On a blustery Saturday afternoon at the Zanchin Automotive Soccer Centre in Vaughan, Burlington Force Prospects claimed the U15 Boys 2024 MilkUP Ontario Cup title with a 3-0 victory over Kitchener TFC Academy.

The match began with Kitchener TFC nearly capitalizing off a corner kick, but the ball sailed just over the crossbar. Burlington quickly shifted the momentum, opening the scoring in the 9th minute. Andreas Zaprianov made a brilliant run down the wing and delivered a precise low cross to Ethan Thomas, who calmly slotted the ball past the diving Kitchener keeper, giving Burlington an early 1-0 lead.

Kitchener’s goalkeeper, Jackson Rito, had a busy afternoon, making several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. In the 32nd minute, Rito denied Zaprianov from close range, and moments later, Zaprianov’s follow-up attempt found the side netting.

Burlington doubled their lead in the 37th minute, this time courtesy of a long-range strike from Zaprianov, who had been relentless in his efforts to find the back of the net.

The second half saw Burlington maintaining their attacking pressure. Zaprianov tested the Kitchener defence again early in the half but couldn't quite add to his tally. Matteo Caloura took two shots in quick succession, in the 64th and 66th minutes, but Rito remained sharp, pulling off key saves to keep Kitchener’s hopes alive.

Burlington's Lucas Lizsek also came close to extending the lead in the 68th minute, but once again, Rito was equal to the task. Shortly after, Zaprianov and Thomas tried to recreate the magic of their opening goal. However, Thomas sent the ball over the net this time.

Zaprianov sealed the victory in the 79th minute, connecting with an impeccable cross from Justin Beaudry. Zaprianov’s second goal of the day secured Burlington's 3-0 win and capped off an impressive performance.

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