Pre/In/Post - Game 9: Toronto at Colorado, Sat 5 May, 9pm

[Yohan]

We will see what this team is made out of by the response they put out for this game.

TFC has never been really good at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. The altitude is a bitch to deal with, esp considering TFC played on Wed. Tired legs plus altitude and fitness is going to be an issue.

Colorado has the worst injury crisis ever, and essentially playing with their 'B' team right now. Even then, they are getting results, backstopped by Clint Irwin who is putting on a show on goal. Unlucky to get only a draw at Houston for their last game. I wouldn't underestimate Colorado.

A draw would be a fantastic result. But all I want to see is TFC to play with some pride

[Marc"2L"]

This game should tell us a lot about where we'll end up at the end of the summer, we need points if we want to flirt with the playoffs and ultimately drop off in August.

[OgtheDim]

We could do with an early goal created through nice link up play and a fine shot.

[TFC07]

Must win game now! Draws aren't good enough anymore if we want to make it to the playoffs. After last game, I except the players to be playing with a lot of heart and pride.

[Auzzy]

Playoffs? Yhgtbfkm!

[TFC07]

Playoffs? Yhgtbfkm!

Why not? If we can somehow manage to stay close to playoff race and get quality players during the summer time, then it's possible we can squeeze in the last playoff spot in the east.

[Ultra & Proud]

Why not? If we can somehow manage to stay close to playoff race and get quality players during the summer time, then it's possible we can squeeze in the last playoff spot in the east.

Because this is supposed to be a building year and the last thing I personally want to see is us try to load up pricey players in the summer to take a run at it and then be stuck with overpaid shite. For reference look at our first 6 seasons.

[TFC07]

Because this is supposed to be a building year and the last thing I personally want to see is us try to load up pricey players in the summer to take a run at it and then be stuck with overpaid shite. For reference look at our first 6 seasons.We already signed one DP and there's more players (including a rumour DP) coming during the summer. When comes to signing players, I think KP has done a decent job of getting players for good deals (though I personally don't like transfer fee for Laba, but he only counts $200K in salary cap). We have to trust KP and his abilities to sign players without killing cap space.

[ProfessorDamage]

To this day when i think of TFC playing at Dick's, I picture Julian fucking De Guzman jumping out of the way of a free kick as it hurtles into our net. Bad vibe about Saturday, but TFC may be looking to make a statement after last night, so it might at least be entertaining. Either that, or, you know, Paul Beirne will be tweeting at their FO, congratulating them on a win.

[Detroit_TFC]

We'll have a better line up and Colorado is vulnerable. If the boys' heads are still in Montreal, we'll lose. We'll just have to see what happens.

[Yohan]

Laba apparently is cleared to play. Assuming none of the injured guys are available

-----------Bendik
-Richter-Boss-ODea-Morgan
-Lambe-Hall-Laba-Bostock
-----------Silva
---------Earnshaw

I'd very much love to sit both Richter and Morgan out of this one, but no choice

[Phil]

Because this is supposed to be a building year and the last thing I personally want to see is us try to load up pricey players in the summer to take a run at it and then be stuck with overpaid shite. For reference look at our first 6 seasons.

Oh thank goodness some see the light at the end of the tunnel. Long term is more than 1 year....hard to understand with the parade of coaches and players but we need to think bigger.

[Auzzy]

As per Twitter, the only players not travelling to Colorado (& San Jose) are Dunfield & Ecks. Koevermans is coming along to continue with his "preseason" training. I think the other FBs (Russell & Emory) are close even if not fully fit yet. My guess is one of them (probably Emory) plays on Saturday.

[Yohan]

for those of you keeping score, 5 out of last 7 games that TFC gave up a goal 89mins or later.

[Auzzy]

Taking a closer look at Colorado's record this season: they don't seem as good at home as they have been in the past. Also, their overall record this season isn't much better than TFC -- they are also one of the teams closer to the bottom of the league.

Colorado: 2 wins, 4 losses, 3 ties, 9 points, 9 games played, 1 point per game, -2 goal difference
TFC: 1 win, 3 losses, 4 ties, 7 points, 8 games played, 0.88 points per game, -2 goal difference (with more goals both scored & conceded by TFC)

Colorado's home & away goal difference are the same so far this season -- surprising given the altitude of their stadium. I suppose it may depend on their exact home & away opponents so far, their injury situation for different games, etc. The MLS website is incredibly slow for me at the moment, so I can't look up more details right now.

Given the altitude & everything else, I would be especially concerned about TFC players who put in lots of minutes yesterday (plus last weekend in many cases), and are normally part of Nelsen's "first team." I'm thinking in particular of any FB from last night that can't be replaced tomorrow -- as they suck anyway, and will also be tired, shell-shocked, and insecure. (Emory & Russell are travelling with the team, but no idea if they will be fit yet for Saturday.) Earnshaw also worries me in particular -- he put in lots of miles the past two games. Some of the midfielders also played significant minutes -- but there's a bit more flexibility there, with Laba coming in, and a bit of squad rotation possible.

A big problem: TFC have done better when they applied lots of high pressure from the start, attacked in numbers with the ball, etc. You can't do that for 90 minutes in Colorado.

Sadly, I'm expecting absolutely nothing. I hope they rebound & don't embarrass TFC again. For a coach that preached building from a solid defense, last night & also the late breakdowns in other games are hugely embarrassing.

(Next Wednesday in San Jose doesn't get any easier. Given the Goonies penchant for late goals, TFC better be carrying a 3-goal lead into injury time if they're hoping to come out with a tie...)

[notthesun]

Emory might be able to come back for this one I thought. If so, sit Morgan. #NastyLeftBench

I don't care to discuss our prospects of winning or tying or whatever. After the embarrassment in Montreal all I want to see is some heart, some fire from the guys. That was the first game under Nelsen where we gave up and I hope it's the last.

[Abou Sky]

for those of you keeping score, 5 out of last 7 games that TFC gave up a goal 89mins or later.

So we need to be ahead by two goals ;-)

[Abou Sky]

Emory might be able to come back for this one I thought. If so, sit Morgan. #NastyLeftBench

I don't care to discuss our prospects of winning or tying or whatever. After the embarrassment in Montreal all I want to see is some heart, some fire from the guys. That was the first game under Nelsen where we gave up and I hope it's the last.

That is really all I wanted out of this season. Just play with heart.

I coached a Futsal team that lost EVERY game last year, 8 year old kids didn't give up, my pro team had better not either.

[Oldtimer]

Playoffs? Yhgtbfkm!

+1
People get delusional in Toronto. Then they get angry because their improbable expectations weren't met.

I actually have a good feeling about this game. I expect a draw.

[Joe Kool]

I have no feelings about this game. Still numb from Wednesday. I think TFC will get tired later on so they need to make an impact (no pun intended) in the first half then hold on for the second half. Looking forward to seeing Laba if he plays.

[Dreadlocks]

i don't know what's going on with Laba's eligibility to play on Saturday but I just saw him on King street on my way to work. Has the team not left for Colorado?

[Auzzy]

i don't know what's going on with Laba's eligibility to play on Saturday but I just saw him on King street on my way to work. Has the team not left for Colorado?

I haven't seen any tweets about the team flying out, so maybe they're still in Toronto & leaving this afternoon. Nelsen did clarify that Laba is eligible to play & would be coming on the trip. Still possible of course that somebody lost his passport... ;)

[GBV]

Is this game even on TV?

The spot at the official website that lists the TV channel is blank for this game.

[Joe Kool]

Is this game even on TV?

The spot at the official website that lists the TV channel is blank for this game.

Sportsnet Ontario at 9PM

[Yohan]

Sportsnet Ontario at 9PM
moved to the Score at 9pm

[mastermixer]

moved to the Score at 9pm
Rogers bought this channel up too. So I guess we have to deal with the scrolling score board at the bottom of the game then?

[Kayaker]

Also, this game is MLS stream of the week:

http://www.mlssoccer.com/stream-of-the-week

[jloome]

---------------Bendik-----------
Russell----Boss--O'Dea----Emory
----------Laba-----Hall----------
--Bostock-----Silva--------Lambe
-------------Earnshaw------------

[MG42]

moved to the Score at 9pm


Well that's great, move it to a channel that you need the extra package for. This team is infuriating

[v00d00daddy]

---------------Bendik-----------
Russell----Boss--O'Dea----Emory
----------Laba-----Hall----------
--Bostock-----Silva--------Lambe
-------------Earnshaw------------

WIth those fullbacks I'd be worried that Bostock and Lambe would have a lot of work to do to work balls in to the middle of the park. Relying on Hall and a guy who has never played for us before to be the only links between the back line and silva is worrisome.

We shall see.

[denime]

Because this is supposed to be a building year and the last thing I personally want to see is us try to load up pricey players in the summer to take a run at it and then be stuck with overpaid shite. For reference look at our first 6 seasons.

BINGO !!!

I can care less about playoffs this year.It's time to build this team so it will last a bit longer than one season.


I would be ok with a tie tonight,win would make me happy.:drinking:

[Walms]

I’m still mad, hurt, and embarrassed by the loss to Montreal on Wednesday. I have no desire to watch the match tonight; in fact I’d rather avoid it entirely. Yet something inside is calling, and come 8:30 tonight you can bet I’ll be throwing on the jersey, wrapping the scarf around my neck & heading to the bar….. That’s just what we do as supporters.

[billyfly]

This game is on May 4th - Star Wars day.

[flamehawk]

Well, Wolves officially relegated today with a whimper, losing 2 - 0 to Brighton. Players attempted to give their jerseys to the fans, but the fans promptly threw their shirts back on to the pitch apparently.

... I would say at least I got TFC to cheer me up, but last time I said that...

[gate7]

BINGO !!!

I can care less about playoffs this year.It's time to build this team so it will last a bit longer than one season.


I would be ok with a tie tonight,win would make me happy.:drinking:



id be happy with not looking like ass clowns...

oh, and don't worry 'bout the playoffs ...... It ain't happening.

[gate7]

I’m still mad, hurt, and embarrassed by the loss to Montreal on Wednesday. I have no desire to watch the match tonight; in fact I’d rather avoid it entirely. Yet something inside is calling, and come 8:30 tonight you can bet I’ll be throwing on the jersey, wrapping the scarf around my neck & heading to the bar….. That’s just what we do as supporters.
if it wasn't for Laba's debut id be resting my eyes too...

[nlsanand]

id be happy with not looking like ass clowns...

oh, and don't worry 'bout the playoffs ...... It ain't happening.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwq7BYOnDrM

immediately thought of this.

[Abou Sky]

Anyone want to meet up for the game or is everyone watching hockey?

[69Chevy396]

BINGO !!!

I can care less about playoffs this year.It's time to build this team so it will last a bit longer than one season.


I would be ok with a tie tonight,win would make me happy.:drinking:
The team needs to make a drive for the playoffs. They should spend as much money as it takes. The previous years money was spent by dimwits who made poor choices. Frings was popular, but a stupid signing given his age and propensity for injury. Ruis was a dumb move. JDG was a flop. Etc etc. Montreal is teaching us. Seattle, San Jose etc. No shortage of quality players every year, but our team fucks up most of the time. Look around BMO. Notice the empty seats? Notice how quiet the place has become? The measure of TFC success transcends the hopes and wishes of a few thousand supporters. Without building some excitement via a playoff run this team may be doomed.

[Yohan]

Free stream of the week on mlslive btw

[Corpand]

Thanks for the heads up.

I'm really looking forward to seeing Laba play. I really do think he will help keep shape in midfield, especially around the 90th. Are clubs in Argentina at altitude too by the way?

[Abou Sky]

Thanks for the heads up.

I'm really looking forward to seeing Laba play. I really do think he will help keep shape in midfield, especially around the 90th. Are clubs in Argentina at altitude too by the way?

Not Buenos Aires, it is basically sea level

[Abou Sky]

The team needs to make a drive for the playoffs. They should spend as much money as it takes. The previous years money was spent by dimwits who made poor choices. Frings was popular, but a stupid signing given his age and propensity for injury. Ruis was a dumb move. JDG was a flop. Etc etc. Montreal is teaching us. Seattle, San Jose etc. No shortage of quality players every year, but our team fucks up most of the time. Look around BMO. Notice the empty seats? Notice how quiet the place has become? The measure of TFC success transcends the hopes and wishes of a few thousand supporters. Without building some excitement via a playoff run this team may be doomed.

I agree that for the sake of longevity the team needs to be better but to just try to make it this year is short sighted.

Likely the revolving door is still turning and we will have a better year next year.

[Cashcleaner]

for those of you keeping score, 5 out of last 7 games that TFC gave up a goal 89mins or later.

I sent the numbers to NASA to figure out those odds. They have yet to get back to me.

http://archive.computerhistory.org/resources/still-image/compaq/compaq.server.102640484.lg.jpg

[gate7]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qwq7BYOnDrM

immediately thought of this.

lol exactly!

[notthesun]

TFC XI: Bendik; Richter, Agbossoumonde, O'Dea, Emory; Lambe, Hall, Laba, Ephraim; Silva, Earnshaw.

Bench: Frei; Califf, Henry, Russell, Osorio, Welshman, Bostock

Good lineup from Nelsen, exactly what I'd put out under the current circumstances. Up to the guys to put out a solid effort now.

[OgtheDim]

That looks to me like a 4-1-3-1-1 going forward and a 4-2-3-1 in defence.

I wonder how Hall is going to deal with not having to be the destroyer?

[Rudy]

Morgan isnt on the bench either.

[Dkolish3]

Morgan isnt on the bench either.

It's somewhat amazing how far he has fallen.

[KGH]

Morgan isnt on the bench either.

Quite the message

[mowe]

Oh man I am so excited to see this lineup in action! Maybe I have too high expectations for Laba considering I've never seen him play but everything I've read about his game makes him seem a perfect fit in our midfield. Really looking forward to see what he can do with Ephraim on the wing and Silva in front.

[Corpand]

Good luck boys!

[Dkolish3]

Any streams?

http://www.firstrow1.eu/watch/184915/1/watch-colorado-rapids-vs-toronto-fc.html

[PopePouri]

Any streams?

http://www.mlssoccer.com/stream-of-the-week

[OgtheDim]

Anybody got a Canadian stream? Firstrow and MLS Live are the US one.

[jloome]

Bah, my wife is watching Silver Linings Playbook (aka my 20s) and I have to watch the Colorado feed online. I hate Yankee commentators.

[Dkolish3]

Bah, my wife is watching Silver Linings Playbook (aka my 20s) and I have to watch the Colorado feed online. I hate Yankee commentators.

In her defence it's a really good movie

:hide:

[Soccerpro]

Next step for TFC management has to be to get some wingers....

[OgtheDim]

Ugh..Bendik punting it nowhere.

[Red CB Toronto]

After spending Wednesday night at Saputo, my support will never waiver. Enjoying this game from the couch on what has been a very beautiful day out in the country. Excited to see Laba's debut with the Reds.

[Corpand]

Anyone else see that Silva pass?

[Dkolish3]

Can't believe we survived that!

[mowe]

Bendik comes up huge with the save.

[Auzzy]

Wow, complete garbage by Richter to setup that chance.

[Red CB Toronto]

Nice save on Earnshaw.

[shwade]

Quick question: who are the longest serving members of tfc?
Did anyone on the squad play for the team back when it was really amazing to play at bmo ?

[mowe]

Aww Earnshaw could've done better there in front of goal.

[OgtheDim]

If we keep our fitness, these guys can be had.

[Dkolish3]

Quick question: who are the longest serving members of tfc?
Did anyone on the squad play for the team back when it was really amazing to play at bmo ?

Stephen Frei been around for a long time

[Eastend]

Quick question: who are the longest serving members of tfc?
Did anyone on the squad play for the team back when it was really amazing to play at bmo ?

Frei, and no.

Dom

[__wowza]

Quick question: who are the longest serving members of tfc?
Did anyone on the squad play for the team when it was really amazing to play at bmo ?

frei, followed by brennan.
wynne is currently playing for the other team at seventh for appearances.

[OgtheDim]

Not much width (where have we seen that before) Lambe coming into the middle. Looks more like a 4-2-2-2

[shwade]

Just Frei eh, new blood.

[Auzzy]

Is that Nathan Sturgis playing for Colorado?

[Eastend]

No connection on the passes.

[OgtheDim]

Hmm....$52.80 for 4 tickets and food. Methinks we live in a different world.

[Eastend]

Is that Nathan Sturgis playing for Colorado?

Yes.

[__wowza]

im kinda wondering what everyone thinks of bendik now in terms of the trade with portland. most of us / the MLS considered him an afterthought.

[Dkolish3]

im kinda wondering what everyone thinks of bendik now in terms of the trade with portland. most of us / the MLS considered him an afterthought.

It just shows me how easy it is to get a MLS calibre goalkeeper and that we shouldn't be paying enormous amounts for one

[Red CB Toronto]

im kinda wondering what everyone thinks of bendik now in terms of the trade with portland. most of us / the MLS considered him an afterthought.
He has been great so far. Has made some key saves in games that could have turned into complete disasters. Some of the post 80 minute goals this season were in no way his fault.

[Ajax TFC]

Quick question: who are the longest serving members of tfc?
Did anyone on the squad play for the team back when it was really amazing to play at bmo ?
I believe Frei and Henry are the only players who were here before Winter came.

[Eastend]

im kinda wondering what everyone thinks of bendik now in terms of the trade with portland. most of us / the MLS considered him an afterthought.

I was happy with Kocic and I feel Bendik is a like for like.....maybe a few Fifa points better.

Dom

[OgtheDim]

Hmm.....seems like the Colorado guys have never watched a corner kick defended by a Rafae Benetiz team. Not sure I like the zonal marking but its not like we are the only ones using it.

[Red CB Toronto]

Another Earnshaw chance for not.

[Ajax TFC]

That was a sexy pass from Hall into the path of Richter in space

[Richard]

WOW. Point blank.

[AlanO]

Earnshaw finally gets decent service and sends it into the crowd.

[OgtheDim]

Guys gotta score there.

[gate7]

is Bendik flat footed or something?

[__wowza]

It just shows me how easy it is to get a MLS calibre goalkeeper and that we shouldn't be paying enormous amounts for one

that's true, MLS has always been great for keepers. especially when you consider the fact that kocic hasn't seen a match for the timbers. obviously that'll change when the season/US open picks up.


He has been great so far. Has made some key saves in games that could have turned into complete disasters. Some of the post 80 minute goals this season were in no way his fault.

i just didn't realize how young he was (he's 24). i meant in terms of the trade in general, johnson has been great with the timbers. 4 goals in 8 matches, i would've liked to see him with earnshaw. i wonder what bendik is making.

[mowe]

Great ball by Hall there, Earnie effort over the bar.

[Eastend]

Bendik does need work on his kicks....playing pass with the other keeper is useless.

[Auzzy]

Hmm.....seems like the Colorado guys have never watched a corner kick defended by a Rafae Benetiz team. Not sure I like the zonal marking but its not like we are the only ones using it.

I was going to ask, that seemed a bit over the top from the commentators.

RE the field: there's watering it. And then there's greasing. This is ridiculous, both teams wiping out all over the place.

[sully]

I like what i see from laba so far. He 's winning balls and his passes ok. I'd liketo see him getting a bit up a field more.

[PopePouri]

Loving Hall now. Great passing.

[Flipityflu]

coaches really need to start working on Bendik's distribution....awful

[jloome]

Christ almighty Bendik has a foot. I'm glad we haven't lost him to the NFL.

[Ajax TFC]

Lambe!!! You had the fucking shot on your good foot!! Why the FUCK would you pull that back to the middle?!?!?!?

[__wowza]

firstrow just cut out on me, anyone got any other streams?

[Corpand]

Laba has not been too involved, still feeling his way out on the pitch.

Sully, I see the danger of Laba pushing forward too, he has a tricky change of pace which allows him to get in between the lines. Already see his movement improving with time.

[jloome]

Lambe!!! You had the fucking shot on your good foot!! Why the FUCK would you pull that back to the middle?!?!?!? We're playing ok but there's a decided lack of confidence from some players right now.

[Eastend]

Is Rogers TV producing this broadcast?

[PopePouri]

firstrow just cut out on me, anyone got any other streams?

http://www.mlssoccer.com/stream-of-the-week

[AlanO]

How is that not a free kick? Mullan dove head-first into Ephraim.

[Richard]

This game is very winnable. Also, is it me or does Ephraim really piss off everbody.

[flamehawk]

firstrow just cut out on me, anyone got any other streams?


it's free on mlssoccer.com

[jloome]

That was a pretty thin "advantage" he played there; about ten yards, maybe?

[__wowza]

it's free on mlssoccer.com

well fuck!

EDIT: im outside north america, just checked, doesn't work.
EDIT #2: found one!
EDIT #3: according to this ad, there are sexy singles in my area ready to meet me!! g:D
EDIT #4: I ALSO WON A FREE IPAD!! they just need my credit card number..

[OgtheDim]

Dive by Ephraim.

And that was a definite attempt by him to get a yellow on Harris before.

:violin:

[Ajax TFC]

Loved the way Hall attacked the ball when Colorado was countering with numbers and won it back

[jloome]

Dive by Ephraim. And that was a definite attempt by him to get a yellow on Harris before. :violin: Having said that, Harris is a pretty dirty player. He throws elbows like other people shake hands.

[Richard]

Lamb with some good hustle to win the ball back. :)

[Red CB Toronto]

Silva with some nice hustle too.

[jloome]

It's gratifying to play a team as bad as we are.

[DoubleUp]

No connection on the passes.


I wont speak on it.

[Eastend]

Not a totally bad half....aside from the distribution and passing

[jloome]

We're timid in attack; no one wants to run at anyone.

[mowe]

It's gratifying to play a team as bad as we are.

Sums it up.

[Flipityflu]

good away game first half

now to channel the winning machine that is the Toronto Maple Leafs

[Auzzy]

Too bad, TFC had a couple of excellent chances they should have put away.

Man these US commentators are occasionally clueless, especially the colour guy.

[Richard]

These commentators are clueless. He just called Nelson an "Experienced coach".

[OgtheDim]

There seems to be a big fat hole behind Silva and Earnshaw.

[PopePouri]

Labawatch: Looks like a great distributor. That pass off the outside of the boot to Lambe was sexy.

[sully]

There seems to be a big fat hole behind Silva and Earnshaw. yeah.. There sitting back too much. I'd love to see laba play up further.

[OgtheDim]

Laba's positioning has been excellent. My problem is we don't have anybody to link up as I have no clue as to where Lambe and Ephraim go when Laba makes a tackle.

Ephraim is going to run out of gas by 60.

[DoubleUp]

yeah.. There sitting back too much. I'd love to see laba play up further.

Interesting concept!. I agree by the way.

[OgtheDim]

yeah.. There sitting back too much. I'd love to see laba play up further.

That's not his game.

[sully]

That's not his game. fair enough. Need laba 2

[Red CB Toronto]

Would have been nice if the Reds has finished one of their chances in the first half.

[Auzzy]

Laba's positioning has been excellent. My problem is we don't have anybody to link up as I have no clue as to where Lambe and Ephraim go when Laba makes a tackle.

Ephraim is going to run out of gas by 60.

Perhaps Ephraim was told to go full out & expect a sub. Maybe Osorio and Bostock can do something off the bench. Laba's natural position is further back. You can tell we're really missing strikers with DK & Braun both out. Nobody can really take Silva's position when he gets pushed into the striker role -- that creates the hole behind the strikers.

[DoubleUp]

That's not his game.

I disagree!, I believe we have`nt seen anything when it comes to his attacking quality.


I`m not saying he is an attacking Wizard, but I believe he is far more offensive then we think.
you can`t play in argentina and not have some type of attacking sense as a central midfielder, its just the fact that there are players that are far more potent so essentially your services are`nt need.

[Oldtimer]

Buddle!!! :D

[nonc]

can't believe how bad tfc treated avila, and for what, this wing play? lol. avila would still be one of our best players.

[Red CB Toronto]

It will be up to the Reds defenders to keep Buddle in check.

[DoubleUp]

can't believe how bad tfc treated avila, and for what, this wing play? lol. avila would still be one of our best players.


Wing play is overrated, especially when those said wingers are relatively inexperienced.

[PopePouri]

I disagree!, I believe we have`nt seen anything when it comes to his attacking quality.


I`m not saying he is an attacking Wizard, but I believe he is far more offensive then we think.
you can`t play in argentina and not have some type of attacking sense as a central midfielder, its just the fact that there are players that are far more potent so essentially your services are`nt need.

He has 0 goals out of 60 odd appearances. What he supposed to be is a deep lying playmaker.

[OgtheDim]

I disagree!, I believe we have`nt seen anything when it comes to his attacking quality.

I`m not saying he is an attacking Wizard, but I believe he is far more offensive then we think.
you can`t play in argentina and not have some type of attacking sense as a central midfielder, its just the fact that there are players that are far more potent so essentially your services are`nt need.

Every single bit of tape I've seen on him is he's a DM who lays off really well. Every bit of positioning I saw in that first half was consistent with that. Long term vision wise, he replaces Hall and Dunfield.

[Ajax TFC]

Who's the PBP on the score? apparently Richter has become Bekker.

[Ajax TFC]

can't believe how bad tfc treated avila, and for what, this wing play? lol. avila would still be one of our best players.
And the wing wasn't even his best position. And he was on a below average salary, AND he didn't take up an international spot like all our current sub standard wingers

[ag futbol]

If we stopped doing those long throws every time, I would not complain. It's easy to defend when you do it every time

[notthesun]

Nice win of the ball from Laba there.

[nonc]

Wing play is overrated, especially when those said wingers are relatively inexperienced.

haha what? ephraim is 25 and will command an inflated salary if signed. looks like a league 1 lifer.

[DoubleUp]

He has 0 goals out of 60 odd appearances. What he supposed to be is a deep lying playmaker.



I addressed that Pope, in argentina he is what he is. In the MlS he could be something different...........Thats not impossible.

Pirlo started his career as an attacking midfielder now he is argubly the best deep lying playmaker in the world, payers changing they`re position is not unheard of. Who remebers the below average LB Gareth Bale.

[DoubleUp]

haha what? ephraim is 25 and will command an inflated salary if signed. looks like a league 1 lifer.



I was pretty much agreeing with you!. but hey if you want to have Phantom arguments be my guess.

[OgtheDim]

I addressed that Pope, in argentina he is what he is. In the MlS he could be something different...........Thats not impossible.

.

And not going to happen within a week of him being here just because the other midfielder is also a DM and we don't have a second decent striker.

That would be a long term project.

And, frankly, not worth the money we paid for him given we have a decent AM and DK coming back in a month.

[nonc]

no matter what happens laba is fresh air.

[ag futbol]

Something has to be adjusted with this long goal kick stuff. We're giving away the ball too often on low percentage crap.

[Red CB Toronto]

CSL alumni Irwin makes some big saves for the Rapids.

[OgtheDim]

Gosh these Colarado guys are clueless.

A guy kicks a guys leg.

Sure, its not a foul.

But its not freaking simulation.

[notthesun]

Laba wins the ball in midfield, turns, plays a perfect ball over the top to Silva and we get a good cross in the box. That's what we need more of in central midfield. Hard on the ball, smart distribution.

[DoubleUp]

And not going to happen within a week of him being here just because the other midfielder is also a DM and we don't have a second decent striker.

That would be a long term project.

And, frankly, not worth the money we paid for him given we have a decent AM and DK coming back in a month.


Fair enough! but not asking him to be a AM, I am asking to play a bit more offensively thats all.

[Richard]

Gosh these Colarado guys are clueless.

A guy kicks a guys leg.

Sure, its not a foul.

But its not freaking simulation.
You can rewind on MLS live. It was in fact a total simulation by Emroy. At 57:45

[notthesun]

Did Emory really just dive while a cross was in mid-air coming straight towards his man?

[ag futbol]

Fuck sakes, how many balls can we lob forward to nobody

[notthesun]

This just in, Hall still can't defend 1v1.

[__wowza]

This just in, Hall still can't defend 1v1.

to be fair, he did run it past 3 other people.

[__wowza]

what the hell did they do to their pitch? ive seen at least 20 spills!

[notthesun]

to be fair, he did run it past 3 other people.

Hall's job to stop him initially though. He set himself and simply let him walk by. Laba was caught behind but at least he tried to get a tackle in.

[OgtheDim]

Ref is eyeballing the 10 yards and not pacing it off.

[69Chevy396]

What is the score, or should I guess (we are losing)

[AlanO]

Decent shot from Silva

[ag futbol]

Hall's job to stop him initially though. He set himself and simply let him walk by. Laba was caught behind but at least he tried to get a tackle in.
At the point Hall got to him it's probably advisable to take the tactical foul though. With that much steam is O'dea really going to get there ? Don't think we want to count on that.

[Brooker]

What is the score, or should I guess (we are losing)

A thrilling 0-0 game. It's almost as fun as playing solitaire.

[Eastend]

This long ball game is killing me. Not much flow.

[Oldtimer]

TFC is very undisciplined up front. The Rapids are very poor at finishing. Neither team is playing well.

[Auzzy]

That was a dive by Colorado to earn the free kick.

[ag futbol]

This long goal kick stuff is a joke. We 've gifted them the ball about 10x straight here. Just awful

[Brooker]

This long ball game is killing me. Not much flow.

I've been fighting the urge to start chanting Tony Pulis Barmy Army.

[Auzzy]

Nelsen needs to make a sub FFS!

[__wowza]

This long goal kick stuff is a joke. We 've gifted them the ball about 10x straight here. Just awful

here comes another one for ya!

[Richard]

Everybody start holding your breath.

[Auzzy]

Russell WTF???? Why not Osorio?

[OgtheDim]

Russel for Ephraim.

[Oldtimer]

last 10 minutes. Another time to give up a late goal? :(

[__wowza]

we need a sub, the guys look gassed.

[DoubleUp]

Russell WTF???? Why not Osorio?



Even though I prefer our second leading scorer(Osario):D, Russell has experience and in this Tfc team that counts.


So I personally dont mind that sub.

[billyfly]

Crap!!!!

[Marc"2L"]

Robbie's got to finish those.

[69Chevy396]

Thanks, I can feel better going back to my nose hair trimming

[Ajax TFC]

Earnshaw is in REALLY bad form right now. He needs a goal ASAP to get out of it

[Richard]

Are you serious.

[billyfly]

Thanks, I can feel better going back to my nose hair trimming


Kate Upton wont date you unless you trim.

[Dkolish3]

Well he did say he wanted to miss some chances right?

[Marc"2L"]

Figures.

[ag futbol]

Good first shift from laba.

Fuck !

[billyfly]

Crap!!!!!!

[Ajax TFC]

what the fuck was that? not only do you stop the ball and tee it up for one of the better strikers in the league, you fall over to give him a clean shot :facepalm:

[notthesun]

hahahahahahaha are you kidding me

[Lowndes94]

Not even mad at this point

[Red CB Toronto]

That is BS, all I can say.

[Dv23]

Honestly, I'm laughing.

[billyfly]

Edison Buddle. figures

[Richard]

Fuuuucck this

[KGH]

For fucks sake

[Flipityflu]

oh my

[Oldtimer]

last 10 minutes. Another time to give up a late goal? :(

Yep. #$%^&*&%#$%&&*%^

[billyfly]

This is Toronto. FML

[Brooker]

Oh there it is.

[__wowza]

http://i.imgur.com/TaTdV.gif?news

something tells me im going to be using this gif a lot this season..

[TFC07]

Defender costing a game for us again?

[ag futbol]

Awful mistake, but I hope people don't get tunnel vision on that because there are other problems out there

[jloome]

Oy vey.

[Dkolish3]

That was fucked up

[TFC07]

This is Toronto. FMLAt least the Leafs won.

[OgtheDim]

Words fail.

[billyfly]

You just can't make this stuff up.

[Stryker]

How bad do feel for a great keeper like Bendik playing behind these tits.

[69Chevy396]

[QUOTE=billyfly;1581406]Kate Upton wont date you unless you trim.[/QUOTE
Did you know she has the hairiest pusxxxxxy in Hollywood?

[Auzzy]

Bit early for that Colorado goal, don't you think?

[DoubleUp]

Sorry!. but I rather lose every game playing Osario then continue to play lambe.

[ryan]

I just burst out laughing. Making good money live betting against this team.


It's scummy, but why not.

[Richard]

If I'm a match fixer I'm calling TFC right now.

[Red CB Toronto]

After Wednesday night in San Jose, the Reds need to regroup and figure this bs out because if they do not this season will go down the drain very quickly.

[Rudy]

i am not even mad or least bit shaken at this point.

[notthesun]

This team needs a LB, ho-lee shit. Emory dreadful and that gift-wrapped mistake tops it off.

[Ajax TFC]

Bendik :facepalm:

[Initial B]

You could see his feet slip from underneath him as he went to clear it. If he doesn't go down, it doesn't go in. I'd like to see how the coach explains this one in the end of game press conference. When will he start bringing up "lack of quality"?

[Marc"2L"]

Bendik :facepalm:

Surely you're not....

[__wowza]

maybe this is a pittsburgh defense, tank season after season and build a winning team after 3 years off your drafted players.

[TFC07]

TFC is playing very ugly soccer. Long ball after long ball. Whatever happen to playing attacking soccer? If we are going to lose, at least lose with playing an attractive brand of soccer.

[69Chevy396]

So, are we winning yet?

[OgtheDim]

Somebody needs to attack those thrown ins. Totally wasted if nobody tries to get on the end.

[Stryker]

maybe this is a pittsburgh defense, tank season after season and build a winning team after 3 years off your drafted players.

Ask the Oilers how that's workin out.

[gracos]

who was the player who fell down in the box, if that was Logan Emory he needs to know his time is coming to a close in Toronto; cant stand Emory ever since that intentional red card last year

[Richard]

TFC is playing very ugly soccer. Long ball after long ball. Whatever happen to playing attacking soccer? If we are going to lose, at least lose with playing an attractive brand of soccer.

It starts with the keeper, if they keep allowing Bendik to give up possession by booting the ball up field its all pointless.

[MG42]

too much to be coincidence.....

[Ajax TFC]

Surely you're not....
not in any way blaming him for the goal, or any goal this season for that matter. He just needs to be banned from playing the ball long, because it's completely useless. I think he's connected with a red player twice today, and not a single other one was even close. But there are many other areas that need to be addressed as well

[Oldtimer]

That;s it boys. Good night.

[SirBobSaget]

The late goal mistakes are just comical. Its rarely the opponent creating the goal rather its a TFC dman gifting a goal.

Oh well at least threw away the CCL so can win some games on the road trip off of fresh legs.

[notthesun]

too much to be coincidence.....

It isn't coincidence, that's just not debatable. It's a mentality issue and it gets worse with each one we give up.

I am officially writing off this season today. I don't care about results anymore, I just want to see Payne build a team for next year.

[Stryker]

Number one need, a good LB to play opposite of a healthy Ecks.
Morgan, Emory and Ricktor all junk.

[ag futbol]

Logan Emory’s terrible mistake aside and the under-talented nature of our squad, I have some real concerns:

1) Why can’t we score on any set piece opportunity? For a grinder team like ours that can defend that should be our break and butter.
2) We wasted about 90% of our goal kicks on long hopeful balls looking for target men who aren’t great at bringing the ball out of the air. Bednik is not accurate with his kick, this
Basically, I have to wonder at this point if Ryan Nelsen has it together when it comes to organizing the attack. Maybe it’s nothing, maybe it’s correctable. But at this point I have questions.

[Marc"2L"]

not in any way blaming him for the goal, or any goal this season for that matter. He just needs to be banned from playing the ball long, because it's completely useless. I think he's connected with a red player twice today, and not a single other one was even close. But there are many other areas that need to be addressed as well

Oh, fair.

More beer

[TFC07]

It starts with the keeper, if they keep allowing Bendik to give up possession by booting the ball up field its all pointless.End of the day, I wish TFC played more an offensive minded game. I am getting sick and tired of watching TFC playing too defensive/conservative. It hasn't been fun watching TFC in a while.

[Richard]

How Nelson allows Bendik to boot the ball up field is beyond me. Possession football 101 starts from the back, you always pass the ball out if your not under pressure.

[DoubleUp]

It starts with the keeper, if they keep allowing Bendik to give up possession by booting the ball up field its all pointless.


Agree.! his only bad point imo.


But ball retention is part of my football philosphy, others might not see it as such a problem.

[nonc]

earnshaw is as much to blame as emory. not to mention nelsen's best mariner hoofball impersonation, just awful. i feel bad for silva and laba.

[Red CB Toronto]

TFC needs to make sweet hot love to each other and find that connection once again that could make this team so great.

[Beach_Red]

If I'm a match fixer I'm calling TFC right now.

At this point I think I'd be happy to find out this is because of fixing.

[gracos]

Possession = Shots = Shots on Net = Goals; why is it so simple to see yet management still doesn't seem to get it

[Auzzy]

All you can do is laugh.

[69Chevy396]

I didn't watch the game. Spent a few hours with a large number of Toronto sports fans. None were aware that TFC was playing tonight. Friends, this better turn around fast or we will be without pro soccer here in a few years. Nobody gives a shit anymore

[Initial B]

Laugh!? All I want to do is cry!

I'm going to bed.

[Stryker]

Where is the effort to counter? Our players bring the ball up an open field like they're taking a Sunday walk.

[DoubleUp]

Possession = Shots = Shots on Net = Goals; why is it so simple to see yet management still doesn't seem to get it


Because we are trying to play like a midtable Epl side. I have nothing against the people but english football is nothing to replicate, its heavy on athleticisim and lacks tactical and techincal nuance.


Its organized kick ball.

[__wowza]

Where is the effort to counter? Our players bring the ball up an open field like they're taking a Sunday walk.

the few times we build up a good attack, it normally ends with a low cross being cleared .

[Ajax TFC]

Ask the Oilers how that's workin out.
Odd, I got a notification saying you quoted me here. Except obviously you didn't:confused:

[reggie]

neilson....we are gutted....go fuck yr self...horseshack logan....is a piece of shit...u bunch of fucking schoolboys losers.....jus fold this shit

[cochrdoc]

I have never seen any thing more comical then this team in the last 10 minutes.Pure shit.I thought they might sneak a win with a goal but their set pieces are poor and they can`t create anything with the run of play.The roster is alittle better then last year,but not much.Colarado has a b team out there and we can`t score.We have so many players who struggle .Plata is a much better player then Lambe

[Soccerpro]

When was the last time TFC scored off of a corner kick? I can't ever recall seeing it.
We have a player with a long throw, do we score from it? No

Jeremy Hall and Hogan Ephraim contribute nothing. We need wingers, more than anything, in order to start taking the game to the opposition.