The No. 5 nationally ranked University of Toronto Varsity Blues women’s soccer team dropped a 2-1 decision to the RMC Paladins on Saturday, Sept. 26, in Kingston, Ontario, according to University of Toronto Athletics reporting. The loss leaves the Blues looking to rebound quickly as they prepare to face Carleton University on Sunday, Sept. 27.
University of Toronto Varsity Blues Fall 2-1 to RMC Paladins in Kingston
Early Pressure and Scoreless First Half
Toronto established an aggressive tempo right from the opening whistle. The visitors tested RMC goalkeeper Brianna West early, forcing her to turn aside a scoring chance from first-year midfielder Mikaela Milczarek, as detailed by University of Toronto Athletics. RMC answered in the 22nd minute when first-year Blues goalkeeper Neya Sidhu denied an attempt by Annika Martens. Third-year forward Beatrice Audain maintained steady pressure for Toronto throughout the opening 45 minutes, but both defensive units held firm to keep the match scoreless heading into halftime.
Second-Half Surge and Late Goals
The Paladins broke the deadlock shortly after the break in the 47th minute. Bellarosa Ternes set up Angelica Labelle for the game’s opening goal. Despite falling behind, Toronto continued to fight for an equalizer in the second half, firing seven shots toward the RMC net, and Sidhu finished the match with three saves. RMC extended its lead in the 78th minute when Labelle struck again for her second goal of the afternoon. The Blues continued fighting into the final minute, and in the 90th minute, third-year midfielder Kimee Liu connected with fourth-year defender Natasha Budisa. Budisa capitalized to cut the deficit to 2-1, marking her second goal in as many games, though the Blues ran out of time to find an equalizer.
Upcoming Matchup Against Carleton Ravens
The Varsity Blues hit the road again on Sunday, Sept. 27, traveling to the nation’s capital to face the Carleton Ravens at 1:00 p.m. Kick-off is scheduled at Carleton University, with a live stream available on oua.tv, per University of Toronto Athletics.
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