The competition might change, but Sebastian Giovinco continues to be a difference-maker.

A 43rd-minute goal from Giovinco gave Toronto FC the advantage in the Amway Canadian Championship on Tuesday night, as they picked up a 1-0 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the first leg of the series at BMO Field.

The talented Italian found the back of the net via a deflected shot just before halftime, and Toronto's defense held firm to ensure that the Reds walked away victorious. Giovinco struck at the end of a tight first half that saw both teams battle mostly in the midfield. He made a diagonal dribbling run on the play, and fired a shot that nicked off Vancouver center back Kendall Waston before rolling into the back of the net.

Toronto FC will try to protect their lead and raise the Canadian championship trophy against the Whitecaps when they meet again in the decisive leg of the series at BC Place on June 29.