Friday, November 1, 2019 -- Arizona's Nick DeLeon added an exclamation point to what has already been one of his best seasons as a pro when he scored the game-winning goal for Toronto FC against Atlanta United in the Major League Soccer Eastern Conference Championships.
With the match even in the 78th minute, DeLeon collected a square pass at the top of the box. He dribbled into space and fired a screamer into the back of the net. This was DeLeon's second goal in the playoffs this year - he scored in the first round against his former team D.C. United. The game-winning goal is just another highlight in was has been arguably his best season as a pro. He tied his career high in goals and assists with six and four, respectively. The last time he did this was when he was a rookie in 2012 with D.C. United. Toronto FC now face Seattle Sounders in the MLS Championships match on November 10.
DeLeon wasn't the only Arizona native making noise this past week as Ahwatukee's Tate Schmitt enjoyed his best match as a professional against Orange County FC in the USL Championship Quarterfinals. Schmitt, a rookie, scored a goal and assisted on three goals. His Real Monarchs now face Phoenix Rising FC in the Conference Semifinals tonight.