, the team has relied more than most on set pieces, including corners, free-kicks, and penalties. Midfielder Quinn and forward Ward combined for 14 points, and Mariah Lee has four goals to her name as the starting center forward. Quinn, in particular, has become noticeably more effective in the final third this season, and has continued to be stone-cold from the spot. Ward’s strong form has elevated her to new heights with the national team, undoubtedly attracting attention from major clubs around the world.
Holly Ward | Photo Credit: Vancouver Rise
Summer addition Yuka Okamoto has already started to make her mark at fullback, providing quality service and registering an assist in two sub appearances. The Tokyo-born Okamoto looks poised to cement herself as a starter and a key contributor moving forward.
However, not all of the club’s international signings have yet to hit their expected heights. Players like Hagman, Sawan, and Vidlund have struggled to consistently influence matches, while injuries — including ACLs to Vidlund and Young — have further limited options.
Despite the setbacks, Vancouver’s strong fan support continues, with an average attendance of 4,335 (best in the league). The team will need to find greater defensive stability and more consistent attacking output if they hope to make a run for a playoff spot or more.