“AFC Toronto Clinches Top Spot with Late Win Over Montreal”

AFC Toronto secured a victory against Montreal Roses with a 2-1 score in the closing match of the Northern Super League’s first regular season, propelling them into the playoffs. The game saw Montreal’s Alexandria Hess scoring first in the 10th minute, taking advantage of an open net as Toronto goalkeeper Sierra Cota-Yarde made a high save attempt. Toronto equalized in the 42nd minute when Lauren Rowe delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box, allowing Sarah Stratigakis to score and tie the game at 1-1. The winning goal came from Nikayla Small in the 86th minute at York Lions Stadium. Both teams are set to face off again in the upcoming NSL playoffs commencing on November 1. Toronto, with a season record of 16-6-3, clinched the top spot in the league standings, earning the Supporters’ Shield, while Montreal, with a record of 10-9-6, secured the fourth position.