Toronto FC’s Junior Academy team drew 1-1 with first placed Brampton Lions in the Canadian Soccer League Reserve Division on Saturday.

The Junior Reds were placed on the back foot almost immediately against the bigger and faster Brampton side. Brampton moved the ball quickly around the park as well as good runs off the ball; added to the physical differences it put the younger Academy players in doubt of their ability to win the ball.

Late into the first half Brampton were awarded a penalty to go deservedly 1-0 ahead. The game could have been sewn up before half by Brampton but for some missed opportunities and clearances off the line by Academy players.

As the second half opened the Academy began to play more football and believe in their ability to compete against a strong Brampton group and were deserving of the goal scored by Keven Aleman in the 70th minute on a ball played through by Andrew Curci. Following that goal the momentum swing for the Academy was evident and continued to press as they finished with a 4-3-3 formation.

“We were fortunate to draw today, but the players learned a valuable lesson and that is not to doubt yourself regardless the size, pace and power of the opposition,” said Academy Manager Stuart Neely. “You still have a job to do and if you work as one unit it can be accomplished. We have had a difficult time due to exams and focus of players, but that needs to change.”

“Players must find a good balance in their time management. These are skills that are life learning skills. I am pleased they changed their perspective at half-time. Congratulations to Brampton for a well played game, but they did not finish us off when they had the chance and again we were fortunate.”