The 2008 match resulted in a 2-1 victory for Real Toronto, but this outcome was later over-turned on account of a player eligibility infraction with the result that London EAK represented Ontario in the annual quest for the Challenge Cup at the Club Nationals in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
With many of the same players contesting the 2009 title, the stage was set for an action-packed game with a low tolerance for unsportsmanlike conduct on both sides.
And the teams did not disappoint with a fine display of hard, fast, end-to-end attacks and parries from the starting whistle.
Real Toronto came inches from opening the scoring in the 20th minute when #9 Kadian Lecky saw his effort from inside the box come back off the post.
Three minutes later, Real Toronto would not be denied when London goal-keeper Paul Azevedo did well to save the first close-range shot from #19 Alex Lopez but could do nothing to stop #15 Matthew Rios from tucking away the rebound to put Real Toronto up 1-0.
London nearly equalized in the 34th minute from a corner kick when #13 Trevor Medeiros blasted a close-range shot brilliantly saved by Real goal-keeper Pablo Alvarado.
At the half-time whistle, the score stood at 1-0 in favour of Real.
London came out with increased pace and intensity in the second half determined to level the game.
And they were rewarded in the 56th minute when a low cross from the right side came all the way across the goal face and connected perfectly with #2 Ryan Avola’s stride as he re-directed the ball into the open side.
With vociferous support from their boisterous supporters, the action-packed play continued fast, intense and physical on both sides as the teams traded chances (and several yellow cards) but were unable to find the back of the net.
In the 84th minute, #17 Matthew Rios turned and fired a right-footed blast from inside the box to the bottom-left corner to give Real Toronto a late 2-1 lead with his second marker of the game.
With time running out, the late goal set up a pressure-filled and exciting close to the match as London AEK threw all they had left at Real.
At the final whistle, London AEK was still looking for the equalizer as Real Toronto defended their 2-1 lead to claim the 2009 Ontario Cup.
Coaches’ Comments:
Reported by Rob Ferrari / OSA Competition & Events Coordinator
Photos & Video by Wolf Ruck / OSA