The wait is over and professional soccer has overtaken the Apple Bowl’s pitch as the Canadian Premier League prepares for Sunday’s matchup between Vancouver and Cavalry FC for the first stop of the CPL On Tour campaign.
Although not at their usual clubhouse in Langley, Vancouver will be the home team on Sunday.
Both teams have spent the past few days training, getting used to the area and making their presence felt.
Thanks to @vanfootballclub for visiting some of our elementary learners while you're in the Central Okanagan! The kids loved learning from the pros and getting autographs! #TogetherWeInspireWonder pic.twitter.com/fZgmk6FQii
— Central Okanagan Public Schools (@SD23News) June 15, 2024
For the athletes, Sunday’s game carries the excitement of being in a new environment, but also the same responsibilities as a normal match.
“It's normal business, but it is also special – It's kind of both, just because we're playing in a different place that we're not used to coming to in the CPL,” said Cavalry’s Shamit Shome, who is used to their home field in Calgary.
“We're used to going to the same places two times a year. So it's cool to come somewhere different, especially a place like Kelowna in the summer.”
Vancouver is in third place in the standings with a 4-2-3 record on the season, while Cavalry is not far behind in fifth place and coming off a win.
“We started a bit slow, but we're starting to make some progress,” added Shome.
“I think we're excited to see how we can kind of take this next chunk of the games and push forward.”
Training is underway at the Apple Bowl as @CPLCavalryFC prepares to take on @vanfootballclub on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/79cJFMNOHK
— KelownaNow (@KelownaNow) June 15, 2024
Vancouver will have their eyes set on beating Cavalry for the first time in the club’s short history since being founded in 2023.
Kick off is at 2 pm and tickets can be purchased online at this link.
