The No. 5 nationally ranked University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's soccer team defeated the No. 6 ranked TMU Bold 1-0 at Varsity Stadium on Friday (Sept. 19) night.

A 63^rd minute goal from third-year midfielder Medhi Essoussi was the difference maker for U of T in a U SPORTS Top 10 matchup against their OUA rival.

The first half saw U of T control possession while dominating the shots with an 8-3 advantage after the first 45 minutes. In the second half, TMU drew closer in possession as they generated good scoring chances but second-year goalkeeper Filip Zendelek was up to the task in net.

Toronto's attack was relentless throughout the match and the Blues were rewarded with a three kick in the 63^rd minute. On the free kick, fourth-year midfielder Michael Osorio went for the kick but faked out the Bold's defence as Essoussi fired the ball towards the goal. Essousi's strike curved to the left past TMU goalkeeper Dante Ferraro and into the back of the net, sending the U of T crowd into a frenzy.

As the half progressed the Blues remained strong on defence. TMU got a quality scoring chance in the box but strong play from Toronto made the shot difficult as the Bold hit the post.

U of T's attack continued to keep the Bold in the defensive zone, showing their relentless play for 90 minutes. When the final whistled sounded the Blue and White left the field with a victory.

Zendelek secured his third clean sheet of the season.

The Blues are back in action on Sunday (Sept. 21) afternoon at Varsity Stadium when they take on the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks. Kick off is scheduled for 3:15 p.m. with tickets available at varsityblues.ca/tickets. The game will also be streamed live on oua.tv.