The Vancouver Victory kicked off their 2025 EPLWA season in emphatic fashion, defeating Rat City FC 5-3 in a high-octane home opener at Harmony Sports Complex.
It was a dream start for the Victory, as Hakim Keita opened the scoring in the 1st minute, finishing off a sharp ball from Pablo Barbosa. Just 11 minutes later, Barbosa doubled the lead with a goal of his own, capping off a brilliant opening spell.
In the 17th minute, the Victory struck again—this time through Andrew Altukoff, who was set up by Keita to make it 3-0. The home side looked in full control before Rat City pulled one back in the 38th minute, sending the teams into halftime at 3-1.
After the break, JP Warnell delivered the moment of the match with a solo run from over 60 yards out, weaving through defenders and slotting home in the 47th minute. He added his second in the 79th minute, capitalizing on a precise assist from Lucas Houghton to stretch the lead to 5-1. Goalkeeper Alejandro Roque contributed key saves to help maintain the lead,
Rat City made it interesting with goals in the 86th and 89th minutes, but the early damage done by Vancouver proved enough to secure all three points.
Discipline played a role in the second half, with Wilson Fresh, James Duggan, and Lucas Houghton all picking up yellow cards for Vancouver. Rat City received four yellow cards, including one issued to their head coach.
The Victory will now turn their attention to next weekend as they look to continue their winning form in EPLWA play.
