Assessing Forge FC’s Goalkeeper Situation Ahead of the New CPL Season
Forge FC has experienced a notably uneventful off-season in the Canadian Premier League (CPL)—and it’s not without reason. Fresh from their third playoff title in four league seasons, Forge’s settled squad and strong team chemistry have decreased transfer activity. Despite this stability, the club faces an urgent question as kickoff approaches: who will provide depth and competition for Triston Henry, their long-serving starting goalkeeper?
Current Goalkeeper Roster and Critical Gaps
As the new season draws near, Forge has yet to make any significant signings or officially announce key contract renewals, including that of captain Kyle Bekker. The most notable retention is Triston Henry, whose reliable performances and compatibility with Forge’s possession-oriented tactics have made him indispensable since the club’s debut in 2019. However, the absence of a backup keeper—or any serious challenger for the number one shirt—creates vulnerability. Should Henry become unavailable, Forge would lack a proven alternative, a rare scenario for a top CPL club.
Understanding the CPL’s Dynamic Transfer Market
Forge’s subdued transfer window contrasts with the CPL’s typically high turnover. Due to the short-term nature of most player contracts and the influx of young talent from sources like the U-SPORTS draft, player movement is commonplace each year. Goalkeepers, in particular, frequently move between teams or trial with clubs across various levels, including semi-professional leagues such as League1 Ontario. Recent standouts in lower divisions include Praveen Ahilan (Alliance United) and Svyatik Artemenko (Guelph), who impressed during the previous season.
Departed CPL Goalkeepers and Potential Opportunities
Several high-profile goalkeeper departures have shaped the market this off-season:
– Jonathan Sirois, after excelling with Valour FC, returned to CF Montreal, likely backing up James Pantemis.
– Sebastian Breza has moved back to Italy to join Carrarese, opening up opportunities in Montreal.
– Halifax Wanderers parted ways with Christian Oxner and, more surprisingly, Kieran Baskett. While Oxner struggled for regular minutes, Baskett, only 21, managed five clean sheets in nine appearances and demonstrated a strong save percentage (close to 70%). However, he requires further development in distribution and decision-making under pressure.
Baskett’s profile—raw yet promising, with an impressive long pass completion rate (71%) and progressive play—makes him a candidate for clubs seeking a high-upside, Canadian-born backup.
What Forge Needs in a Goalkeeper Recruit
Forge’s established system relies on a goalkeeper who contributes to structured, possession-focused buildup. Ideally, the backup would either mirror Henry’s strengths or offer a distinct skill set that complements the team’s approach. The search should focus on Canadian keepers with proven distribution, shot-stopping, and the tactical intelligence to read play from the back.
Profiles of Top Goalkeeper Options
| Player | Age | Current Club | Key Attributes | Potential Fit for Forge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isaac Boehmer | 21 | Whitecaps 2 |
– Highly accurate distribution (79% completion into final third) – Commands penalty area well – Aggressive sweeper tendencies – 71% save rate |
Matches Forge’s possession demands; proven under pressure. Lower depth behind MLS starters may open role at Forge. |
| Axel Desjardins | 23 | Novara (Serie C, Italy) |
– 82.4% forward passing accuracy – Concedes less than one goal per 90 mins (0.86) – Superior expected goals (xG) allowed (0.92) – Experienced in European football, strong with feet |
Stylistically similar to Henry; ready for a Canadian return to challenge for international attention. |
| Kieran Baskett | 21 | Last at HFX Wanderers |
– 5 clean sheets in 9 appearances – Nearly 70% save percentage – Excellent long passing (71%) – Consistent progressive distribution |
Promising backup prospect; good developmental fit for a strong CPL environment. |
| Jonathan Sirois | 21 | CF Montreal |
– Commanding sweeper – Gained first MLS minutes – Still developing technical skills |
Unlikely to leave MLS for CPL at this stage, but notable for future consideration. |
Ideal Candidates: Analysis & Strategic Recommendations
Of the candidates available, Axel Desjardins stands out for his passing accuracy, composure, and defensive numbers, closely mirroring the attributes of Henry. His sustained experience in Italy and proven effectiveness with the ball at his feet would make his transition to Forge seamless.
Isaac Boehmer is a close second, with standout distribution and a history of assertive play outside the penalty area. His potential promotion within the Whitecaps is uncertain given recent signings, making the CPL’s top club a logical next step for more consistent match time.
Kieran Baskett is a developmental option who brings youthful upside and is likely to embrace the challenge of learning behind an established starter.
Conclusion: Building on Stability for Future Success
With the season fast approaching, Forge FC’s priority should be to secure a backup goalkeeper who maintains their tactical identity and provides reliable support in all competitions. The following ranking summarizes the best Canadian talent available to fill this vital role:
- Axel Desjardins (Novara)
- Isaac Boehmer (Whitecaps 2)
- Kieran Baskett (free agent, formerly HFX Wanderers)
- Jonathan Sirois (CF Montreal)
Retaining Triston Henry as the undisputed starter provides short-term security, but adding one of these candidates will ensure Forge’s ongoing stability and competitive edge as they defend their CPL title.
Stay tuned for further updates as the transfer window develops and clubs finalize their squads for the new campaign.
