Eagles take flight late in game

Friday, June 12

Toronto Eagles 1 - 2 Serbian White Eagles

The Toronto Eagles U12 team woke up and put the pressure on after a slow start to their game against the Serbian White Eagles, but it was too little too late. The team battled to the end but lost 2 -1.

The Eagles seemed tentative throughout the first half. The boys had trouble creating scoring opportunities and came up short on one-on-one challenges. They also committed many throw-in fouls.

Shortly before the first-half whistle, the Serbian White Eagles took advantage of uncontested space outside the 18-yard box. One of their big players took a touch and booted the ball into the top of the net. 1- 0 for the Serbian White Eagles.

The second half started slowly, with neither side pressing hard. But the Eagles began to move the ball better as the half progressed.

A cross to Simon and his well-placed shot put the ball in the back of the net. However, the cheering from the sidelines quickly died down after the referee called the play offside. The goal was disallowed.

At about the midway point of the second half the Serbian White Eagles struck again. As with the first goal, the Eagles were unable to close down the space outside the 18-yard box. One of the White Eagles' big players stepped into the area and kicked the ball into the top of our net.

But instead of a collective shrug and hoping for a better outcome in the upcoming weekend tournament, the boys now came alive.

Energized, the Eagles pushed forward and began to put much pressure on the Serbian side's defense. The boys started winning one-on-one challenges and showed real grit.

From from the sidelines, the Eagles' supporters cheered them on, exhorting them to keep up the pressure. And they did.

The Eagles' efforts were finally rewarded. A lovely bit of ball control by Evan allowed him to create some open space and he booted the ball in the net. Goal!

The Eagles knew the clock was against them and that they couldn't let up. Again the boys pressed forward and had chances to equalize.

Unfortunately, with less than five minutes remaining in the match, a hard tackle left Evan on the pitch grimacing in pain. The game was delayed as Coach Lawson attended to the injured player while concerned teammates and parents looked on.

The match eventually resumed. As the seconds ticked away, the Eagles continued to play hard and looked for the equalizer. But it was not to be on this night.