Launch the Boats. A derby out at sea was the only way to kick off the budding rivalry between Island-based Pacific FC and their new neighbors Vancouver FC. It’s always a special occasion when a team makes its pro debut, and it’s even better when it’s kicked off with a cross-water match between emerging adversaries. Vancouver FC made the trek to Pacific FC shores hoping to start their foray into the CPL by upsetting the storied hosts. The club had been announced all the way back in 2021, and the two-year journey to the opening whistle had led them 60 miles off the mainland. As most derbies go, it was a tense affair throughout, with only one goal eventually making all the difference. Manny Aparicio’s wonder strike in the 80th minute won it for the hosts and broke the hearts of the newcomers, but the result was only secondary. The defeat will be forgotten as Vancouver FC will surely conquer a growing soccer fanbase in British Columbia. For now, though, BC stays purple as Pacific FC remain...