After a strong preseason and a competitive start to the year, the Toronto Eagles hit the road for their first away game of the 2025 season as they take on the Grand River Gargoyles in #AFLOrd3. With key players returning to the lineup and plenty to prove, this match shapes as an important bounce-back opportunity for the Eagles.
Recent Performances
The Eagles are coming off a tough Round 2 loss in their season opener against the Toronto Dingos. Despite strong patches of play and signs of chemistry, the team couldn’t quite match the Dingos for four quarters. With some big inclusions this week, the squad is keen to reset and respond with a strong showing away from home.
Grand River Gargoyles form
It’s been a slow start to 2025 for the Grand River Gargoyles, who have dropped their opening two matches. The Gargoyles have struggled to generate scoring opportunities and are yet to find their rhythm offensively. Still, they’ll be eager to protect home turf and notch their first win of the season in front of a home crowd.
Key Players to Watch
For the Toronto Eagles, several returning players will be pivotal:
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- Ryan McNabb (Defense): The captain makes his season debut and will bring experience, leadership, and a steady hand across the middle of the ground.
- Braedy Walker (Midfield): One of the Eagles’ top performers last year, Walker is a huge inclusion. His pace, toughness in the midfield, will be crucial in breaking down the Gargoyles’ defensive setup.
- Jay Himat (Forward): Returning from a season-ending injury in 2024, Himat’s return to the forward line adds a new dimension. He’s dynamic, smart around goals, and can shift momentum in an instant.
Match Dynamics
The Eagles will look to move the ball quickly and apply pressure early to test a Gargoyles defence that’s already shown vulnerability this season. With their ability to spread from stoppage and strike in transition, the Eagles will aim to control the midfield and use their returning firepower up forward. Grand River, on the other hand, will likely look to slow the tempo, create stoppages, and grind out a low-scoring contest. Physicality and composure will be key in the early stages.
Venue
- Location: Margaret Greene Park, Guelph
- Date and Time: June 7, 2025 – 12:00 pm
Conclusion
With a refreshed lineup and plenty to prove, this is a chance for the Eagles to get their season back on track. The return of key leaders adds confidence and structure, and the team will be focused on playing four consistent quarters. A win on the road would be a big statement and a springboard into the middle stretch of the season.
📣 Catch the action this Saturday at Margaret Green Park, and back the Eagles as they rise again!