The Toronto Eagles have begun their 2014 campaign with a disappointing loss, falling to the Toronto Rebels by 52 points.

In what was a highly competitive match the Eagles, who were in control of the game after the first quarter, stumbled from then on to eventually lose 4.9 (33) to 12.13 (85).

The Eagles would head into the game undermanned, due to some late withdrawals, but would still field a competitive team in their season opening clash.

The game started at a frenetic pace as both sides wrestled to take control. After making better use of the limited chances up forward for both sides, the Eagles would take a slight advantage into the first break.

Heading into the second, the Eagles kept the pressure on the Rebels but couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard. Things were evenly matched until the Eagles they would lose top defenceman, Matt Bachinski, early in the quarter after he took a solid knock to the head. Bachinski would be unable to return for the rest of the game.

The Eagles will be left to rue missed chances in front of goal as things took a drastic turn, as their lack of numbers was exposed, which allowed the Rebels to control the game kicking four unanswered goals for the term.

Team captain Tasos Dimacakos reflected on his team’s breakdown, during the second quarter.

"I thought the second quarter was disappointing, but I felt we gutsed it out," commented Dimacakos.

"I know it didn't look like it on the scoreboard, but the endeavour was there."

The third and fourth quarters were a more competitive, but was all one way traffic on the scoreboard for the Rebels, as they kicked four goals to the Eagles' one.

The lack of numbers and wasted opportunities in front of goal hindered any chance of an Eagles comeback.

"Anytime you head into a game undermanned, you put yourself on the back foot," coach Aaron Falcioni stated.

“Things got tougher with the loss of Matty B, but I was pretty happy with how the boys fought hard throughout the game.”

Best on the day for the Eagles included veteran Troy Marsh. Marsh battled hard all day in defence, winning a lot of contested ball and playing his best match for the club. Ralph Koen, Kevin Minaker and Sean Kennedy also competed hard throughout the match.

The Eagles will look to get their first win when they face the travelling Ottawa Swans this weekend at Colonel Sam Smith Park.
 
TORONTO EAGLES         3.4    3.7    3.8    4.9 (33)
TORONTO REBELS         2.2    7.5    9.8    12.13 (85)

GOALS
Falcioni 3, Moses

BEST
Marsh, Koens, Kennedy, Minaker

INJURIES
Bachinski (concussion)

Reports: Nil