TORONTO – Two goals three minutes apart sent Toronto FC II on its way to a 3-0 victory against North Carolina FC at the BMO Training Center as Kobe Franklin notched assists on tallies by Jon-Talen Maples and Luca Petrasso to boost the Young Reds’ postseason chances.

After a scoreless first half, Toronto took the lead in the 65th minute as Franklin’s in-swinging free kick from the left was knocked home at close range by Maples for his first goal of the season. Two minutes later Petrasso doubled the advantage as Franklin was released into space on the right and delivered a picture-perfect cross that the midfielder volleyed into the right side of the net from 12 yards.

Paul Rothrock wrapped up all three points with 17 minutes to go as Franklin was again involved. A near-post corner kick from the left by the playmaker was headed onto the near upright by Maples, and the ball went across the goal line before hitting the right post and sitting up for Rothrock to tap home.

The result was a reward for a strong display by the hosts, who had 11 shots on goal to NCFC’s none, and broke a six-game winless streak for the side as it shifted back up the standings in the League One playoff race.

Both teams have home matches up next weekend, with TFC II hosting the New England Revolution II on Friday, Oct. 8 and NCFC taking on Chattanooga Red Wolves SC the following day.

USLLeagueOne.com Player of the Match

Kobe Franklin, Toronto FC II – Franklin produced a pair of assists and almost had a third while contributing six key passes and completing 21 of 30 passes overall.

Goal Summary
TOR (65') – Maples, assisted by Franklin
TOR (67') – Petrasso, assisted by Franklin
TOR (73') – Rothrock