Metro Lions put the bite on their competition
Scarborough


Sam Laskaris More from this author
Oct. 23, 2002

Most first-year franchises have their share of growing pains but somebody obviously neglected to tell that to the Metro Lions.
The Scarborough-based club, which competes in the Canadian Professional Soccer League, had a successful inaugural campaign.

The Lions, who played their home contests at Birchmount Stadium, posted an impressive 11-6-2 regular season record, finishing third in their seven-team Eastern Conference.

The Lions also won their first playoff contest before losing a 1-0 decision to the Ottawa Wizards in a CPSL semifinal contest this past Saturday in North York.

The Wizards went on to win the league final by blanking the host North York Astros 2-0 on Sunday in a game at Esther Shiner Stadium.

Lions coach Aldwyn McGill wasn't entirely satisfied with what his squad accomplished this season. "It would have been better if we had won the championship," he said. "I guess we'll have to do that next year."

McGill said it is a bit of a consolation having his team's season end at the hands of the Wizards, the eventual league champs. "We match up well against them," he said. "That's the measuring stick of the league."

McGill began the season as the Lions president and general manager. He took over the coaching duties when the club got off to a 3-3-0 start.

McGill then guided the Lions to an 8-3-2 record during their final 13 contests. For his efforts he was chosen as the CPSL's coach of the year. He received his award at the league banquet held on Sunday.

McGill said it's too early to speculate whether he will continue to be the team's coach, GM and president next year. "Now I just want to rest," he said.

If McGill does relinquish some responsibilities, chances are he'll do so by bringing in another coach. "As far as running the organization, I don't think that will be a problem," he added.

McGill also believes the Lions do have to make some personnel changes.

"We've got to bring in a few midfielders and a couple of more forwards that can really score," he said. "As far as our defence, I think we have the best defence anywhere."


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