AFC Toronto secured a 2-0 victory over the Montreal Roses in the first leg of the Northern Super League semifinal on Saturday. The goals came from Nikayla Small in the seventh minute and Kaylee Hunter in the 70th minute. The second leg will be held on November 9 at York Lions Stadium.
Toronto coach Marko Milanovic expressed confidence in his team’s ability to win the upcoming game, emphasizing their consistent preparation since the preseason. Goalkeeper Sierra Cota-Yarde played a crucial role in maintaining a clean sheet for Toronto at Stade Boréale in Laval, Que.
Milanovic acknowledged the competitive nature of the match, praising both teams for their opportunities. He highlighted Toronto’s efficient finishing and strong defensive performance, especially from Cota-Yarde and the backline, who played together for the first time this season.
The coach also credited the medical team for managing player injuries effectively, attributing their contribution to the team’s success. In the other semifinal, Ottawa Rapid FC will face the Vancouver Rise at TD Place on Tuesday. The winners of the semifinals will advance to the championship match on November 15 at BMO Field in Toronto.
Small and Hunter’s goals were essential for Toronto’s victory, with Small capitalizing on a scoring opportunity early in the game. Hunter showcased her skill by evading defenders to score a decisive goal. Small highlighted the importance of scoring early to settle the team’s nerves in challenging weather conditions.
Hunter, a standout player at 17, ranked second in scoring in the NSL’s inaugural season and was named Rookie of the Year. Toronto finished at the top of the NSL standings with 16 wins, led by Milanovic, while the Roses secured the final playoff spot with a 10-9-6 record.
