Boychuk lifts Roses to NSL first-place pennant with late goal in 1-0 win over Rapid

MONTREAL — The Montreal Roses got a goal in the 81st minute from Tanya Boychuk and a shutout performance from goalkeeper Gabrielle Lambert to clinch first place in the Northern Super League with a 1-0 victory over the visiting Ottawa Rapid.

The Roses went into Friday’s regular-season ending match needing a win or tie to top the six-team women’s circuit. The Roses finished with 45 points — 12 wins, four losses, nine draws — while the Rapid finished with 40 points — 12 wins, nine losses, four draws.

If AFC Toronto beats the visiting Halifax Tides on Monday, Toronto — currently with 38 points — will finish second.

Montreal had an edge in possession on Friday against Ottawa — 53 per cent to 47 — and fired more shots 16-6, including a 4-1 advantage in on-target shots.