Just as they did in 2019, Forge FC is preparing to host and kick off the Canadian Premier League again this April. The CPL's reigning champions will open the new CPL season with a Finals 2019 rematch vs. Cavalry FC at Tim Hortons Field on Saturday, April 11. Hamilton also did the season-opening honours in CPL's inaugural campaign last year when Forge hosted York9 FC. Speaking to TSN 1150 Hamilton, Forge FC President and COO Matt Afinec said the second-straight season opener is a big honour for the club. "We want to follow other big leagues in creating marquee matchups to kick off the season," Afinec said during the Marsh and Melo Show with Marshall Ferguson and Kyle Melo. "We'll be able to build momentum from that match going into our second season." Forge FC President and COO Matt Afinec speaks to the Marsh and Melo Show on TSN 1150 with Marshall Ferguson and Kyle Melo. Listen to the full interview here. The April 11 tilt opens Forge’s slate of 14 home matches, which were unveiled last Friday when the full schedule was released. Unlike 905 Derby rivals York9, Forge’s 2020 home schedule shifts largely to Saturdays, with three Friday or Sunday home dates late in the season. "Continuity of date and time is very important for people," Afinec said. "There’s a great balance with these Saturday afternoons and nights. Making sure we have a good balance is what we tried to do in Hamilton." Afinec added Forge will move all lower bowl seating to the east side of the stadium for 2020 – a similar move Valour FC has made at Investors Group Field – to create a more "intimate setting" in-stadium.

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