TORONTO - The Rams women's soccer team fell 1-0 to their city rivals, the Toronto Varsity Blues, in their 2021 season opener Saturday afternoon.

Kickoff was at 12 p.m. and the first half flew by with the Rams back on the pitch for the first time in two years. Despite the team keeping even ball possession throughout the first 45 minutes, the Varsity Blues dominated the field, creating chances for seven shots at the net to the Rams' three. 

About 20 minutes in, Toronto midfielder Hannah Harkin managed two breakaways, but they were both blocked by Rams midfielder Christiana Daniel and goalie Elisa Lapadula, keeping the game scoreless at the end of the first.

The start of the second half saw an offensive push from the Rams and renewed strength on their defensive end. Notably, Rams defenders Keira Kent and Emily Porteus fought hard for ball possession, with a clean slide tackle from Porteus and quick ball movement from Kent and midfielder Skylar Sheehan-Alleyene. 

At the 65-minute mark, Toronto midfielder Hannah Chown sent a cross to forward Miranda Badovinac. Badovinac took a shot past Lapadula, Toronto opened scoring 1-0, and despite four of the five shots being saved by the Rams, the Varsity Blues maintained their lead until the end to take the win.

Head coach Natalie Bukovec isn't worried though.

"They're [U of T] a quality side; in 2019 they qualified for nationals and did quite well, so I think for us to come off a 1-0 loss isn't the worst thing. We've had a lot of roster changes...so today was a good opportunity for some of our younger players to play as well," Bukovec said, "It was still a good effort from everybody and we have a bright future ahead for the season." 

Moving forward, Bukovec says the team will likely continue with the same game plan, personnel, and style of play at next week's game when the Rams face Toronto again. 

"I think today's goal was a mistake on our part, and hopefully we can capitalize on the opportunities we can get [next game]," Bukovec said.

The Rams will look to even the series score next Saturday on Oct. 2 for their home opener. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. at Downsview Park.