RECAP | Fury FC 0, Eddies 0

Photo Credit: Steve Kingsman

The growing rivalry between Ottawa Fury FC and FC Edmonton lived up to expectations Friday night at TD Place, and while goals were at a premium, Ottawa gained a valuable point in the 0-0 draw.

“We’re very solid, and it is not just the back four or the defensive midfield – it’s the full squad. We are growing and becoming a team,” Fury FC Head Coach Marc Dos Santos said.

"Every point is important in this league," Dos Santos added. "We may not have got the win, but we didn't lose. That is an important mentality to have as we build a winning culture in this club." 

In an attack-oriented first half, Fury FC went back and forth with Edmonton, as both teams produced threatening opportunities in the attacking third. The best Ottawa chances in the first half came from forward Carl Haworth, midfielder Sinisa Ubiparipovic, and a header from defender Colin Falvey. Ottawa kept buzzing for that first goal of the Canadian derby with even more strikes coming from Ubiparipovic, and Brandon Poltronieri joined in on the attacking chances. 

Early in the second half, Haworth would have a great chance for Ottawa, as his right-footed volley in the box deflected just wide due to a great save by Eddies goalkeeper John Smits. Ottawa continued to push the Eddies deep into their own half and the shots kept coming, but nothing seemed to go in Ottawa's favor. 

The 75th minute would feature the best chance of the match, as Fury FC forward Paulo Junior would set up midfielder Nicki Paterson in the middle in the Eddies’ box, but Smits would make a great stop to deny Paterson of a sure goal. 

Ottawa’s defensive core of Mason Trafford, Falvey, Rafael Alves, and Ryan Richter remained confident holding off Edmonton's recognized pace and strength.

Fury FC goalkeeper Romuald Peiser would keep Edmonton’s attack at bay when called upon earning his third consecutive shutout and fourth of the season. It was the first time the Eddies have been shutout all season. Smits, at the other end, recorded the first shutout of the season for FC Edmonton.