The No. 6 University of Toronto Varsity Blues men’s soccer team defeated the Laurentian Voyageurs by a score of 2-0 on Saturday, October 16 at Varsity Centre.

The contest began with some tough physical confrontations as both teams looked to impose their presence on the field.

The Blues forward line combination of Nordo Gooden (Kingston, JA) and Toronto native Alexander Raphael took the play to the Voyageurs defence and their continued pressure eventually led to vulnerability in the back line. This resulted in an excellent opportunity for Dylan Bams (Fanny Bay B.C.), who nailed a shot off the crossbar in the 14th minute.

Gooden continued the pressure, making a quick run down the left side and sending a dangerous cross toward goal that was safely taken by Voyageurs keeper Scott Cliff (Hammer, Ont.).

The visitors created some offence of their own in the 20th minute as Sudbury native Rudy Muteba kicked a hard shot low that forced John Smits (Mississauga, Ont.) to make an outstanding diving stop.

Raphael sent a strong ball in to Gooden but the fourth-year player could not muster enough power on his shot to get it past Cliff. After an excellent pass reception, Raphael wound his way though the opposing defence and sent a pass to the opposite post. Gooden charged in and would not be denied again as he sent a wonderful sliding tip into the back of the net putting the Blues up 1-0 going into half time.

Gooden picked up right where he left off, scoring his second of the match only a couple of minutes into the second half. Cliff came way off his line, allowing Gooden to place the ball past him in the low left corner.

Although both teams exchanged chances throughout the half, neither side managed to find the net again - the final score would remain 2-0.

Smits made three saves to preserve the shutout for the Blues and Gooden moves into share of the team scoring lead with Raphael as both players have six goals on the season.

The Varsity Blues extend their winning streak to seven games and continue to lead the overall OUA standings with 29 points.

You can catch the next Varsity Blues home game on Saturday, October 17 when Toronto hosts the Nipissing Lakers at Varsity Centre. Game time is scheduled for 8:15 p.m.

For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite Toronto teams, please visit the home of the Varsity Blues at http://www.varsityblues.ca