Pre/In/Post - Matchday 16: Real Salt Lake at Toronto, Sat 29 June, 1pm

[Yohan]

TFC, on a 3 game unbeaten streak, welcomes a hot RSL team that is on a 5 game win streak (3 MLS, 2 US Open Cup) and have lost only once in 10 games, but who have not won at BMO Field in their 6 trips to Toronto. Scary just how well this team is playing though.

And wee man, Joao Plata who have found himself a regular role at RSL returns. If it makes you feel any better, Aaron Maund still sucks.

Breakfast tailgate starting at 10am!

[TFC07]

This is one game I don't mind if we draw. RSL is on fire and top of the standings in the west.

However, this game is going start at 1pm on a hot day, so who knows that plays as an advantage to us or not.

[notthesun]

As long as Plata doesn't score. Not because I hate him but because I don't want to hear about how we gave him up for nothing from everybody if he does.

If we're smart we'll be telling Richter, who'd probably line up against him the most, to line him up so that he can't cut back on his right. I mean really make it obvious that he won't be cutting in all game. Unless he's changed his game that will completely shut him down.

[mowe]

10 point out of the playoffs with 19 games to play. It looks like it'll take 50 points to make the playoffs, meaning TFC needs to get 2 points per game the rest of the way. Current league leaders Montreal are at 2.07 points per game.

TFC needs to play like the best team in the league the rest of the season just to squeeze into the playoffs. So yeah, there's a lot of work to do.

These are two tough games coming up against RSL and Montreal but it's absolutely essential to get at least 4 points. The importance of protecting your home field cannot be overstated. TFC have 10 home games left and to give themselves a fighting chance they need to pick up around 25 of the 30 points available. The shitty start to the season has left very little room for error. TFC needs to be near-perfect at home and still pick up results on the road.

Of course I'm hoping that we'll pick up some game-changers in the summer window and go off on a miraculous run to storm into the playoffs. But realistically even if we do improve significantly we're likely going to fall short. And then of course we'll be left to rue those late goals and dropped points.

[OgtheDim]

TFC needs to play like the best team in the league the rest of the season just to squeeze into the playoffs. So yeah, there's a lot of work to do.

..

Ur assuming that was the goal this year. I don't think Payne or Nelsen thought we'd be getting even a sniff this season.

[West220Side]

I'm personally siding with the "give them a season" side of the forums. I made a promise to myself at the beginning of the year not to give up supporting because of anything on the pitch this year. It started off really good, it got really bad, and its starting to get better. Two good games from the reds, if we can start a streak who knows where it can lead.

Other teams in this league have started streaks before and done some great things. Id be happy with a 0-0 draw, with some attractive football.

Id be buzzing for a 1-0 win another clean sheet for Bendik. More importantly I just want us to play some attractive football again. Both against DC and Houston we played some attractive football.

[Initial B]

RSL is stronger and I could imagine that our guys might get complacent over the last two game results and perhaps letting their foot off the pedal. I see 2-0 for RSL, with Plata scoring one of the goals.

[Super]

This would be the perfect time for us to get a win and start climbing the table. We still have quite a bit of mountain to climb, but it'll seem a lot more possible with 3 points in the bag. I'm pumped!

[Fort York Redcoat]

Just watched Salt Lake highlights. Yeah...I'll take a draw.

[Yohan]

TFC again catches a break with RSL hosting Carolina for US Open Cup game on Wed. Likely at least couple of starters will get mins

[Couchy81]

I'm up at a friend's cottage this weekend but thankfully there is satellite tv. Won't be the first TFC game I've had to watch up there.

This game is going to be a good one, I have a feeling we will come away with at least a point.

[T-boy]

Plata will run us ragged, I fully expect it!

[Canary10]

Plata will run us ragged, I fully expect it!

I really wish Plata had gotten a better look when the new management arrived. Maybe by then the relationship between player and club was already too strained. But I still think he gave us something we didn't (and still don't) have on this team in a guy who could take defenders on one on one. And the crowd always loved him. He bumped up the energy level.

[Abou Sky]

I think that again this is going to be about 'mental toughness' and 'teamwork' not skill.

Look at the pieces and they are really not a ton better than us, I think that we can take three points.

2-0 TFC

That would also give some traction to the boys and MAYBE actually beat Montreal at home.

Maybe I am crazy, but I think that we have the pieces to be a good team right now, the players just need to stay calm and focus.

[tfcleeds]

Probably still too early to give Koevs a start, but I'd really like to see what he and Earnshaw can do together. At the very least, Nelsen should start Brockie.

[Ivy]

Probably still too early to give Koevs a start, but I'd really like to see what he and Earnshaw can do together. At the very least, Nelsen should start Brockie.
Yes x100. Is convey better than brockie? I don't see why brockie never starts...

[Yohan]

Yes x100. Is convey better than brockie? I don't see why brockie never starts...
Convey is doing good enough for a guy still adjusting to the team. And is a better natural winger than Brockie who has been good up front as a striker

[Ivy]

I'm just confused why Ryan brought Brockie from across the world? If he needed an ass to keep the bench warm, he shoulda brought in an academy kid. If Brockie is a proven striker (or whatever his role is) then play him... The guy needs more than 15 minutes to get used to the flow of the game. He played more minutes against Philly, and assisted Oso's goal.
Instead Nelson puts him in when there's no time left, and TFC is taking on all the pressure. A striker can't do anything when the ball never reaches him.

[BuSaPuNk]

For sure I think Brockie would do more up top then Silva would for sure.

[Pint]

Would really like to see Brockie start behind earnshaw. It leaves you with more flexibility to bring silva on for Hall and koef for either of the forwards late if a goal is needed.

[Abou Sky]

Because I haven't done one for a while, my 11+ would be

----------------Bendik----------------
Richter--Caldwell - - Henry - - - O'Dea
----------------Laba-------------------
Osorio - --- - - -Silva------------Convey
-----------Brockie - - Earnshaw - - - - - -

Again, many will think this is nuts but I think that we are good enough to keep RSL on their heels the whole game and pot 2-3 goals.

Earnshaw and Brockie should get plenty of service from that bunch.

It would also be a hell of a lot more interesting soccer than we have seen for a while.

[BuSaPuNk]

I really like this ^ I would put Brockie in behind Earnshaw though.

[Abou Sky]

I really like this ^ I would put Brockie in behind Earnshaw though.

Fair enough, but you see how I feel like it is only mental now, Richter is the weakest link but he is improving. Other than that, we are as strong as any team.

Sub on Hall for Silva if we get a 2 goal lead or are ahead in last bit. Put on DK for Earnshaw or even for Silva and play a mashed up 4-3-3

[BuSaPuNk]

Yep I agree. I think there starting to get this together.

[Super]

I think it's important that we play with some confidence. We can't sit back and allow RSL to play their game in our stadium. Quite frankly, I think we're good enough to beat any team in this league - on a good day. So let's not be afraid anymore. Play HARD and with a HEART too. That's what we're all longing to see.

Also, I can stomach a defeat or draw at home a lot better if we gave it our all vs. playing a defensive style with 1 man up front.

[Initial B]

Super, it's not a matter of toughness and heart. RSL simply has more quality than TFC. Therefore RSL will win.

[KRO]

Plata wants to be treated kindly on Saturday. He just tweeted this.

"Ready to travel to TORONTO! Happy to go back to Toronto I love this city. #Home (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Home&src=hash) #fans (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fans&src=hash) #friends (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23friends&src=hash) #Everything (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Everything&src=hash)"

[Phil]

Through all the discussion around meaningless firendlies I forgot we have a meaningful game coming up!?!?! I swear the schedule looked to me like we would be playing Roma for the rest of the year considering twitter and how many threads are talking about it.

A draw is what I hope for, I pray we don't loose as RSL is a beast right now. A win would be a nice early birthday gift wor CoachGT :D

[Ivy]

Plata wants to be treated kindly on Saturday. He just tweeted this.

"Ready to travel to TORONTO! Happy to go back to Toronto I love this city. #Home (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Home&src=hash)#fans (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fans&src=hash)#friends (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23friends&src=hash)#Everything (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Everything&src=hash)"
I have no issue with Plata... He was Cochrane'd out of TFC.

[nonc]

As long as Plata doesn't score. Not because I hate him but because I don't want to hear about how we gave him up for nothing from everybody if he does.

If we're smart we'll be telling Richter, who'd probably line up against him the most, to line him up so that he can't cut back on his right. I mean really make it obvious that he won't be cutting in all game. Unless he's changed his game that will completely shut him down.

Richter's penchant for overplaying attackers and allowing the blow by might be a field day for Plata. At least he's mobile and works his butt off, I guess.

[Stress]

Really wish we were catching RSL during Gold Cup. An RSL without Beckerman, Rimando, and Beltran is certainly a little less intimidating.

[Yohan]

Knowing TFC and ex TFC players, Plata will score a brace :p

[Yohan]

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/sports/56519148-77/rsl-lake-real-salt.html.csp

First team for RSL routed Carolina 3-0 on US Open Cup game last night

[Red I]

Richter's penchant for overplaying attackers and allowing the blow by might be a field day for Plata. At least he's mobile and works his butt off, I guess.

... these all are MANDATORY skills for a full back. *sigh

[nonc]

... these all are MANDATORY skills for a full back. *sigh

Not sure if serious.

[Abou Sky]

Richter's penchant for overplaying attackers and allowing the blow by might be a field day for Plata. At least he's mobile and works his butt off, I guess.

Little unfair if you are talking about last week because Davis makes most people look like a fool.

He is getting better, it would be nice if we had Ecks playing but Richter has been one of the more positive surprises for the season for me.

Think about this: Richter is still playing and is some kid nobody has heard of. Bostock was supposed to be some super star and didn't even crack the bench by the end of his tenure.

[TFCAURORA]

would look alot better with ecks in the back. Damn I miss that guy.

Because I haven't done one for a while, my 11+ would be

----------------Bendik----------------
Richter--Caldwell - - Henry - - - O'Dea
----------------Laba-------------------
Osorio - --- - - -Silva------------Convey
-----------Brockie - - Earnshaw - - - - - -

Again, many will think this is nuts but I think that we are good enough to keep RSL on their heels the whole game and pot 2-3 goals.

Earnshaw and Brockie should get plenty of service from that bunch.

It would also be a hell of a lot more interesting soccer than we have seen for a while.

[Pint]

When will ecks be back, I though he had a shot at being back this weekend or at least by montreal

[tiberius]

Plata wants to be treated kindly on Saturday. He just tweeted this.

"Ready to travel to TORONTO! Happy to go back to Toronto I love this city. #Home (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Home&src=hash)#fans (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fans&src=hash)#friends (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23friends&src=hash)#Everything (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Everything&src=hash)"

I am sure Caldwell will be working on his old "Dero welcome", just for Plata.:D

[Ajax TFC]

Speaking of Ecks, what the fack is taking him so long? I though it was just a hamstring strain, which players generally recover from after a few weeks, not several months. Is our medical staff that shitty, or have I been misinformed about what his injury is?

[nonc]

Speaking of Ecks, what the fack is taking him so long? I though it was just a hamstring strain, which players generally recover from after a few weeks, not several months. Is our medical staff that shitty, or have I been misinformed about what his injury is?

I believe 3-4 weeks after the initial injury he had a significant setback which was much worse than the original strain. I may have heard the word tear.

[jloome]

Speaking of Ecks, what the fack is taking him so long? I though it was just a hamstring strain, which players generally recover from after a few weeks, not several months. Is our medical staff that shitty, or have I been misinformed about what his injury is?

He tore it in practice while coming back and is out for the forseeable future.

[Stress]

I predict TFC wins 1-0 on a Plata own goal off a corner kick in the 70-75th minute. At least this is what happened in my dream last night. Although to be fair, I woke up right after the goal so I should probably assume RSL will score close to the 90th min and tie the game.

[West220Side]

When will ecks be back, I though he had a shot at being back this weekend or at least by montreal

The home match where Eckersley was outside the gates signing autographs (June 6th) I mentioned how much I as a fan missed having him on the pitch, and he said (at that time) he was about two weeks away, and really eager to get back at it. So you're all right he should be eligible tomorrow unless something has changed, right?

[Alonso]

When will ecks be back, I though he had a shot at being back this weekend or at least by montreal


From Ecks mouth to sportsnet.ca today:http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/tfc-unhappy-with-csa-over-canadian-players/ (in the notes section at the bottom of the article)

"Defender Richard Eckersley, who’s been out with a long-term hamstring injury, told sportsnet.ca he expects to return to full training next week and could be available to play after TFC’s break in early July"

[Leedsoronto]

C'mon u reds

6th min Laba

TFC hold on for a 1-0 Win :@)

[Haddy]

Rain or shine, enjoy the match everyone.

[DigzTFC!]

Expect another frustrating game from the referees:

MLS Career: 39 games; FC/gm: 23.1; Y/gm: 2.8; R: 8; pens: 14

Inexperienced, card happy and give away a lot of penalties. Usually refs like this try to show up the home crowd to show they're in control. Look for a flop penalty and a red card against TFC

[DigzTFC!]

Hopefully, I'm wrong.

[Yohan]

#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) XI: Bendik; Richter, Henry, Caldwell, O'Dea; Osorio, Laba, Hall, Convey; Brockie, Koevermans. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash) #MLS (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash)

#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) substitutes: Roberts; Agbossoumonde, Morgan, Russell, Lambe, Silva, Braun. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash) #MLS (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash)

[billyfly]

Decided not to go. Go Reds.

[Stress]

A.Maund starting for RSL!? We might actually pull out a W

[notthesun]

Maund starting in CB. We should be hitting Koevermans with crosses all day.

...

Hear that Richter?

[jloome]

#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) XI: Bendik; Richter, Henry, Caldwell, O'Dea; Osorio, Laba, Hall, Convey; Brockie, Koevermans. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)#MLS (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash)

#TFC (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFC&src=hash) substitutes: Roberts; Agbossoumonde, Morgan, Russell, Lambe, Silva, Braun. #TFClive (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TFClive&src=hash)#MLS (https://twitter.com/search?q=%23MLS&src=hash)

Earnshaw not on the bench even. Maybe that deal isn't as close as they thought.

[Yohan]

Earnshaw not on the bench even. Maybe that deal isn't as close as they thought.
injury

[Corpand]

Any TSN Streams?

I believe this pairing of Brockie and the Koev up front will pay dividends. They play a similar passing game and seem to read off each other quite well (saw them doing some crazy one-twos earlier this week).

[AlanO]

Any TSN Streams?
MLS Live has the TSN feed, if you have an account.

[dantdot]

http://www.firstrow1.eu/watch/193325/1/watch-toronto-fc-vs-seattle-sounders-fc.html

[Dkolish3]

Maund starting in CB. We should be hitting Koevermans with crosses all day.

...

Hear that Richter?

You seem to forget TFC's golden rule EVERYONE is better after they leave the team

[Yohan]

dear lord. Richter just lost possession to Plata lol

[DoubleUp]

I wonder if Nelsen realizes not playing silva(our best passer) directly effects how we retain the ball.

[OgtheDim]

Gosh those TSN guys do like to focus on what is front of them on paper rather then on the pitch. Brockie does a nice nuisance bit on their keeper and they ignore it completely.

[AlanO]

Koev's hold up play has been great

[notthesun]

I wonder if Nelsen realizes not playing silva(our best passer) directly effects how we retain the ball.

Silva's been so much better off the bench than starting this year, I have no problem with him not starting this one.

That last chance was a good one, unfortunately Convey overhit his first touch just a tad. Basically the only situation in which I'd prefer Ephraim over him.

[OgtheDim]

Henry ain't that good at passing.

[Dkolish3]

What kind of clearance was that Bendik?

[ag futbol]

How hurting is our attendance when the crowd looks like this for a saturday game on a long weekend? I know the forecast said rain for today, but still... this isn't good

[DoubleUp]

Silva's been so much better of the bench than starting this year, I have no problem with him not starting this one.

That last chance was a good one, unfortunately Convey overhit his first touch just a tad. Basically the only situation in which I'd prefer Ephraim over him.

Thats because he has played majority of the season out position and in a long ball playing style.......He has the most key passes in the team, which means he is directly/indirectly responsible for alot of or scoring chances.

[mowe]

Man RSL can exploit the smallest mistakes. TFC needs to be organized today.

[jloome]

Brockie's looked good so far, a real annoyance. Closing a bit late in our end. Bit too much ball watching.

[Yohan]

Looks like one of those days when strikers get rotten luck

[AlanO]

Richter with a couple of decent crosses in the last few minutes. His defending has been sketchy though.

[Corpand]

Very good game from us so far. This matchup is going to become incredible once there are some tired legs on the field (already started). I'm enjoying the tactics of this and how well our boys are holding their two lines.

EDIT: Also I see how tricky Convey can be. Just not seeing him much at the moment, wonder how he will play on the right now.

[DoubleUp]

convey had to strike that on target.

[v00d00daddy]

Good game so far. Back and forth and TFC are keeping up.

This ref has been really bad (in our favour). Totally ignored the Richter handball just now and has already given out two yellows based on yelling from our players. Mark my words.....we are going to get some shitty calls against us.

[mowe]

Ya this ref is horrible. Hopefully today that works out in our favour.

[Ivy]

Lmao Koef... Great defensive tackle there

[notthesun]

Laba is a beast, hopefully all his detractors have admitted as much by now.

[jloome]

Good game so far. Back and forth and TFC are keeping up.

This ref has been really bad (in our favour). Totally ignored the Richter handball just now and has already given out two yellows based on yelling from our players. Mark my words.....we are going to get some shitty calls against us.

Although if it were Maruffo, Garcia would have gone off for going in two footed, and Palmer might have gone off for the late body check. Either of those was technically flagrant and dangerous.

[ag futbol]

We really need to upgrade hall in the middle. He's fine as bench depth but not an ideal starter.

[jloome]

Anyone ever wonders how RSL stayed competitive after moving so many people the answer is Morale and Beckerman. Those two run a midfield.

[Corpand]

I have to say, Koev seems fired up. He's feeling the first start thats for sure.

[mowe]

Laba was calling for the pass there when Richter crossed it.

[jloome]

Eek, this ref is shit.

[notthesun]

Has Richter been reading these boards? Nothing concrete but a few decent balls into the box that we can at least challenge for.

edit: Penalty? Seemed a decent shout...

[AlanO]

Palmer should have been sent off by now

[OgtheDim]

We really need to upgrade hall in the middle. He's fine as bench depth but not an ideal starter.

Give it about 3 weeks.

[OgtheDim]

Aaaa...there's the Plata we know an love. Cutting across and passing it to nowhere.

Don't miss him.

[v00d00daddy]

Although if it were Maruffo, Garcia would have gone off for going in two footed, and Palmer might have gone off for the late body check. Either of those was technically flagrant and dangerous.

Maybe but I think that would have been harsh.

[Ivy]

Wow. Beauty.

[v00d00daddy]

Fuck. Nice shot. Bendik didn't move.

Brockie is causing trouble but he looks like a fucking idiot flopping around every time somebody touches him.

[ag futbol]

That's pretty unfair considering how we played for most of the first half... but man we really need to be more ruthless up front. Chances have gone begging

[mowe]

RSL scores just before halftime. 0-1.

[jloome]

Yeah. Can 't complain about that half. Both sides played it tight, chances minimal and the one goal a fucking rocket.

[notthesun]

Ugh. That's a backbreaker. Right before halftime and we really were right in this game.

Way too much space at the top of the box for whoever got the assist.

[OgtheDim]

Wow...that won't win goal of the week but it probably should.

[ag futbol]

Don't think the referring has been too bad by MLS standards. Those two yellows on RSL were straight on. Koeveman's was a little bit light, but you could argue it was tactical, so I wouldn't begrudge it too much.

He's missed a few fouls here and there, but that's MLS for you.

[Yohan]

Need Silva for Hall

[AlanO]

Need Silva for Hall
I'd like to see this too

[Corpand]

A small lapse in concentration from O'Dea started their goal. Was a good good goal though.

We need someone running off Koev. Brockie is not handling the physical side so far. Always seems one step behind.

Put fkn' Silva in. Replace Hall. Thanks.

[OgtheDim]

Koevs isn't going to last 90, and neither is Brockie. I expect us to be finishing with Braun and Silva up front, and maybe Lambe in for Convey near the end. Far from ideal.

[Stress]

Sitting in the north end. O'dea needs to do a lot better to justify that salary. Made a number of mistakes and wasnt doing much on that goal. Also screamed at joe to "hurry the fuck up" so loud that everyone in this section and probably a few others definitely heard. They then we're yelling at each other for a minute afterward. Pretty classless for a Captain of the team. I think he needs to go or dropped as captain to humble him a little.

[notthesun]

Ref's getting on my nerves. Clear foul on Laba, nothing.

[Corpand]

It's hillarious to watch this ref sometimes.
A foul for us happens. RSL and TFC players both almost stop play because they all saw the foul. The Ref Assist is twitching, trying to hold his flag by the side, but obviously he saw it.
Ref just didnt give a fuck. WHo is this guy?

[Corpand]

PS They just mentioned that we are trying to trade o'Dea on the States broadcast. Said it was kinda hush hush for now. Any ideas?

[notthesun]

Another decent ball by Richter. Seriously what is going on?

[mowe]

Silly foul by O'Dea, the ball was going nowhere.

[AlanO]

PS They just mentioned that we are trying to trade o'Dea on the States broadcast. Said it was kinda hush hush for now. Any ideas?

The only way anyone takes O'Dea in a trade is if TFC eats a large chunk of his cap hit.

[jloome]

PS They just mentioned that we are trying to trade o'Dea on the States broadcast. Said it was kinda hush hush for now. Any ideas?

My guess would be Andy Roxburgh at NY Red Bulls, teh former Scotland coach.

He probably sees him as their ideal centre half to pair with Olave.

If we could get Jonny Steele and some decent defensive cover, we could come out ahead and save some serious salary cap.

[Corpand]

My guess would be Andy Roxburgh at NY Red Bulls, teh former Scotland coach.

He probably sees him as their ideal centre half to pair with Olave.

If we could get Jonny Steele and some decent defensive cover, we could come out ahead and save some serious salary cap.

Tell me friend. Vat do you know?

[v00d00daddy]

Hahaha. These officials are blind.

Convey looked like a basketball player dribbling down field there. LOL

[notthesun]

We're finally getting a number of good balls in the box and Koevermans is sitting on the bench.

[notthesun]

O'Dea you fucking moron.

[v00d00daddy]

O'Dea you fucking moron.

Agreed. He looks like a fucking idiot out there.

[Ivy]

Yeah... O'Dear is losing it.

[Corpand]

I think Morgan was supposed to start today, O'Dea was promised to be in instead of Henry. So he's playing like shit and grumpy at everyone.
Aaaaand if there's a trade looming for him, he ain't too cheerful. Needs to be careful.

[mowe]

Some good passing but I don't know if it'll be enough to score.

[ag futbol]

Our buildup play is entirely pear shaped. We drive to the corner flags and swing in balls to the box. We should at least try to utilize the middle sometimes and get a few shots from distance

[notthesun]

Agreed. He looks like a fucking idiot out there.

He chews out Garcia for I don't know what. Then he's pissed off, everyone in the stadium knows the ref is specifically keeping an eye on him and then he mauls Garcia again. I mean what the fuck? Keep your head, you're not helping anyone but RSL with that shit.

[DoubleUp]

Our buildup play is entirely pear shaped. We drive to the corner flags and swing in balls to the box. We should at least try to utilize the middle sometimes and get a few shots from distance


Our style of play doesnt suit our core, like I said b4 we are a ball on the grass team.

[ag futbol]

Ok, I take it back, this ref is shit.

[ag futbol]

Man Henry has to keep his head there. That was just stupid, this team is undisciplined.

[JavierMartini]

Ok, I take it back, this ref is shit.

he really is, what the fuck were those calls, completely biased. it helps that tfc players dont go down in a heap, they stumble and keep on playing.

[mowe]

Wow what a clusterfuck. Double red and a yellow.

[Ivy]

Who didn't see that coming? I'm surprised it wasn't ODea...

[AlanO]

Shut up, De Vos

[JavierMartini]

Man Henry has to keep his head there. That was just stupid, this team is undisciplined.

this team or henry? This team has a history of hot headed cbs though :/

[jloome]

this team or henry? This team has a history of hot headed cbs though :/

Beltran deserves a suspension. He tripped him, then stepped on him, then shoved silva back down to the ground. I know technically Henry gets a red there, but he was defending a grounded player and that looked more dramatic than it was because Beltran is half his size.

[v00d00daddy]

Beltran deserves a suspension. He tripped him, then stepped on him, then shoved silva back down to the ground. I know technically Henry gets a red there, but he was defending a grounded player and that looked more dramatic than it was because Beltran is half his size.

Watch it again.

Beltran tripped Silva to the ground
Silva kicks Beltran in the back of the leg. Beltran never stepped Silva. Silva actually knew the push was coming and tossed himself to embellish. He knew it was coming because he had just kicked Beltran.
Beltran pushes Silva down
Henry pushes Silva down.

Ref got it right except for the fact that Silva should have picked up at least a yellow.

[notthesun]

Bermudan Messi is back!

[JavierMartini]

Devos " toronto fc are going to have to get back in this game one man down 10 against 10" lolwut?

[ag futbol]

What's wrong with Earnshaw exactly? Or is this the start of the gradual cycle of "we bench you, then we cut you.

[AlanO]

If Henry's missing the next match anyways while he joins the CNMT, does that count as serving his MLS suspension?

[JavierMartini]

Oh look a non long ball got us a corner! What a surprise

[DoubleUp]

Our play in the attacking 3rd is to predictable.

[ag futbol]

I don't understand how any professional coach can keep justin Bruan on the field. It's like an indictment of your competency.

Guy can't do the most basic things that any soccer player is required to be effective.

[mowe]

How did that stay out..............


Another loss for TFC.

[DoubleUp]

wow!.

[jloome]

Ouch. So close, twice.

[AlanO]

Nick Rimando.. wow!

[notthesun]

Fuck this team. Just lose pathetically, don't give me hope like that.

[Brooker]

Nick Rimando.. wow!

Not very impressive on the replay. Not sure I would even call it a shot.

Fuck we suck.

[v00d00daddy]

Fuck this team. Just lose pathetically, don't give me hope like that.

I'll take that hope.

They lost but they weren't bad today. They weren't good but they weren't bad. LOL

Once Danny can get to an 80-85 minute fitness level they'll be okay.

Replacing Hall or Convey with more of an offensive impact player and they'll look even better. I'm not sure that it will results in consistent positive results but at least it a step in the right direction.

[Dv23]

I know this was a loss, but I'll be damned if it wasn't a fun game to watch. So happy to see koevermans up and about, bossing the 18. Hope he'll be able to stay out longer next time. Unfortunate he didn't put one away. We played very well and had some great chances. Really limited RSL to a handful of good shots but they capitalized with a great goal. I'd written off this season at the beginning of the year so really I don't care about the result, I just like the fact that we played well against the best team in the league.

[v00d00daddy]

I know this was a loss, but I'll be damned if it wasn't a fun game to watch. So happy to see koevermans up and about, bossing the 18. Hope he'll be able to stay out longer next time. Unfortunate he didn't put one away. We played very well and had some great chances. Really limited RSL to a handful of good shots but they capitalized with a great goal. I'd written off this season at the beginning of the year so really I don't care about the result, I just like the fact that we played well against the best team in the league.

We don't play Montreal until Wednesday. lol

[tfc2008]

Man Henry has to keep his head there. That was just stupid, this team is undisciplined.


EDIT: Maybe refrain from the lynching imagery when talking about black soccer players. -Shakes

[DigzTFC!]

Henry they have to hang him on a big tree,that guy is a peewee

You might want to edit your comment the imagery is a little...Any how, Henry is learning the art of a CB. When to stick up for your teammates, level of physicality,positioning and decision making etc. He's 20 years old. He will be an absolute gem in a couple years time.

Same issue as it's been since the dawn of TFC, they can't score. The system is fine, the majority of the players are fine but the wide play is horrible. To compound that we only play it through the flanks and over the top. Our offense is predictable, easy to defend, and is poorly executed. Hopefully that changes with the Latin players coming in. Otherwise a pretty decent defensive match.

[khso11]

1 clear penalty not called + 1 questionable penalty not called (Convey) + nick rimando on crack = 1-0 loss

[flamehawk]

Henry they have to hang him on a big tree,that guy is a peewee


Are you fucking kidding me? I can only hope that that is a very unfortunate, horrible choice of words.

[tfc2008]

When you guys like a real soccer team then open your eyes,and started to be serious.
How much red cards Henry has behind his name,a nice team player,and then stopped shit he is young bla bla bla,this city never gone get a good Mls team and you guys are people who can sit in front office because its all bullshit wat you guy talking.

[Oranje]

I don't think I could watch another game with Convey out there. Every touch was either a turnover, a back pass, or missing a staggering chance that any other player would have buried.

[ag futbol]

When you guys like a real soccer team then open your eyes,and started to be serious.
How much red cards Henry has behind his name,a nice team player,and then stopped shit he is young bla bla bla,this city never gone get a good Mls team and you guys are people who can sit in front office because its all bullshit wat you guy talking.
Dear god man, leave some of it in the LCBO for the rest of us.

[Alonso]

Dear god man, leave some of it in the LCBO for the rest of us.


g:D

Yup.


What he said.

[pawlukj]

was at the game.. RSL had the ball more in the first half but our chances were more dangerous, should of had a goal by the first half... we need to shoot the ball! way too many passes , it seems our players are afraid to give it a solid kick outside by yard box when you have enough space put it on target... one to many cross field pass attempts need to switch up the play a bit... bendick was solid as usual... the ending was decent too and we faired well against the top team in the west but these mounting Losses have already made for a disappointing season.. I can only dream of the days when we wont be out of playoff contention before June, how much more excitement would be in the air if we contended for a spot year in and year out.... SHOOT THE BALL!

[Shakes McQueen]

Are you fucking kidding me? I can only hope that that is a very unfortunate, horrible choice of words.


You might want to edit your comment the imagery is a little...Any how, Henry is learning the art of a CB. When to stick up for your teammates, level of physicality,positioning and decision making etc. He's 20 years old. He will be an absolute gem in a couple years time.

Same issue as it's been since the dawn of TFC, they can't score. The system is fine, the majority of the players are fine but the wide play is horrible. To compound that we only play it through the flanks and over the top. Our offense is predictable, easy to defend, and is poorly executed. Hopefully that changes with the Latin players coming in. Otherwise a pretty decent defensive match.

It's been handled.

- Scott

[Masked Man]

Same issue as it's been since the dawn of TFC, they can't score. The system is fine, the majority of the players are fine but the wide play is horrible. To compound that we only play it through the flanks and over the top. Our offense is predictable, easy to defend, and is poorly executed. Hopefully that changes with the Latin players coming in. Otherwise a pretty decent defensive match.

Tied for 2nd last in goals for with Chivas USA. Our goals against isn't that bad when you look at the fact that teams like Philadelphia, Vancouver, New York are in playoff spots while allowing more goals than TFC to this point.

As far as Henry's shove goes....Devos was bang on with the fact had he kept his composure we could have been up a man & had an advantage for the rest of the game. It's situations like this that show this team needs to do a way better job keeping their cool out there. We don't need that shit rubbing off on younger players....

[Richard]

No shame loosing to RSL, they have been the class of the league for the past few years. I wish it was next season already.

[ArmenJBX]

I had a chance to speak to Caldwell about staying at Toronto FC:

http://www.rednationonline.ca/Articles2012/StevenCaldwellsettostayatTorontoFC.aspx


“I’m looking forward to staying and bringing my family here and living here, experiencing all the great things that this city brings and this football club brings, and hopefully I can repay that by performing on the field and doing what this club wants me to do,” Caldwell added.

[Stress]

I find TFC get into way too many pushing matches/scuffles and I'm embarrassed when the crowd cheers it on. I understand sticking up for your teammates but we always take it way too far and then we use that moment post game as a positive to take away from the game(i.e. we fought hard and stuck up for each other). Time to start focusing that energy on scoring goals instead.

[Leedsoronto]

Just got home after the game and still pissed bout Henry being sent off. We could have had a man advantage with time left to miss a dozen more chances. :@)

Entertaining game tho, right up to the last min. Deserved at least a point. Maybe next time?

On the plus side we got free spaghetti upon departure....:@)

[69Chevy396]

No shame loosing to RSL, they have been the class of the league for the past few years. I wish it was next season already.
We have been losing to every team since 2007.

[Eastend]

2 thumbs up to the new GO schedule of a train every half hour now.

Dom

[Eastend]

I'm not sure what team/game some peole are watching but I see TFC improving and it is promosing. Entertaining game today.

Dom

[Marc"2L"]

Can't win at home and can only beat DC away, we lost half our fans last year, we lost a few more today...

if we don't win on Wednesday, it's will have been a full year since anybody that has paid money for an MLS game has seen this team win at BMO.

[jazzy]

When you guys like a real soccer team then open your eyes,and started to be serious.
How much red cards Henry has behind his name,a nice team player,and then stopped shit he is young bla bla bla,this city never gone get a good Mls team and you guys are people who can sit in front office because its all bullshit wat you guy talking.

have another drink and if this is your last post it's 2 too many. Do not appreciate your previous post. mods?

[jazzy]

I had a chance to speak to Caldwell about staying at Toronto FC:

http://www.rednationonline.ca/Articles2012/StevenCaldwellsettostayatTorontoFC.aspx

nice

[T-boy]

Entertaining game today mainly. I thought TFC mostly deserved to get something out of it, maybe a point? RSL had essentially one good half chance and scored from it. TFC, I would say, had multiple chances in this game. I don't think I've ever seen TFC cross so many balls into the box as today, but they were all a little short, never beating the first defender, or just behind/too far in front of any TFC striker. It was frustrating, but also good that we got to the position over and over to actually cross/create chances.

Brockie was all action man today, but a little like Dunfield - a lot of action and effort but not too much quality. But still, he was fun to watch! Convey was poor (again) - for a winger, he's like watching Bostock again - he never takes on his full back, he always goes backwards or sideways. Either he's completely lacking any confidence to try and go past a defender, or his skills really have gone since that injury in 2009(year?). I would have taken Convey off early and put maybe Russel on, who couldn't have done any worse!

Frustrating, but there was some entertainment and some positives in the actual creating of half-chances today. And apart from the goal, which was a great shot, RSL didn't look like scoring and the TFC defence seemed solid. O'Dea is actually turning into a fairly decent full back! It kinda showed how poor Convey was that all the great chances and crosses came from O'Dea, never from Convey! For a winger, Convey needs to be putting those crosses in and creating play.

[69Chevy396]

Can't win at home and can only beat DC away, we lost half our fans last year, we lost a few more today...

if we don't win on Wednesday, it's will have been a full year since anybody that has paid money for an MLS game has seen this team win at BMO.
This is truly shocking. A full year without a home victory cements the belief for me at least, that this is the worst pro soccer club of the past decade. Say what you will of a "new and improved" team, but the team that walked out onto the pitch in march 2007 was fun to watch, had promise, some decent players, and would defeat this current club in a meaningful game. Sad, sad, woeful.

[burlington Red]

This is truly shocking. A full year without a home victory cements the belief for me at least, that this is the worst pro soccer club of the past decade. Say what you will of a "new and improved" team, but the team that walked out onto the pitch in march 2007 was fun to watch, had promise, some decent players, and would defeat this current club in a meaningful game. Sad, sad, woeful.

where u not at KC game in March or Montreal game in April

[Blizzard]

Finally able to watch the replay of Brockie going down in the box. It was a very sly though risky move by the defender who drags his left leg slightly taking out Brockie's right leg. Watching from the back of 113 I didn’t know what to make of it at the time as it was very quick and very subtle but it is clear in the video. Fooled the ref it seems.

Nelsen's post match comment that if the referee didn’t think it was a penalty, he should have carded Brockie for diving is reasonable enough in and of itself I suppose.

[Detroit_TFC]

Really should have been a 0-0 game (or maybe 1-1). Neither side generated all that many quality chances.

RSL was needlessly thuggish in their fouls. And then we reciprocated when it became clear that the ref was not cracking down on them. MLS reffing is a shambles and getting worse, not better.

I think the only thing that surprised me today was going through most of the 2nd half not really worrying about us giving up a late goal.

[T-boy]

That tackle on Koev's in the first ten minutes (even though the whistle had already blown) was disgusting - half way up Koev's leg by his knee. I think after that time I knew the ref was going to just let RSL beat TFC black and blue.

[Abou Sky]

I can't believe we lost that game.

My take on why we did...

Ref had no control over the game, after 20 minutes I said it was going to end badly because TFC would just start playing dirty out of spite.

The first 20 mins was possibly the best I have seen them play. After that the youth and inexperience showed in that they lost their concentration.

We have great players, we need a good shrink though.

[stevielarson]

where u not at KC game in March or Montreal game in April

Not at bmo and not in league play?

[Still Kicking]

I can't believe we lost that game.

My take on why we did...

Ref had no control over the game, after 20 minutes I said it was going to end badly because TFC would just start playing dirty out of spite.

The first 20 mins was possibly the best I have seen them play. After that the youth and inexperience showed in that they lost their concentration.

We have great players, we need a good shrink though.

Total agreement here about the ref comments, don't think a shrink is needed, just a coach who demands respect. When the pushing broke out I was on my feet in 220 yelling "this is all on you ref". On one hand I think mature restraint would have saved Henry from a red card.... on the other hand I sometimes think that TFC should go further and make an issue of it. O'Dea makes a comment in that regard in his post game interview - if a shove gets you a red card, then why not throw a punch? The issue is one of respect, if the ref is not going to protect the home team, he is inviting the visiting team to take liberties. Then the home crowd will turn against the ref. I think that the shaky quality of MLS refs seems to be compounded by their stance that being immune to the home team and the crowd makes them more of a "pro". Hey ref, ever watched a game played at Old Trafford in the last quarter century?
I noted at the end of the game not one Toronto FC player or coach went and shook hands with the refs. A huge step in the right direction. If I were coach (and I know strange logic, I turned away from hockey, my childhood sport because of the mindless fighting and intimidation), I would tell the players that the next time a ref loses control, the opponents start flopping and get away with it, cross the line. Dichio did it, Conway did it. As coach I would tell the media "what is this ? Rodney Dangerfield Memorial Stadium?"

[Still Kicking]

Fact of the matter is.....Beltran crossed the line. Is it possible that Silva played him dirty? Sure. Beltran can complain to the ref and plead his case. Push a Toronto player over in Toronto? He should have been punched repeatedly, shirt ripped off his back and tossed off the field by a multitude of TFC players. Right now Beltran is off to the Gold Cup with a smile on his face. His team won. His red was balanced by a TFC red. He took a risk, but will consider doing it again next time at BMO.
He should be using ice to ease his aching head, be grumpy about pics of his torn shirt all over the internet and vowing to himself to never, ever, ever push a Toronto player over in Toronto for as long as he lives.....
Nelsen has me as a huge fan. He said he wanted to make his team a hard one to beat. Hope he reads this.....

[T-boy]

I'm sure you are right, TFC are a hard team to beat right now. But we still need to take the step to a winning team. The next week to ten days will show what direction we are going in and weather we move towards a winning team - we have the top allocation spot to deal with, some signings, trades, waivers - it could be an interesting week!

[ag futbol]

I thought the referring was terrible, but the game was still there for us to take.

You would have to be crazy to call our attack dynamic. It’s incredibly stagnant. We really only had two ways of making it forward Saturday: one was long balls over the top and the other was Osorio or Convey getting wide and trying to play that ball into the near post. Sad as it was, the wingers put in a few good balls but nobody got on the end of them. Forwards didn't do their job IMO, and Jeremy Hall plays way too defensively anchored in the middle.

More talent is needed up top, but I’d like to see more commitment to playing attacking football as well. The old refrain of “we’re in every game because the score is close” is getting a little stale.

[Abou Sky]

I won't 'blame' the ref for our loss.

It is our own lack of mental toughness and discipline that lost us the game, the ref is what set our boys heads spinning though.

A coach can say 'ignore it and just play your game' but a good sport psychologist will give them the tools to ignore the shit ref and just play their game.

I still feel like we are on the right track.

[Still Kicking]

I too feel TFC is on the right track. I am hoping that the expected moves in the days/weeks ahead will move TFC to the next stage. Attacking players are needed in a few spots.

Just felt that taking on the spine of a winning team that feels that it owns home field is a step that must be taken no matter what the scoreboard says. If it takes sparkling talent to beat a team, this squad is a few players short. In the meantime, a touch of mean and a demanding attitude to refs would not hurt.

[nonc]

That tackle on Koev's in the first ten minutes (even though the whistle had already blown) was disgusting - half way up Koev's leg by his knee. I think after that time I knew the ref was going to just let RSL beat TFC black and blue.

I have not seen a replay of the early foul on Koevermans but my initial thought was there should have been a card, it could have been straight red. Minimal contact doesn't make up for showing your spikes at knee-level with a high velocity slide. Extremely reckless and dangerous. Final foul total 18-9 favouring RSL. :rolleyes:

[T-boy]

Couple of comments on former TFC players in this one.

First, it was a pleasure to see Richter tie Plata up. Plata didn't get much of a shout all game. Richter did well.

On the other hand - I think I'm right in saying that was Maund's first ever game for RSL?! I've no idea how this happened, but he looked anything but a pro footballer last season, but he had an outstanding game yesterday! His last tackle heroics was much of the difference between RSL winning or drawing/losing. He looked a different class of footballer compared to the guy who TFC released. I bet RSL think they've got a total bargain after that performance! I guess, good for him?! He played very well!

[jloome]

Couple of comments on former TFC players in this one.

First, it was a pleasure to see Richter tie Plata up. Plata didn't get much of a shout all game. Richter did well.

On the other hand - I think I'm right in saying that was Maund's first ever game for RSL?! I've no idea how this happened, but he looked anything but a pro footballer last season, but he had an outstanding game yesterday! His last tackle heroics was much of the difference between RSL winning or drawing/losing. He looked a different class of footballer compared to the guy who TFC released. I bet RSL think they've got a total bargain after that performance! I guess, good for him?! He played very well!

Shortpants McStupid insisted on playing him as a defensive midfielder. He isn't close to the finished product yet, so reading a two-way position at pro speed was way out of his league. At centre half he has a partner to keep him positioned, in check. At that point, there's the fact that he's a monster athlete, apparently. So it was ego-wrecking, in all likelihood, to be overused and overexposed while out of his league, thanks to idiot boy.

[Yohan]

Couple of comments on former TFC players in this one.

First, it was a pleasure to see Richter tie Plata up. Plata didn't get much of a shout all game. Richter did well.

On the other hand - I think I'm right in saying that was Maund's first ever game for RSL?! I've no idea how this happened, but he looked anything but a pro footballer last season, but he had an outstanding game yesterday! His last tackle heroics was much of the difference between RSL winning or drawing/losing. He looked a different class of footballer compared to the guy who TFC released. I bet RSL think they've got a total bargain after that performance! I guess, good for him?! He played very well!
Maund's first league game. Apparently was garbage on a US Open Cup game before and was like 5th on depth chart at CB for RSL but he had a decent game.