Matchday 27: Toronto at Chicago, Sat 13 Sept 830pm

[Yohan]

Basically if TFC doesn't get at least a point against lowly Chicago, we are toast. Or almost toast. Next 2 games will define the season. And Chicago is in a middling form. Although they lost Mike Magee for the rest of the season, Earnshaw has started hot for them, and now Florent Sinama-Pongolle has signed for the Fire.

I'll be happy with a dreary 1-1 draw.

[Joe Kool]

Basically if TFC doesn't get at least a point against lowly Chicago, we are toast. Or almost toast. Next 2 games will define the season. And Chicago is in a middling form. Although they lost Mike Magee for the rest of the season, Earnshaw has started hot for them, and now Florent Sinama-Pongolle has signed for the Fire.

I'll be happy with a dreary 1-1 draw.

Earnshaw started hot for our team as well for a couple games but then cooled off. Hopefully he will cool off for them too and won't be putting any more past us this weekend. Hopefully Amarikwa won't be adding any more to his tally either against us. Hoping for us to pull out the first win in the Vanney era.

[Yohan]

Vanney does talk a good game


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAaYnhgJgv0&list=UUc1qA_64TEqAX9pnGJOO0Dw

[Initial B]

If we have the same backline and trouble scoring, I say TFC loses 2-0. If we get back Caldwell and Gilberto and Moore get back some form, then I could see a 2-1 victory for TFC. But I'm thinking it will be more like a 1-1 or 2-2 draw.

[jloome]

If we have the same backline and trouble scoring, I say TFC loses 2-0. If we get back Caldwell and Gilberto and Moore get back some form, then I could see a 2-1 victory for TFC. But I'm thinking it will be more like a 1-1 or 2-2 draw.

Chicago is one of the teams we need to get max points from to have a shot. We should be able to dominate their midfield and they have several players out. I'm going with 2-0 TFC.

[dupont]

TFC is playing without confidence recently. I'm not optimistic especially since Chicago is the home team that will be getting all the calls from the ref. You never know though, maybe a road game is what they need without the pressure to not lose again in front of the home fans. Chicago is a very beatable team too.

[Pookie]

You have to expect a win as it is really the only logical outcome that feeds the playoff push.

Now, I hope saying that we expect a win doesn't agitate any player... how dumb does that sound? Regardless, I believe the players want to win. The coach wants a win and Bez NEEDS a win.

I am optimistic for a win.

[flamehawk]

Well, the pressure has increased further with NY managing to score a goal to win the game in the dying minutes against DC. NY leap frog ahead with 36 points.

[Ultra & Proud]

Now, I hope saying that we expect a win doesn't agitate any player.
I am optimistic for a win.
Firstly, you jinxed and shattered the fragile mental state of the squad by suggesting they should win the game. We should be talking about gelling and finding an identity and other fluff that doesn't upset the modern athlete :drinking:.


Second. I am calling for a clean sheet. Against us. Again. And also a continuance of our anchor like descent into our usual positioning at the arse of the league table.

[OgtheDim]

Today should be a press day at Kia, I would think. Should hear about Caldwell and Morrow.

[DOMIN8R]

Today should be a press day at Kia, I would think. Should hear about Caldwell and Morrow.


.......and more specific information on Defoe's return, please.

[pdubs]

You have to expect a win as it is really the only logical outcome that feeds the playoff push.

Now, I hope saying that we expect a win doesn't agitate any player... how dumb does that sound? Regardless, I believe the players want to win. The coach wants a win and Bez NEEDS a win.

I am optimistic for a win.

Forget their feelings. They are "professionals" apparently, haha. Like you said tho we need the win. Not only to stay in the playoff hunt but to also make a statement that this team has fight in them.

A draw is the minimum we must have but that really doesn't do much for morale. Bradley keeps saying this team has fight left in it we need to see it.

Unfortunately with the state of the defensive line without Morrow/Caldwell back there this will be extremely tough. I think our offensive can clink but if we look back to a bunch of the most recent games its given up the early goal early that set's us back a ton. Without a healthy defense I am not overly optimistic. We tend to handicap ourselves so bad with these soft, soft goals. Not just lately but throughout the season whether it be penalties or defensive blunders.

[Ultra & Proud]

Unfortunately with the state of the defensive line without Morrow/Caldwell back there this will be extremely tough.
Add to that Henry suspended for yellow card accumulation and Morgan still serving his one game suspension for the red card two weeks ago (as per the MLS website) and we have almost nothing at the back barring miraculous horse-placenta laced healings. And Richter got sent back to Ottawa.

[levyashin]

T.F.C. have never won in Chicago so law of averages say now is the time.
This could be the start of something new.
I am going to bet the farm on a 2-0 win for T.F.C.
This came to me in dream last night!:drinking:

[pdubs]

Add to that Henry suspended for yellow card accumulation and Morgan still serving his one game suspension for the red card two weeks ago (as per the MLS website) and we have almost nothing at the back barring miraculous horse-placenta laced healings. And Richter got sent back to Ottawa.

Forgot about Henry! oh man

[Ultra & Proud]

Bring back Garcia, Hscanovics, Iro, & Usanov! All answers to the ball moving defender conundrum be solved!

[jloome]

Bring back Garcia, Hscanovics, Iro, & Usanov! All answers to the ball moving defender conundrum be solved!

Although if we're being honest, moving the ball into our own net probably shouldn't count.

[OgtheDim]

Caldwell is playing - I'm 99% sure.

[Ultra & Proud]

Caldwell is playing - I'm 99% sure.
But is he good enough for a full 90 without risking missing the last 7 matches with more quad trouble?

[OgtheDim]

But is he good enough for a full 90 without risking missing the last 7 matches with more quad trouble?

Apparently not.

Vanny saying Morrow will play but Caldwell isn't ready yet.

[Derko]

Out on a limb here, but 2-1 for the good guys. 1 for Gilberto and 1 for Moore. Fuck Defoe, he can stay home with his Tampon up his ass sideways.

[Carts]

Out on a limb here, but 2-1 for the good guys. 1 for Gilberto and 1 for Moore.

I'd love to see a 3-nil TFC win with Gilberto scoring; from open play, free kick, penalty kick...

But I'll take a 2-1 win with Moore adding one! g:D

[trane]

Vanney does talk a good game


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAaYnhgJgv0&list=UUc1qA_64TEqAX9pnGJOO0Dw

At first glance of this, I thought "did we not fire Nelsen", but then I heard a Canadian accent.

[Alonso]

Vanney does talk a good game


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAaYnhgJgv0&list=UUc1qA_64TEqAX9pnGJOO0Dw


Best coach with regards to interviews and media relations that's for sure.

[barticusz]

Best coach with regards to interviews and media relations that's for sure.

After the last few abysmal displays by this team I'm forcing myself into a two week hiatus of watching. Here's hoping we can turn it around this week.

[OgtheDim]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5hQM_J7LH8&list=UUc1qA_64TEqAX9pnGJOO0Dw

[Alonso]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5hQM_J7LH8&list=UUc1qA_64TEqAX9pnGJOO0Dw


He's an interview Guru

Hope the team can walk the walk

[OgtheDim]

2-1 loss.

Defence won't hold. Offence will move the ball around better.

If we do not see significant improvement from the last 2 games, with better ball movement and player movement off the ball, and a consistant high line, then Vanney is not being listened to and the players have given up.

We have to see TFC adjust to opponent's tactics.

[QBall]

Chicago has no Magee, no Earnshaw and no Pongolle as he doesn't have the proper Visa to play in the U.S. This should be an easy win for the Reds as Chicago really has nothing going for them.

[Defoe]

make or break tonight boys... if you can't beat Chicago then your not making the playoffs anyways. Bradley will have to carry this team on his back the rest of the way... he can't just be ok or good he has to be excellent. Morrow might be our best defender, so getting him back is huge. Gilberto has to be good... he needs to score. We're not a great team, but we have pieces that can sneak us in to the playoffs. common boys #tfc #believe

[Hamilton_Red]

Has to be a win. Absolutely essential or else the collapse is complete.

[mowe]

Chicago has no Magee, no Earnshaw and no Pongolle as he doesn't have the proper Visa to play in the U.S. This should be an easy win for the Reds as Chicago really has nothing going for them.

Should've been an easy win when they came to BMO too...

[Initial B]

Has to be a win. Absolutely essential or else the collapse is complete.

No, the collapse will only be complete if we lose to Chivas next week.

[JayMolly]

Chicago has no Magee, no Earnshaw and no Pongolle as he doesn't have the proper Visa to play in the U.S. This should be an easy win for the Reds as Chicago really has nothing going for them.

We like your prediction, however, there is nothing easy when it comes to TFC.
We need the points!!!!
J&M

[Red CB Toronto]

Hail to the Reds !!!

[notthesun]

Larson says expect some changes in the XI tonight.

[Red CB Toronto]

It is time for the Reds to stand up and make a statement, time to win and keep their drive towards the playoffs going.

[ensco]

Should've been an easy win when they came to BMO too...

They're not that bad. They are sunk because of all the ties, but in the won/lost column they have an identical record to TFC.

[Ivy]

So...that starting XI... Interesting.

[Ivy]

@torontofc: The @ExpediaCA Starting XI: Bendik, Bloom, Hagglund, Morrow, Morgan, Bekker, Bradley, Creavalle, Oduro, Gilberto, Jackson. #TFCLive

[notthesun]

I'm guessing that's a 4-3-3? Interesting seeing as Vanney said he was going to stick with a 4-4-2.

[Yohan]

4-1-4-1?

[OgtheDim]

Well it ain't going to be a standard 4-4-2, that's for sure.

4-1-4-1 it looks like.

[OgtheDim]

The field is crap. 3 gridiron games on it this week. Yallop has apologised.

Brown patches.

Going to be ugly for ball control.


***

Osorio still injured.

Bench: Konopka, Orr, Richter, Hall, Lovitz, Moore, De Rosario

[CommradePolski]

No Dike either?

No Warner?

[PopePouri]

Thank you Vanney! Let's see how this does.

[OgtheDim]

Morrow as CD. Probably good given the athleticism/diving ability of their front two. But I still can't see them keeping Chicago out.

[PopePouri]

I'm guessing that's a 4-3-3? Interesting seeing as Vanney said he was going to stick with a 4-4-2.

He said it's structured to play a 4-4-2 but Nelsen used a 4-3-3 in attack when Osorio was fit.

With Creavalle playing no. 6, I expect Bradley to be everywhere. No excuses for him to run himself silly.

[Ivy]

No Dike either?

No Warner?

Hmmm...
The warner thing could be a blessing.

[CommradePolski]

Hmmm...
The warner thing could be a blessing.

Would still be useful as a sub for Bekker/Creavalle.

[flamehawk]

Surprised Warner isn't even on the bench unless it's an injury. Otherwise, I wonder if Warner reacted poorly to being subbed off early last match.

[Yohan]

Morgan losing his man again. Ugh

[QBall]

The pitch looks awful.

[Ivy]

This defense... My god.

[Gilberto9]

Any streams? My SN360 is just a black screen...

[QBall]

Bendik with the nice save on the free kck

[Ivy]

Any streams? My SN360 is just a black screen...
First row

[notthesun]

Where the hell was Morgan on that counter attack just then? Awful positioning.

[bigredone]

Would still be useful as a sub for Bekker/Creavalle.

For Bekker, now!

[Yohan]

that's twice morgan failed to mark ward

[PopePouri]

Chicago with some sweaty FIFA play.

[Defoe]

Bloom is seriously bad... give him to Orlando

[QBall]

Crap. Defensive lapse n the corner bites us again.

[0bl1vious]

VLC stream (HD)

http://nlds43.cdnak.neulion.com/nlds/mls/chicagofire/as/live/chicagofire_hd_4500.m3u8 (http://nlds43.cdnak.neulion.com/nlds/mls/chicagofire/as/live/chicagofire_hd_4500.m3u8)

[notthesun]

Season's done. This team is shell shocked, panicked and absolutely terrified.

I very much doubt we win a game for the rest of the season.

[Dkolish3]

The dream is dead, panic, for god sakes panic

[Yohan]

we're toast

[QBall]

Bradley seems to be the only TFC with a sense of urgency.

[Nerepis]

At least we pass the ball side to side and backwards well:facepalm:

[Dkolish3]

Bradley seems to be the only TFC with a sense of urgency.

He's also the only player being passed to thou

[Defoe]

Bekker is god awful, yikes

[flamehawk]

Well, Morrow is heads and shoulders above, the best defender in the team.

[Defoe]

can Bradley please stop playing defense?

[molenshtain]

Well, Morrow is heads and shoulders above, the best defender in the team.

he's so good.

[Defoe]

Well, Morrow is heads and shoulders above, the best defender in the team.

yep, no doubt about it

[QBall]

At least Houston is leading Columbus 1-0.

[Ivy]

*sigh*... Is anybody else yelling at their TV?

[OgtheDim]

Dunleavy......so many notes, so little insight.

[Dkolish3]

*sigh*... Is anybody else yelling at their TV?

Not really we all knew that TFC was missing the playoffs when Nelson was fired and Defoe left

[azorean]

When this season is mercifully over and the meltdown is complete i don't want to hear excuses about the Defoe situation, injuries, coaching, etc...we were promised playoffs, end of.

[flamehawk]

*sigh*... Is anybody else yelling at their TV?

No yelling ... just faint sobs

[QBall]

When this season is mercifully over and the meltdown is complete i don't want to hear excuses about the Defoe situation, injuries, coaching, etc...we were promised playoffs, end of.

Yeah but the guy who promised it is buggering off so there'll be no accountability for making the statement.

[notthesun]

What fucking use is Bradley when the only time he's on the ball is in our own third getting it from our defenders and passing it to sideways and backwards.

We're a fucking mess.

[Dkolish3]

Yeah but the guy who promised it is buggering off so there'll be no accountability for making the statement.

Well at least Bez and Vanney will be fired

[OgtheDim]

Crevalle doesn't have the discipline to stick back as DM. It causing the shape to wobble in the middle.

I like the 4-1-4-1 but we need a DM who will stick back there and be that 1.


We are playing a lot better then against Philly. I like Bradley when he's released. Our defence is still bad, Bloom unable to mark on set pieces and Morgan getting caught (and he still can't cross). But, this game is far from over.

[QBall]

The boys are finding lots of holes in the middle. I get the feeling a goal for TFC is coming.

[notthesun]

Gilberto has to have the worst treatment from refs in the league. Gets a talking to for sliding a full 3 feet away from a guy.

[Defoe]

my god bloom... just get off the field

[molenshtain]

what the fuck is up with this pitch?

[Jack]

I rushed home from an errand as fast as I could to catch as much of the first half as I could. Sat down and saw the scoreline.

My subsequent reaction was this:

:facepalm:

and then:

:drinking:

At this point, there's nothing else I can do.

[notthesun]

Wow Jackson you idiot, and wow Gantar you are just oblivious? What kind of ref doesn't call that...

[QBall]

Jackson flattens Ward. Looks like he's been watching the Leafs.

[OgtheDim]

what the fuck is up with this pitch?


3 gridiron games on the pitch this week.


And, they watered it.

[RicoSuave44]

Can someone please post an alternative link. I'm on a shitty comp that won't play ATDHE or the Neulion link above :(

[Dkolish3]

Can someone please post an alternative link. I'm on a shitty comp that won't play ATDHE or the Neulion link above :(

http://firstrowca.eu/watch/282225/2/watch-chicago-fire-vs-toronto-fc.html

[Jack]

We get beat to balls on set pieces way too fucking often.

[notthesun]

Can someone please post an alternative link. I'm on a shitty comp that won't play ATDHE or the Neulion link above :(

http://nlds43.cdnak.neulion.com/nlds/mls/chicagofire/as/live/chicagofire_hd_4500.m3u8

Paste that into VLC (go to Open Network Stream). Change the 4500 to a lower number (either 3200, 1600, 1200, 800) to reduce the quality if your connection can't handle it.

[Sweeper]

Chicago is not a very good team.......this is painful to watch.

[flamehawk]

Wow, why are we sooo bad at defending set pieces?

[Yohan]

getting killed on set piece

[Defoe]

this is just terrible, I can't watch this crap anymore. I'll leave my TV on so they get the viewership but this is a terrible product. Good night all I can't wait for next season (please don't fold)

[OgtheDim]

We get beat to balls on set pieces way too fucking often.

Yallop is a C grade version of Tony Pullis. Set pieces, defence, counter attack, pressure.

Two banks 4, very disciplined. I'd hate to support that but it is effective, in its own way.

[Jack]

Every time something starts to look remotely promising, we cough it up or the final ball is dogshit.

[QBall]

The good news Houston is leading Columbus 2-0 so we're keeping pace with 6th place. The bad news is if this score and that score holds we'll be in 8th by the end of the night.

[Jack]

Play until the whistle, Hagglund. Had that been in play, you'd have been caught with your ass hanging out waving your hand in the air.

And Oduro needs to stay up and play that ball.

[azorean]

this is just terrible, I can't watch this crap anymore. I'll leave my TV on so they get the viewership but this is a terrible product. Good night all I can't wait for next season (please don't fold)

I'm feeling the same, just getting angry now.

[Jack]

And again we let them get first touch on the ball from a corner.

[flamehawk]

I don't think we've gotten to the ball a single time when defending corners this match

[Nerepis]

Poor teams, bad pitch, bad announcers, there is not enough rum in the world.

[flamehawk]

Lmao, Bekker! We're playing away, our jersey is grey! not red!

[Jack]

Lmao, Bekker! We're playing away, our jersey is grey! not red!
Just fucking brutal.

[notthesun]

We won't win this game and we won't make the playoffs. I'm officially calling it, it's over.

[Yohan]

I don't know what Bekker did in 1st half. Like nothing

[Lumpy]

Well this new "attacking" style sure is working out great.

[Ivy]

I'm glad I wrote it down.

See below.

[OgtheDim]

Meh....defence is awful still but the midfield shows promise. Its a better idea then our 4-4-2. Really, we should be playing this game 4-3-3 cause Chicago's midfield is pretty bad; but I don't think guys like Crevalle and Jackson can adjust their thinking out of a 4-4-2.

[Lumpy]

I don't know what Bekker did in 1st half. Like nothing

He spotted a nuthatch, house finch and a robin to add to his Audubon birdwatching count.

[SKB]

This new coach Vanny is not the guy we are looking for. He has changed the corner and set piece defence to man on man and we are getting killed. On the attack we look lost. I agree we should have sacked Nelsen but only after the season ended unless they could bring in an experienced MLS coach. Teams in the EPL have made late season changes with success but they always brought in an experienced coach.

[Ivy]

this is just terrible, I can't watch this crap anymore. I'll leave my TV on so they get the viewership but this is a terrible product. Good night all I can't wait for next season (please don't fold)
Damn it Defoe, why did you leave us?!

[Jack]

Meh....defence is awful still but the midfield shows promise. Its a better idea then our 4-4-2. Really, we should be playing this game 4-3-3 cause Chicago's midfield is pretty bad; but I don't think guys like Crevalle and Jackson can adjust their thinking out of a 4-4-2.
Jackson has made a few solid defensive plays (as per usual), but has been positively awful in the attacking third. I'd like to see us run a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, too, but he should be taken off. Vanney doesn't seem to have the desire to play that way, despite having players who could do well in that formation.

[Sweeper]

How many times did Gilberto touch the ball in that half?

[notthesun]

Getting murdered on set pieces without Caldwell/Henry.

I honestly believe if Bez/Nelsen had signed another CB to start the season we would still be in playoff position and we would be able to weather this storm. Everything else being exactly equal, one more good CB would have us over the line.

It is collectively their single biggest mistake of this entire season. To expect to rely on a 33 year old injury prone CB and a 21 year old kid to lead this team to the postseason is lunacy. What a horrible failure.

[pdubs]

We could improve our lot if we limited the really idiotic mistakes. For example when Bradley can run through their entire midfield and jackson gets the ball and gives it away cheaply. Same thing with oduro just a terrible first touch. All that work and all we can show for it our terrible terrible first touches.

[Sweeper]

Jackson has made a few solid defensive plays (as per usual), but has been positively awful in the attacking third. I'd like to see us run a 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, too, but he should be taken off. Vanney doesn't seem to have the desire to play that way, despite having players who could do well in that formation.

I hate to say it but Jackson is actually one of our better players.

[Dkolish3]

What do you think was TFC's greatest mistake this season firing Nelson at that time, not keeping Defoe happy, or not getting a CB when Caldwell went down?

[OgtheDim]

Well this new "attacking" style sure is working out great.

Cause what we were doing before was so much better?

I don't think I've seen one hoof ball from Morrow or Hagglund. Makes a change from Henry firing up to nowhere.

I always thought we were going to lose this game.

The Bad



Crevalle is messing up the midfield balance by going to far forward. Needs to sit back more.

Bekker is, as usual, not enough of a physical presence.

Jackson can't pass.

Oduro can't get to the ball, and can't keep it.

Gilberto is being hacked.

They are double teaming Bradley and Bekker isn't helping him.


The Good


Bradley is getting forward

Morrow is better at CD in this game (couldn't probably play against target men forwards)

Gilberto is finding space

They are giving us the middle of the park.



This is a game crying out for DeRo for Bekker.

[daner90]

Feels like we haven't threatened the opposition's goals in 3 games.
Simply pathetic

[Canary10]

This new coach Vanny is not the guy we are looking for. He has changed the corner and set piece defence to man on man and we are getting killed. On the attack we look lost. I agree we should have sacked Nelsen but only after the season ended unless they could bring in an experienced MLS coach. Teams in the EPL have made late season changes with success but they always brought in an experienced coach.

Who has been successful with a late season coaching change in the EPL?

[pdubs]

What do you think was TFC's greatest mistake this season firing Nelson at that time, not keeping Defoe happy, or not getting a CB when Caldwell went down?

We needed another starting CB at the beginning of the season. This has crippled us all year.

[OgtheDim]

Vanney calling out his midfiled for not moving up and moving around. "Lots of people showing but nobody joining."

[Eastend]

This is just sad.

I am generally a positive person, or I like to think I am, but there is nothing good to take from that first half.

Just hurts my soul to see what's happened the last month or so.


Dom

[notthesun]

Vanney calling out his midfiled for not moving up and moving around. "Lots of people showing but nobody joining."

Talks a good game but can't produce the results he wants. I ascribe this to the short time frame and difficult situation more than his abilities, but I don't want him to stick around to be sure. We need a winning coach next year.

[Jack]

I hate to say it but Jackson is actually one of our better players.
Defending the ball, yes. His first touch and passing make me want to punch kittens.

[flamehawk]

Well, at least we're defending set pieces a little better.

[notthesun]

How is Defoe going to help this team? Can't believe we didn't sell him when we had the chance.

[Lumpy]

Cause what we were doing before was so much better?

Well we used to score once in a while. Gilberto would touch the ball the odd time. We would have the odd corner kick. Just little things like that.

[Dkolish3]

How is Defoe going to help this team? Can't believe we didn't sell him when we had the chance.

Defoe needs one chance, Gilberto 4, Everyone Else 10

[Auzzy]

He spotted a nuthatch, house finch and a robin to add to his Audubon birdwatching count.

And that was just in his hair.

[notthesun]

Defoe needs one chance, Gilberto 4, Everyone Else 10

He won't get it the way we're playing. Think back to the games where Defoe was stranded up top; that's what's going to happen when he returns.

[Slick]

DeRo warming up. Please take out Bekker, please.

And I hope this is the last game Morgan plays for TFC. Absolutely useless out there.

[Lumpy]

Time for Bekker's stroll in the park to end.

[Dkolish3]

He won't get it the way we're playing. Think back to the games where Defoe was stranded up top; that's what's going to happen when he returns.

I'll concede that point

[OgtheDim]

Another crap bit of defence gave them that PK.

[Eastend]

Is that our first save of a PK in 5 years?

[notthesun]

Wow that was a garbage penalty. Chicago throwing us a lifeline.

[Sweeper]

Bendik is the fucking man!!!

[Lumpy]

If I was Bendik I would go and punch my defence in the head. They stood there after he made the save on the penalty.

[flamehawk]

wow, Bendik. Redeems himself after conceding that penalty

[Yohan]

oh man. Bendik playing lights out

[flamehawk]

Gilberto running back all the way to left back to cover.....

[flamehawk]

Oduro and Crevelle off for Dero and Moore

I think that was Oduro's worst game for us.

[Dkolish3]

Bendik is the fucking man!!!

Oh you mean the poor man's Stefan Frei, or the refugee's Julio Cesar

[pdubs]

Gilberto running back all the way to left back to cover.....

He has that fighting attitude. And he wants to win. Some other players on this team should take notice

[Sweeper]

Oh you mean the poor man's Stefan Frei, or the refugee's Julio Cesar

Our issues have nothing to do with goal tending.

[flamehawk]

Finally a good opportunity. Moore whips it in to Gilberto who gets a foot on in but does not get it on goal.

[parma]

I can't watch this shit

[Dkolish3]

Our issues have nothing to do with goal tending.

I would argue that his terrible distribution has something to do with our terrible possession numbers but I get your point. There's bigger things

[Auzzy]

Jackson all alone in the front left corner a few minutes ago, about 4 Chicago players around him. A couple of TFC players standing near the middle of the front, hands on their hips, watching what Jackson is going to do next. Unfuckingbelievable.

[__wowza]

I would argue that his terrible distribution has something to do with our terrible possession numbers

at least he's not frei.

[Jack]

When Bradley consistently gets the ball while level with our central defenders, we are not going to get much benefit from his ability moving forward.

[Dkolish3]

at least he's not frei.

Frei's now the starting GK on the best team in the league I'm sure he's gotten better

[Yohan]

I don't know why Bekker is still on the pitch. DeRo should be playing in the middle, not Bekker

[Yohan]

Frei's now the starting GK on the best team in the league I'm sure he's gotten better
More like he plays for a better team. Frei has been just average

[OgtheDim]

Bekker not moving forward but passing back far too often.

[barticusz]

So glad Im not watching this filth. Had enough after last week and it sure sounds like the same thing is happening this week.

This is why you don't do a coaching change with 10 games to go. Ladies and gentlemen, idiocracy.

[Jack]

Bekker the Buildup Black Hole.

[notthesun]

Solo glad Im not watching this filth. Has enough after lady week and it sure sounds like the same thing I'd happening this week.

This is why you don't do a coaching change with 10 games to go. Ladies and gentlemen, idiocracy.

Wouldn't be any better under Nelsen. I know you disagree but I'll say it anyway.

[notthesun]

Hagglund is having a shocker today.

[Lumpy]

Wouldn't be any better under Nelsen. I know you disagree but I'll say it anyway.

It was

[OgtheDim]

Hagglund is having a shocker today.

He's gassed mentally. Has been since the beginning of August. Needs a 2 week break.

[notthesun]

It was

Nope.

[Jack]

Morgan must be getting a lot of on-field coaching from Morrow, as he seems a bit more solid today.

[OgtheDim]

It was


Nelsen does subs in the 77th minute.

Never would have saw DeRo. Would have been Lovitz for Jackson. Crevalle for Bloom. Maybe Bekker for Warner.

[Dkolish3]

Morgan must be getting a lot of on-field coaching from Morrow, as he seems a bit more solid today.

I dont know about that he was burned like 6 times in the first half

[Jack]

I dont know about that he was burned like 6 times in the first half
g:D happily for my blood pressure, I missed most of the first half.

[barticusz]

You won't admit it but this team played with some backbone under Nelsen... This has been atrocious.

[manitou22]

Wouldn't be any better under Nelsen. I know you disagree but I'll say it anyway.

Explain please.

[OgtheDim]

You don't admit it but this team player with some backbone under Nelsen... This had been atrocious.

Yeah, all that backbone against SKC and against NER and against Chicago and...and...and....

[Canary10]

We haven't scored a goal with Vanney. Or even looked like scoring. Don't know how anyone can claim with a straight face this is better than under Nelsen.

[notthesun]

You won't admit it but this team played with some backbone under Nelsen... This has been atrocious.

Which was positively shattered after the late goal to Chicago followed by perhaps the worst all time TFC performance against New England.

[Lumpy]

yesssssssssssss

[Nerepis]

DERO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[notthesun]

We haven't scored a goal with Vanney. Or even looked like scoring. Don't know how anyone can claim with a straight face this is better than under Nelsen.

Didn't say it was better, said it's no worse than it would've been.

Also we just scored. :)

[Dkolish3]

Dero!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also did anyone see that no congradulated him?

[OgtheDim]

We haven't scored a goal with Vanney. Or even looked like scoring. Don't know how anyone can claim with a straight face this is better than under Nelsen.

BOOM

[pdubs]

It was

No it wasn't. I'll repost specific facts about our tenure under Nelson since the start of July if you want me too. Quick summary we had 3 wins in 13 games and have up 24 points against eastern conference opposition. I'll repost it all if you need me too.

[Lumpy]

Assist Gilberto

[flamehawk]

My feed is a little slower than the board, so the surprised was ruined. So happy for Dero! We need three points guys, keep going.

[Jack]

Fucking yes, DeRo!

[Canary10]

Didn't say it was better, said it's no worse than it would've been.

Also we just scored. :)

Lol. Thank god

[OgtheDim]

No effin foul.

[daner90]

Thank fuck!!!

[Batman]

horseshit call

[flamehawk]

wTFFFFFF THAT WASA GOAL

[Voodooman]

Thx ref....unbelievable play by Gilberto

[Jack]

Bull-fucking-shit.

[morgank1986]

Unbelievable work by Gilberto. Shocking call.

[Jack]

Fuck off, ref. Fuck.

[Auzzy]

Fuck off Gantar. Oh wow.

[Rochdale]

This canadian ref is fcuked. Go back to Edmonton and stay there.

[daner90]

We got robbed!!!

[jloome]

This canadian ref is fcuked. Go back to Edmonton and stay there.

He's been atrocious.

[Jack]

Such a great play by Gilberto, too.

[Jack]

There. is. No. Way. That. Is. A. Foul.

[WestStandGeoff]

WTF with the security guard keeping Bradley away from the official?

Edit - not just keeping away, but physically pushing away?

[Batman]

just watched the replay. Gilberto's goal was one of the best ever... totally robbed by the ref.

[Voodooman]

Good words from DeRo.

[tfcfans]

A tie that felt like a win became a tie that felt like a loss.....

[OgtheDim]

Crap call.

BUT, we put ourselves by our poor passing and defence in a position to be reliant upon a call going the right way.

[molenshtain]

Nice to get a draw at this point. Hopefully we'll build on it next week.

At least the team showed some substance to go along with their endless running in the second half. maybe there's something there.

[flamehawk]

..... god ... was goign to be happy with getting back in the game .. but with that call ... fuck ... back to crying to sleep ....

Was Ganter the same guy that stole the game from Edmonton during the Voyageurs Cup?

[Jack]

Crap call.

BUT, we put ourselves by our poor passing and defence in a position to be reliant upon a call going the right way.

Indeed. That said, perhaps something to build on here tonight?

[notthesun]

In before voodoodaddy comes in and complains about Bradley getting in Gantar's face when he literally took the win from us. lol

[khso11]

In before voodoodaddy comes in and complains about Bradley getting in Gantar's face when he literally took the win from us. lol

Don't forget all of Caldwell's handball from before lol.

[Marc"2L"]

Indeed. That said, perhaps something to build on here tonight?

Im already grabbing more charges and shot,

fuck this ref, we'll keep fighting.

[OgtheDim]

Take that anger.

And then beat Chivas.

Pummel them into the earth.

None of this fooling around and waiting until the end crap.


DeRo starts instead of Bekker please.

[ManUtd4ever]

We didn't deserve 3 points based on the balance of play, but there's no way that Gilberto's goal should have been called a foul.

Overall, I liked the 4-2-3-1 that Vanney implemented today, but it was obvious throughout most of the game that the players were disjointed on the attack. I hope Vanney sticks with it, because I think it suits our roster, and the players need time to adjust.

I hope we will look back at DeRo's goal as the spark that turned our season around.

[Yohan]

That last 10 mins... confidence does wonders to players.

Robbed of 2 critical points (and this is why I'm in support of video replay on critical calls). But a win vs even shittier Chivas USA next week and we are back in the game...

[khso11]

I feel the fire is back (our confidence, not Chicago)

[OgtheDim]

Indeed. That said, perhaps something to build on here tonight?

Definintely.

We just tied the MLS version of Stoke City in there place in the last minute, and should have won. We are going to be playing a lot weaker defences over the next two matches. Gotta get better in so many ways.

But, dang that hurts.

[flamehawk]

That last 10 mins... confidence does wonders to players.

Robbed of 2 critical points (and this is why I'm in support of video replay on critical calls). But a win vs even shittier Chivas USA next week and we are back in the game...

You know what, fuck it. I recant my previous opposition to video replay ... that was needed here ... or well, fuck Ganter could've asked his assistants what they thought, but not even a consideration ... fuck

[Jack]

Definintely.

We just tied the MLS version of Stoke City in there place in the last minute, and should have won. We are going to be playing a lot weaker defences over the next two matches. Gotta get better in so many ways.

But, dang that hurts.
Yes it does. But getting that play in a game where we were shit for most of it is definitely a boost. We pushed back and showed there's still some balls around this team.

[flambe]

Nice to see that Bradley actually gives a shit. Seemed genuinely devastated about that no goal call.

[Eastend]

Who watches the video replay and decides if the call stands or not? The same guywho made the call or some @ home office?

Man that hurt.

[Jack]

I have to think that ref gets a new one torn by someone.

[Thomas]

There is no way in hell that goal should have been pulled back. That is a fucked up call for sure.

[notthesun]

I'm stunned Gilberto even fashioned that chance for himself. What a player. We need a goddamn team around him.

Soumare flops and Gantar rewards him for it, lmao. What did I say about Gilberto getting the worst treatment in the league from refs?

[pdubs]

Take that anger.

And then beat Chivas.

Pummel them into the earth.

None of this fooling around and waiting until the end crap.


DeRo starts instead of Bekker please.

this. and send some goons to take care of this ref. :)

[Richard]

I'm stunned Gilberto even fashioned that chance for himself. What a player. We need a goddamn team around him.

Soumare flops and Gantar rewards him for it, lmao. What did I say about Gilberto getting the worst treatment in the league from refs?

I'm trying to figure out what he did to piss off all the refs in MLS.

[Nerepis]

I have to think that ref gets a new one torn by someone.

If I'm the Bez, I'm on the phone to Vanney, "I'll write the cheque for the fine, make worth the money."

[Yohan]

lol. even Fire supporters think we got robbed

[Yohan]

I'm trying to figure out what he did to piss off all the refs in MLS.
once you get a rep among refs as a diver, you don't get many calls

[Bantamfan]

Don't forget all of Caldwell's handball from before lol.
who are you ? Where you from? Montreal?

[notthesun]

once you get a rep among refs as a diver, you don't get many calls

Sad because he doesn't even dive. Certainly not since he started scoring; he's learned you have to fight for everything with these refs. So that's what he does and they call him for it anyway. Feel bad for him.

[Richard]

once you get a rep among refs as a diver, you don't get many calls

Has Gilberto been fined for diving after the fact? I don't honestly remember but if the answer is no, then that's not a legitimate excuse for me.

[Pookie]

Bad call.

Happy for DeRo. Great post game comments from him too... Telling kids to never hang their heads and keep trying.

That said, they didn't play well enough to even earn the tie. If not for Bendik, it was over a long time ago.

I hope they make the playoffs. At the same time, as a Leaf fan I have this déjà vu feeling. That they will play well enough to make it interesting but either fall short or squeak in and lose the first playoff game.

In the end, the only thing that will be accomplished is getting a worse draft position.

[OgtheDim]

I'm trying to figure out what he did to piss off all the refs in MLS.

Gilberto throws himself around and deserves some of the fouls he gets.

BUT, both he and Defoe have been targetted by refs. I know they claim they don't prejudge, but all of the refs watch tape to prepare for games. They note things and then look for them. And, those notes are most likely shared. We saw this right from the beginning. No protection, which is what DP's usually get at first (and Bradley is getting protected). The refs think Gilberto falls down too easily (remember the push in the back on the break away in Dallas and the non-foul that should have been a red by Collin with SKC?). They also think he's overly aggressive.

And then a diving guy like Amerikwa gets penalty after penalty....

That having been said, Ganter should be demoted for awhile for that call. Sit on the sideline and 4th official the rest of the season.

[Oldtimer]

The team is having difficulty keeping formation as they adapt to totally different tactics and style of play.
The attack is very one-dimensional and static.
This may get better as time goes on.

[pdubs]

Retweeted by Armen Bedakian (https://twitter.com/ArmenBedakian)


https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/493839567305601024/A80kM85m_bigger.jpegNick Rimando ‏@NickRimando (https://twitter.com/NickRimando) 22m (https://twitter.com/NickRimando/status/510980605002014720)
IMO Toronto hard done there.

[notthesun]

Well hey, at least we can all agree if Nelsen hadn't been fired Vanney would be the new coach after this game. Nelsen would have been incarcerated for what he'd have done to Gantar after that call :lol:

[Yohan]

Has Gilberto been fined for diving after the fact? I don't honestly remember but if the answer is no, then that's not a legitimate excuse for me.
I'm not saying it's right, but once you're pegged as a diver, the ref doesn't give you any benefit of a doubt

[notthesun]

Gilberto's face pretty much sums it up

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxdi_McCIAEJnH0.jpg

[Burning Red]

We were awful for 90% of that game, yes. But jesus christ I haven't seen a screw job like that in years. We deserved that win, not based on the way we played for most of the match but because the ref made one of the most incompetent and mind blowing calls I have ever seen in MLS. We deserved to win because that was a goal.

There is no way that Bez or TFC management should take this lying down. Gantar and the MLS need to be called out on that one. This result should be appealed and Gantar should be suspended.

Why should any fans put up with this either? The team are reason enough to draw our frustration but they are still our club and deserve our voice of protest on this.

Gantar's need to be helped accountable for his incompetency.

[Ivy]

once you get a rep among refs as a diver, you don't get many calls
I don't remember Gilberto ever diving. Also, he wasn't looking for a foul on that call. Both the Chicago defender and the goalie knew it was a goal - until it got called back.

[pdubs]

I saw a tweet. "We should get allocation money for that" LOL.

Whole dump truck full Garber!

[Suds]

Didn't catch all the game but from what I did watch and heard from others 3 pts would have been generous out of tonight's performance.

As for that call, we're used to some dodgy calls in MLS but that was atrocious. I'm not hanging our problems of refereeing. But MLS really needs to address the level of officiating. It's a real issue league wide for all teams. If it's higher wages to draw more full-time pros them so be it. But it can't keep on with the level it is at.

[flamehawk]

I'm not saying it's right, but once you're pegged as a diver, the ref doesn't give you any benefit of a doubt

I have never seen Gilberto dive ...

[SoccMan2]

I know they waited until the end to wake up from the dead but they were robbed, that was a goal, however, the only thing I'm thinking is that the ref thought he saw Gilberto push the Chicago defender so he could get to the ball and that's why he called the goal back. Soccer needs video replay what happened at the end of the game is an example of why video replay is needed, give each team 2 or 3 opportunities a game when teams can have calls reviewed, I don't care if it slows the flow of the game not when it can effect the result in a game, bring it on it's time is long overdue!

[notthesun]

Is MLS really not going to add that play to the highlights from the game? Sheesh.

[Yohan]

I have never seen Gilberto dive ...
earlier TFC games, I saw him go down easy. The calls he probably got in Brazil, he didn't get in MLS. He adjusted, but too late for him from getting a label