Match Day 14 - The Toronto Chinese Archway Game - LAG@TFC Sat June 18th

[OgtheDim]

https://www.thestar.com/content/dam/thestar/news/gta/2012/06/18/hume_toronto_parking_lot_wins_international_award/arch_at_parkinglot.jpeg.size.custom.crop.1086x734. jpg

Not sure Hamilton starts actually but that would be fun to watch

Have at It People

[OgtheDim]

For the confused


Consult a map

[mistercorporate]

Still confused, what does an archway in Chinatown East have to do with an LA Galaxy game?

[OgtheDim]

Look up the archway on a map

[mistercorporate]

Ahh i see...Hamilton vs Gerrard, clever!

[ensco]

I'm taking a broad view (streetcar) of (to) this one.

[ChrisFizik]

Crafty one, Og! Love it

[OgtheDim]

It won't happen but if I was in TFC communications, I'd take Hamilton to that corner and be interviewed about what it means to play for TFC.

[Fort York Redcoat]

Great job keeping things classy, Og.

I would've made some allusion to the "Hooker" Harvey's on Gerrard. Glad I have a better site to remind me of that Street now.

[PopePouri]

Want to see this...


-----------Seba--------------Jayhams------
---------------------Oso---------------------
----------Will---------------------Marky-----
-------------------Cheyrou------------------
--Morrow---Moor--------Perquis---Beata--
---------------------Irwin--------------------

Thought Jordan did well enough last game for another start.

[Oldtimer]

Want to see this...


-----------Seba--------------Jayhams------
---------------------Oso---------------------
----------Will---------------------Marky-----
-------------------Cheyrou------------------
--Morrow---Moor--------Perquis---Beata--
---------------------Irwin--------------------

Thought Jordan did well enough last game for another start.

I'd like that except have Jordan beside Giovinco to start.

[OgtheDim]

LAG like to get their FB's forward. They are going to bomb down our wings all night. I'd rather see Endoh on the outside if he's available. And I'm thinking Baboulli starts instead of Hamilton.

[PopePouri]

I'd like that except have Jordan beside Giovinco to start.

Yea, that's what I want as well. What's impressed me since the last time I saw him is his hold play has improved tremendously. Even if he's not the finished product, he'll still impact the game and improve the team.

[Ultra & Proud]

Yea, that's what I want as well. What's impressed me since the last time I saw him is his hold play has improved tremendously. Even if he's not the finished product, he'll still impact the game and improve the team.
Still find him too inconsistent. He is invisible for long stretches and makes some dodgy decisions. He can possibly poach a goal here or there but I'd take a more positive to the offense Babouli over him right now. Mo has really been coming on of late and with his decent run in the past 5 matches I don't think he deserves to sit.

[jloome]

Still find him too inconsistent. He is invisible for long stretches and makes some dodgy decisions. He can possibly poach a goal here or there but I'd take a more positive to the offense Babouli over him right now. Mo has really been coming on of late and with his decent run in the past 5 matches I don't think he deserves to sit.

Suddenly, hungry young players are presenting us with nice problems. Have I stepped into an alternate dimension where TFC is.... a proper football club?!?

[Canary10]

Look up the archway on a map

Very subtle. I live just up the street from that arch, and it took me a while to figure out that connection.

[ag futbol]

Yea, that's what I want as well. What's impressed me since the last time I saw him is his hold play has improved tremendously. Even if he's not the finished product, he'll still impact the game and improve the team.
Game 1 to game 2 there was a huge improvement in his play away from the front of the net. He went from looking like basic holdup play was going to be difficult to looking very comfortable very quickly.

[notthesun]

I'm curious to see if we stick to the 4-2-3-1 for this, or if they go back to a 2 striker formation. If the former, Giovinco would probably have to play LAM.

I'm partial to Hamilton starting up top. We need a forward that can come down with the occasional long ball, at the very least contest it. A Giovinco-Babouli tandem up top means we have no outlet when under pressure.

[Oldtimer]

Suddenly, hungry young players are presenting us with nice problems. Have I stepped into an alternate dimension where TFC is.... a proper football club?!?

Pretty much... and it ONLY took a decade.

[portu]

Babouli and Hamilton aren't the same kind of players and Jordan is more of a Jozy replacement then Mo will ever be. Play Jordan. If you need a Seba replacement or someone on the wing then bring Mo in, though I also like what Lovitz has shown on the wing.

[OgtheDim]

LAG's away form is horrid.


They will be playing in the US Open Cup on Tuesday but if a single starter is even on the bench, I'd be surprised - they are playing the equivalent of a 5th division team, one that was suspended from league play for a brawl.

[bigredone]

With or with without the General, our Atomic Ant is vulnerable to the Destroyer.

[shwade]

They should start JHamilton, his hold up play should benefit Gio.

[Ruffian]

They should start JHamilton, his hold up play should benefit Gio.

He has also shown that he can make good passes inside the box to set up goal scoring chances.

[MightyDM]

Morgan and lovitz have earned a shot too. I don't think Morrow is a given. And there are other alternatives. Morgan could play left mid and Will J right, in the above formation, for example.

[ronzilla]

Hamilton should start up top with Gio.

[PopePouri]

Morgan and lovitz have earned a shot too. I don't think Morrow is a given. And there are other alternatives. Morgan could play left mid and Will J right, in the above formation, for example.

Morgan can't play in the middle. He has a Zardes-like first touch.

[MightyDM]

Call it wing if you like. But if we are playing a 4-2-3-1 he can be on the left of the "3", and has played there effectively at times. I call that left mid so likely my terminology confused, I assume you mean he cannot be the left in the "2"

[OgtheDim]

I hope and expect a moment of silence before the game. Apparently Orlando will be stopping their game at some point on Saturday.

[OgtheDim]

I remember when a visit by LAG would be the talking point of TFC that week... :)

*******

TTC closure - St. Clair West to Downsview (i.e. No Yorkdale park and fly)

[OgtheDim]

Soooooooooo.....if the US loses tonight, Bradley on the subs bench?

[Makelevi]

Ahh i see...Hamilton vs Gerrard, clever!

This is beautiful.

[OgtheDim]

FWIW

http://toronto-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/elfinderimages/2016-StartingXI-061816.png

[mistercorporate]

Sometimes i wonder if these official starting lineups are just to throw off the competition, theyre rarely accurate nowadays.

[Ultra & Proud]

Soooooooooo.....if the US loses tonight, Bradley on the subs bench?

They lose tonight and he'll force his way into the starting XI.

No doubt. Besides, not a fan of seeing Chapman in there.

[C.Ronaldo]

FWIW

http://toronto-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/elfinderimages/2016-StartingXI-061816.png

thats some serious pace and hustle up front

[Red CB Toronto]

Brought a smile to my face tonight with The General wearing this armband in Seattle for the US's Copa America quarter-final tonight. Would be great to see him wear it for his first game back with the Reds too.

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13432409_10206453692004305_1841636685151117467_n.j pg?oh=3541303ff2d45831f79b78ba5a9a0490&oe=57C0DBE5

[MightyDM]

FWIW

http://toronto-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/elfinderimages/2016-StartingXI-061816.png


I really like this. The only change I'd make is to give Morgan a role. He earned it versus Montreal.

[mistercorporate]

Cheyrou for Johnson, Johnson for Chapman.

[Red CB Toronto]

General Bradley onward to the Copa semi-finals, so no chance for Saturday.

[SirBobSaget]

Has the Bacardi starting 11 ever get the lineup right? No idea why it keeps being posted its garbage. Cheyrou will for sure be anchoring the midfield.

[notthesun]

Has the Bacardi starting 11 ever get the lineup right? No idea why it keeps being posted its garbage. Cheyrou will for sure be anchoring the midfield.

It's a social media engagement tool to generate discussion about the team, that's all (and mission accomplished).

[reggie]

General Bradley onward to the Copa semi-finals, so no chance for Saturday.
likely to miss 3 maybe 4 more games,we really got our DPs money worth so far:facepalm:

[OgtheDim]

likely to miss 3 maybe 4 more games,we really got our DPs money worth so far:facepalm:

2 games - they are not beating Argentina

[Derko]

likely to miss 3 maybe 4 more games,we really got our DPs money worth so far:facepalm:

Like a broken record Reggie, like a broken record

[Fort York Redcoat]

likely to miss 3 maybe 4 more games,we really got our DPs money worth so far:facepalm:

Like it was going to be a sellout this weekend for OUR DPs anyway...:frown2:

[spe18]

2 games - they are not beating Argentina

3 games - that is unless if Klinsmann releases Bradley from playing in the third place match (and of course, that assumes the Americans lose to Argentina in the semis).

[Ultra & Proud]

likely to miss 3 maybe 4 more games,we really got our DPs money worth so far:facepalm:
I agree. We need to go back to our old way of signing DPs; go for overpaid Canadians (JDG) who won't miss much time because Canada can't advance in any tournaments or guys like Mista & Hasli, with whom we will get full value for in games played. Who cares about production? At least they'll play almost every game, right? That's what matters.

[Fort York Redcoat]

I agree. We need to go back to our old way of signing DPs; go for overpaid Canadians (JDG) who won't miss much time because Canada can't advance in any tournaments or guys like Mista & Hasli, with whom we will get full value for in games played. Who cares about production? At least they'll play almost every game, right? That's what matters.

Well then. I think the sarcasm meter just broke but agreed.

When we look at the most successful teams in the league over time they didn't just keep over paying for talent on DPs but found a balance. Sure it's more difficult but every team will have to do it some time. I hope when the time comes we can too. Till then - MAke it RAIN! g:D

[PopePouri]

It's not like we're the only ones affected by missing DPs. There's two goddamn tournaments going on at the same time and MLS wants to play games in that window.

[OgtheDim]

I can see people being upset at Altidore cause of his injuries.

But people upset at Micheal Bradley, the captain of the USMNT, who's been off the charts with his passing stats and the best DM in the league this season, that's freaking nuts.


*********


Anyhooo




Weather at game time


25 feeling like 28 with a light for the lake 18km SW wind


Gerrard will feel like he's playing in LA. :)


********


IIRC, we havn't beaten the LAG in a LOONG time. Time to make a freaking statement. Their defence is good but their offence is depleted. And I'd put our midfield up against theirs even without Bradley.

Most importantly, we've got a rested Seba.

3-1 for the good guys



***********


Hmmm....must remember to not post when I've had a Cold Brew from Starbucks..................yippee on the Caffeine. :pbjtime::willy_nilly:

[Pint]

Speaking of Altidore, have we gotten any updates on him? i know it was 6-8 weeks but we are into week 5 and no updates.

[Ultra & Proud]

Speaking of Altidore, have we gotten any updates on him? i know it was 6-8 weeks but we are into week 5 and no updates.
The last I heard some doctor from California figured out what the problem was that makes him prone to hamstring problems then nothing else. My guess is that he'll be back in mid July.

This came up on Twitter today:
Vanney: "Jozy is progressing. He's on the right time frame." #TFCLive (https://twitter.com/hashtag/TFCLive?src=hash)

[OgtheDim]

So they are now selling patio standing for $20. Only do that after a sell out, they say.

Over under on the % of Liverpool shirts in their set at 20.

[Joe Kool]

So they are now selling patio standing for $20. Only do that after a sell out, they say.

Over under on the % of Liverpool shirts in their set at 20.

20% is high I think. Would have to say under. I barely remember Gerrard is even in the league most days myself. I have a jersey too but won't be wearing it. TFC all the way.

[OgtheDim]

GAME DAY :scarf:

[OTDude82]

So is wearing a Euro team jersey offside today?

[Pint]

Yes!

[ronzilla]

This break felt like a year long. Need a win tonight !!

[OgtheDim]

So is wearing a Euro team jersey offside today?

If your thinking England, don't.

If you are thinking Iceland, today would be the better then Tuesday.

[OTDude82]

If your thinking England, don't.

If you are thinking Iceland, today would be the better then Tuesday.

Thinking from the place I used to live - Germany You know in honour of Frings. I'm also sitting with a quite a few Italians around me - so they can have their usual fun.
(So on second thought , maybe I'll just wear my TFC Jersey - although I do also have one of those really gawdy 1990 West Germany jerseys) Decisions..... decisions

[Alonso]

Thinking from the place I used to live - Germany You know in honour of Frings. I'm also sitting with a quite a few Italians around me - so they can have their usual fun.
(So on second thought , maybe I'll just wear my TFC Jersey - although I do also have one of those really gawdy 1990 West Germany jerseys) Decisions..... decisions


West Germany for sure!

Retro trumps all.

[OgtheDim]

Well at least it doesn't look like the LAG whites.....

[Fort York Redcoat]

So is wearing a Euro team jersey offside today?

Only if you want to look like a footy fan that hasn't tuned into to TFC yet...

Up to you. Shrug.

[mistercorporate]

I dont care what people wear as long as they show up. Whatever makes them happy, im happy when theres more fans in the seats that add to the atmosphere and fun. Were consistently starting to sellout this stadium for most games and in a couple years there will be voices asking for further expansion, i cant wait!

[bigredone]

Only if you want to look like a footy fan that hasn't tuned into to TFC yet...

Up to you. Shrug.

http://www.footyfair.com/2014/07/10-signs-you-are-world-cup-hipster.html

Still applicable?

[OgtheDim]

Rumour Mill

https://twitter.com/WheelerTSN/status/744252964982894592

[OgtheDim]

And tweet found under that points to an LA Times article saying Gerrard is injured with a hamstring issue.

Oh there are going to be soooooo many slightly different red shirts disappointed.

[ronzilla]

Who the fuck cares what other people are wearing. It's not like people here can have a say on what other people can wear. I pay to watch the game, not to sit and stare at the stands.

[OTDude82]

Only if you want to look like a footy fan that hasn't tuned into to TFC yet...

Up to you. Shrug.


TFC Shirt and hat it is. Just wore the Germany shirt out running errands. Its really hot! Chinese plastic I guess.

[Ivy]

Who the fuck cares what other people are wearing. It's not like people here can have a say on what other people can wear. I pay to watch the game, not to sit and stare at the stands.
hostility! I'm assuming you're a big Stevie G fan?

[ronzilla]

hostility! I'm assuming you're a big Stevie G fan?

Yes...just for you, I'm a steven gerrard fan. :facepalm:

[OgtheDim]

All I'm going to say about that is I'm in the pregame patio area and I have seen way more Liverpool than TFC shirts.

I'm just here for the flag.

[DOMIN8R]

I don't understand our lineup.

[portu]

Can't wait to see Hamilton start up top today

[ronzilla]

https://twitter.com/LAGalaxyInsider/status/744298622767013888


https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/744307439105900545

[Graeme]

Saving Perquis for Tuesday?

[habstfc]

Where's Johnson?

[__wowza]

has gio scored off of a free kick this season?

[portu]

Seba's been so poor off free kicks this season

[buddies]

Not seeing any Argo lines anyway ... looks like they did good. Big test will be when the turnover time is a bit tighter but so far so good :)

[__wowza]

Not seeing any Argo lines anyway ... looks like they did good. Big test will be when the turnover time is a bit tighter but so far so good :)

pitch looks nice too.
could it be that we, Toronto sports, fans are overreacted about something?

[ag futbol]

Some good holdup play from Hamilton so far. Would be nice if we could get our target men more involved.

[__wowza]

as much as I love seba he's got that dero "no one else can do it so I'll just do it myself" deal going on right now.

altidore works because hes seen as a threat, so he was always covered, which opens up space. gio is constantly being double and triple teamed but tries to run it through anyways.

[__wowza]

if LA could link up a single cross we'd be in trouble. also, props to whoever made the TFC marlboro two stick.

[__wowza]

deadly corner from endoh.
didn't know he could take em.

[portu]

as much as I love seba he's got that dero "no one else can do it so I'll just do it myself" deal going on right now.

altidore works because hes seen as a threat, so he was always covered, which opens up space. gio is constantly being double and triple teamed but tries to run it through anyways.
Have to agree with that, he's been like that since the Portland game imo

[Alonso]

pitch looks nice too.
could it be that we, Toronto sports, fans are overreacted about something?


If we didn't "over react", I suspect they wouldn't have been as diligent as they appear to have been so far.

I don't think demanding a pristine pitch at all times is an over reaction considering what we've been through with TFC ownership since the franchise's inception.

[Alonso]

Guys are looking sloppy with their passes... even Giovinco.

[portu]

Maybe I've been watching too much Euro and Copa but were we really this bad before the break?

[Alonso]

Both teams look like shiite at the moment.

Copa and Euro's aside... I've seen both these teams play way better.

[Alonso]

Van Damme is huge. He makes JHam look like a troll.

[Alonso]

Zavaleta saved by a cool and collected Morrow right there.

[ag futbol]

Both teams look pretty sluggish. Nothing half really.

Bring on Babouli at 60.

[Alonso]

Maybe it's the heat... but meh.

Meh to this game so far.

[Kaz]

I hate watching this team play these days.. all the offensive fire has been removed. The best game we have seen offensive in the last 2 months has been with the youngsters at home vs Montreal in the CC

It again looks like a win by a goal or tie strategy

[QBall]

Someone please light a fire under both teams' asses for the second half please. The first half looked like a training match.

[portu]

Go back to the 4-2-3-1

Seba on the left, Endoh on the right and Oso in the middle

[Alonso]

Jordan: "I have to start winning my physical battles with Van Damme"

Reporter: "Yeah he's a big boy isn't he?"

[ronzilla]

Was expecting a better fight from LA. Both teams looking rusty and should see a better second half.

Cheyrou is looking good, Delgado not.

[ronzilla]

Why is Johnson on the bench?

[Alonso]

Alright. Some one give a fuck already.

Too many pies on the break?

[69Chevy396]

Why is Johnson on the bench?
No idea. Endoh has to go. He loses possesion every time he touches the ball. He is not ready.

[Alonso]

There is absolutely no foul there! Beitashour was robbed.

[portu]

Seba's taken two SHOTS from corners now today

[Alonso]

Giovinco's touch is sublime!

[ag futbol]

I guess this ref hasn't reached the section of the handbook yet that deals with persistent infringement.

[Alonso]

Johnson will fire up this team!

Good sub.

Babouli can't hurt either

[__wowza]

haven't seen a TV game at BMO in awhile, is smoke normally this bad for reaching the field?

[Alonso]

Fucking De Jong totally kicked out Giovincos leg.

[Alonso]

haven't seen a TV game at BMO in awhile, is smoke normally this bad for reaching the field?


Not usually this bad

[__wowza]

looked offside, but they honestly could've had that if the defender didn't throw his arm up and stop dead in his tracks.

[Alonso]

Fuck yeah!!!!!

[ronzilla]

Moor is awesome with the headers. What a goal !!

[__wowza]

im glad the boys get a chance to bounce after having to sit through this. I think I've been spoiled by the euros and copa.

[Alonso]

TFC looking for blood now.

Looking like they want to fight now.

[__wowza]

Looking like they want to fight now.

they haven't done a whole lot to earn this win so they better fight tooth and nail to keep it.

[Alonso]

Giovinco takes a ball down like no one else in this league.

His touch is unbelievable.

[ronzilla]

This referee is shit

[Alonso]

they haven't done a whole lot to earn this win so they better fight tooth and nail to keep it.


Yeah man. Looks like the strategy is defense first now....

And they seem interested in the game finally.

[ag futbol]

Not a great game, but I'll take it.

I think we've gotten to the point where we look to giovinco too much. Guys look scarred to take chances themselves rather than defer.

[Kaz]

A game where your best offense is coming from your defensive players.... .... there is something wrong.

Happy for the 3 points.. hate the way we got it.

[Oldtimer]

Van Damme was huge for LA, breaking up TFC plays all game, making it hard to break through. They almost got a point on the road.

Nice to have Moor score one, a masterclass of clinical finishing there.

[portu]

Really unimpressed tonight but I'll take the points

[Alonso]

Van Damme was huge for LA, breaking up TFC plays all game, making it hard to break through. They almost got a point on the road.

Nice to have Moor score one, a masterclass of clinical finishing there.


Player of the match imo.

Edit: (I meant Van Damme was player of the match) who is this guy? first time seeing him play and he's like a wet shirt on the TFC offence.

[portu]

Player of the match imo.
thought lleget was the best player today

[Alonso]

thought lleget was the best player today


That 8 yard miss with the left foot would have sealed the game for them I think.

[Onyx]

Really unimpressed tonight but I'll take the points

agree to many 1 pointers this season at home might cost us a playoff date. We need 3s like tonight.

[mistercorporate]

TFC playing Chelsea Mourinho style, ugly defensive soccer but it works!

[PopePouri]

thought lleget was the best player today

Cheyrou for me.

[Alonso]

Mexico (Mom's place of birth) vs Chile (Dad's place of birth) and me wishing Canada was in it.... NEXT!

[MightyDM]

Thoughts:

Gio needs to move the ball. LA was triple teaming him most of the game leaving all sorts of space for the pass. Plus if he starts moving it, they'll have to back off a bit, giving him space.

why was Endoh in the middle and Oso wide? Makes no sense, their best positions are precisely the opposite

Irwin played very well

Morrow couldn't cross the ball. Something has been up with him this year, he isn't the same.

Hamilton did reasonably well. Two or three very nice touches early on, made some good runs off the ball.

Moor was very good.

Hagglund good when he came on.

Cheyrou excellent.

Lleget M.O.M for us!

[paul-collins]

I'm just here for the flag.
I thought there were to be 10k flags given out. No way there were that many people there by the time I got in and no evidence at any of the north entrances that the flags were being given out (empty boxes, strewn plastic, anything). Did you get your flag?

[burlington Red]

great atmosphere tonight.
Game was exciting, quality wasn't great though. Delgado doesn't give us much, Morrow good defensively and gets into good attacking positions but his crossing is poor. Thought De Jong was excellent for LA. Good to get the win but can bo better.

[Thomas]

Absolutely. Benoit is not a flashy player. It would have been a different result if he was not on the field.



Cheyrou for me.

[ManUtd4ever]

Not the most inspiring effort at home, but missing 2 of our 3 DPs against LA, 3 points and a clean sheet is always welcome.

[Smokecell]

Definitely not the pretties game but we came away with what matters.

LA's gameplay was fairly obvious - pepper crosses into the box all game for Gordon and make TFC deal with the aerial threat. Kudos to Zabaleta and Moor for dealing with what was thrown their way and getting the clean sheet.

If there's a positive to take away it has got to be that TFC are finding ways to win without Gio scoring. Pretty wins count just as much as the ugly ones so performance aside I'm overall happy with the result.

[Auzzy]

Yes Giovinco hasn't scored a single goal off a free kick this season. That's quite shocking compared with last year.

Morrow's crosses were bad today, but so were most of the crosses by various TFC players. So often I would see a few of our guys open in the box, but the crosses would go nowhere near them.

Yes Van Damme was good, but he really should have seen a yellow at least once. That would have made him less aggressive & less effective.

Nothing on the highlights of course, but I felt there were a few blatant fouls not called. I don't know if I can find them on MLS Live. I feel Toledo used to call too many fouls a few years ago, and especially hand out too many cards. Now I think he's gone too far in the opposite direction.

[James17930]

Sorry to ask this because I'm sure it's already been talked about somewhere, but I've been ridiculously busy and have only had time to check in on TFC-land now:

How was the grass? Any issues/complaints from anywhere?

My assumption is that it was totally fine, but I'm curious if anyone heard anything.

[DOMIN8R]

Another clean sheet!
I loved our defensive shape. We are tough to break down.
The first 50 minutes were hard to watch. We turned the ball over cheaply over and over again.
Not a great game for the rookies and younger players today.
LA's back line had a good showing. Except for that one goal :D
I was a little confused about our line up. But then I remembered we need to keep some powder dry for Tuesday's....
21 June 2016: Toronto FC : Vancouver Whitecaps FC - First leg
I bold this, because so many, in the stands, told me that they didn't know about the game on Tuesday.
Thrilled that I saw no CFL remnants. Surprised even. Nice job MLSE.

[Eastend]

Yes Giovinco hasn't scored a single goal off a free kick this season. That's quite shocking compared with last year.

Morrow's crosses were bad today, but so were most of the crosses by various TFC players. So often I would see a few of our guys open in the box, but the crosses would go nowhere near them.

Yes Van Damme was good, but he really should have seen a yellow at least once. That would have made him less aggressive & less effective.

Nothing on the highlights of course, but I felt there were a few blatant fouls not called. I don't know if I can find them on MLS Live. I feel Toledo used to call too many fouls a few years ago, and especially hand out too many cards. Now I think he's gone too far in the opposite direction.

The ref was Salazar.

[shwade]

Cheyrou is still a stud.
But Seba, pass bro...Jay Hamilton is impressing so far.

[Areathrasher]

Endoh impressed me last night. He made quite a few quick first time passes instead of taking a touch and slowing things down. A few went wayward but the fact that he was trying to keep the game moving quickly and attempting to play incisively impressed me, to my eye he links very well with Cheyrou. Made some smart runs into space that weren't noticed, that seems to be a reoccurring theme.

[notthesun]

Didn't get a chance to watch, but happy to just get the win. Did the shape look like a 4-2-3-1 or did we have 2 strikers?

Really great to have Cheyrou back, and I'm so glad Hamilton got the start. We need someone that can hold up the ball when Altidore is out.

[paul-collins]

Sorry to ask this because I'm sure it's already been talked about somewhere, but I've been ridiculously busy and have only had time to check in on TFC-land now:

How was the grass? Any issues/complaints from anywhere?

My assumption is that it was totally fine, but I'm curious if anyone heard anything.
There were muddy tire tracks in the northeast corner, about golf cart width. Not sure if that is CFL related... I've never seen that before so I assume it wasn't done by the grounds crew.

No paint or wear and tear centrally.

[OgtheDim]

I thought there were to be 10k flags given out. No way there were that many people there by the time I got in and no evidence at any of the north entrances that the flags were being given out (empty boxes, strewn plastic, anything). Did you get your flag?

Yes I got my flag at the north but the north patio was packed right back to the Food building steps 20 minutes prior to opening. They probably ran out within 5 minutes up there.

Couldn't see the tire tracks from the TV replay. Was it on the pitch itself or behind the end line?

[Fort York Redcoat]

I dont care what people wear as long as they show up. Whatever makes them happy, im happy when theres more fans in the seats that add to the atmosphere and fun. Were consistently starting to sellout this stadium for most games and in a couple years there will be voices asking for further expansion, i cant wait!

I, too, welcome anyone at the game. If all they have is a soccer jersey they want to wear and they sing, clap for our team - plus. Maybe some will wear tfc red to the match in time.


Who the fuck cares what other people are wearing. It's not like people here can have a say on what other people can wear. I pay to watch the game, not to sit and stare at the stands.

lol who cares? You clearly. And the user asked if you care to check.

I care because I want to see more support for our team. That's first. If people are their supporting the sport that's a plus. too.

[Cashcleaner]

I can't really get too upset by our overall performance- we got the three points against a typically difficult and that's the main thing here. Not all that happy with the officiating, but I feel like it could have gone a lot worse. Another clean sheet for Irwin and a goal for Moor? I'll take it. Endoh looked pretty good. Gio played with a lot of hustle despite being almost crippled a bunch of times by some asshole LA defenders.

Either way, I'll take it. A win's a win! On to Tuesday night!

[Fort York Redcoat]

Definitely not the pretties game but we came away with what matters.

LA's gameplay was fairly obvious - pepper crosses into the box all game for Gordon and make TFC deal with the aerial threat. Kudos to Zabaleta and Moor for dealing with what was thrown their way and getting the clean sheet.

If there's a positive to take away it has got to be that TFC are finding ways to win without Gio scoring. Pretty wins count just as much as the ugly ones so performance aside I'm overall happy with the result.

Got antsy when I saw Gordons name on the roster sheet. Glad he was denied.

[OgtheDim]

I always enjoy watching big bangers go up against our defence. I thought Moor did quite well, actually winning headers against Gordon. But, gosh, LAG are full of big stocky types.

Anyways, how can you not like these two dads

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ClULrZ-VAAIxomx.jpg

[paul-collins]

What's with Osorio's ankle socks?

[paul-collins]

Couldn't see the tire tracks from the TV replay. Was it on the pitch itself or behind the end line?
Pitch itself, crossing the end line (running north-south). Very close to the corner flag. Maybe 5 metres long, which suggests (as I posted in the Argos thread) a bottleneck with carts being forced into single file or a specific route.

2nd edit: grounds crew twitter account says LAG players did this to the pitch with their pregame sprinting.

Edited to add the pic:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ClVVT90WgAA3Wsj.jpg

[Alonso]

I didn't realise until this game how big LA is.

They are stacked with huge players... probably the biggest team in the league.

I don't understand how LA get away with the depth that they have.

Their players must be being paid under the table.

They can't possibly be cap compliant other wise.

EDIT: Just looked it up. Van Damme makes $500,000 a year. With all the super stars that they have how can they sneak in a player like this? They pay 11 players ~ $200,000 or more but the math doesn't seem to add up.

Ashley Cole
Robbie Keane (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Keane)
Steven Gerrard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Gerrard)
Alan Gordon (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Gordon_(soccer))
Giovani dos Santos (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovani_dos_Santos)
Gyasi Zardes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyasi_Zardes)
Robbie Rogers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Rogers)
Sebastian Lletget (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebastian_Lletget)
Mike Magee (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Magee_(soccer))
Jeff Larentowicz (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Larentowicz)
Nigel de Jong (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigel_de_Jong)
Jelle Van Damme (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jelle_Van_Damme)

How do they fit this into the MLS salary cap? Something is awry.




I always enjoy watching big bangers go up against our defence. I thought Moor did quite well, actually winning headers against Gordon. But, gosh, LAG are full of big stocky types.

Anyways, how can you not like these two dads

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ClULrZ-VAAIxomx.jpg

[Richard]

I didn't realise until this game how big LA is.

They are stacked with huge players... probably the biggest team in the league.

I don't understand how LA get away with the depth that they have.

Their players must be being paid under the table.

They can't possibly be cap compliant other wise.

You cant genuinely be surprised? Its LA, the league bends over backwards for them at any opportunity for them to keep or get star players.

[Fort York Redcoat]

You cant genuinely be surprised? Its LA, the league bends over backwards for them at any opportunity for them to keep or get star players.

Sure for now but with a team in real NY and LAFC entering the league soon it could force the league to think on how to dispense the favouritism.

[Areathrasher]

Oh great. More lazy LA favoritism analysis. It couldn't be that they are just smarter than everyone else and use their location and wealth to their advantage. Nope, not that. Favoritism.

[Alonso]

Oh great. More lazy LA favoritism analysis. It couldn't be that they are just smarter than everyone else and use their location and wealth to their advantage. Nope, not that. Favoritism.


You have a point.

These players must really love being in LA to take the salaries that they are being given.

But man, I find it hard to believe.

The obvious answer is that they are being paid under the table with a wink wink ;

[Pint]

LA was able to sell players and take allocation $$ for it which they could be using to buy guys down. De Jongs contract is interesting in the way it is structured. Zardes may also still be a HGP contract so very little cap hit

[Alonso]

Haven't done the research yet... but LA have at least 6 players that formerly played in the EPL.

What!?!

They basically have 6 DP's compared to the rest of the league.

[Areathrasher]

You have a point.

These players must really love being in LA to take the salaries that they are being given.

But man, I find it hard to believe.

The obvious answer is that they are being paid under the table with a wink wink ;

A lot of their depth is on similar money to ours. Our high paid back line matches up quite closely to theirs too.

Cole and DeJong also had payoffs from their former clubs which allowed them to take reduced pay in LA. They sold Juninhio and Gonzalez in the offseason which helped add some allocation $$$ and cap/budget flexibility.

[Alonso]

What's with Osorio's ankle socks?


He scored his first two goals this season with them on in the Voyageurs Cup so is rocking them until further notice.

Retro trumps all

[Alonso]

A lot of their depth is on similar money to ours. Our high paid back line matches up quite closely to theirs too.

Cole and DeJong also had payoffs from their former clubs which allowed them to take reduced pay in LA. They sold Juninhio and Gonzalez in the offseason which helped add some allocation $$$ and cap/budget flexibility.


OK. I see what you're getting at. But fuck. Let's have the league be transparent! The allusion of favoritism reaks!

LA are either very well operated, or the league gives them pro bono wink winks ;

I think we have the right to know either way for sure.

For the love of this game, let's get MLS right! They can't hide the financials for ever and expect fans to take it. It's either a league of parity, or it's not. We need the truth.

[Richard]

OK. I see what you're getting at. But fuck. Let's have the league be transparent! The allusion of favoritism reaks!

LA are either very well operated, or the league gives them pro bono wink winks ;

I think we have the right to know either way for sure.

For the love of this game, let's get MLS right! They can't hide the financials for ever and expect fans to take it. It's either a league of parity, or it's not. We need the truth.

Good luck with that, at times this league is run like the WWE.

[molenshtain]

I didn't realise until this game how big LA is.

They are stacked with huge players... probably the biggest team in the league.

I don't understand how LA get away with the depth that they have.

Their players must be being paid under the table.

They can't possibly be cap compliant other wise.

EDIT: Just looked it up. Van Damme makes $500,000 a year. With all the super stars that they have how can they sneak in a player like this? They pay 11 players ~ $200,000 or more but the math doesn't seem to add up.

Ashley Cole
Robbie Keane (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Keane)
Steven Gerrard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Gerrard)
Alan Gordon (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Gordon_(soccer))
Giovani dos Santos (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovani_dos_Santos)
Gyasi Zardes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyasi_Zardes)
Robbie Rogers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Rogers)
Sebastian Lletget (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebastian_Lletget)
Mike Magee (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Magee_(soccer))
Jeff Larentowicz (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Larentowicz)
Nigel de Jong (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigel_de_Jong)
Jelle Van Damme (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jelle_Van_Damme)

How do they fit this into the MLS salary cap? Something is awry.


Selling Juninho and Gonzalez in the offseason gave them a shit ton of allocation money and cap space.

[Discostu81]

Good luck with that, at times this league is run like the WWE.

Money in the bank ladder match for allocation bucks?

[notthesun]

Selling Juninho and Gonzalez in the offseason gave them a shit ton of allocation money and cap space.

It was reported at the time that they didn't get any allocation for the Gonzalez sale.

https://twitter.com/JeffreyCarlisle/status/680088444962381824

[Richard]

Money in the bank ladder match for allocation bucks?

I like the sound of that!

[Pint]

It was reported at the time that they didn't get any allocation for the Gonzalez sale.

https://twitter.com/JeffreyCarlisle/status/680088444962381824

Oh ya forgot that you only get allocation if you sell a DP for more than the total cost of that player to that point.

[molenshtain]

It was reported at the time that they didn't get any allocation for the Gonzalez sale.

https://twitter.com/JeffreyCarlisle/status/680088444962381824

ah, right. I'd forgotten bout that aspect of the deal. Still a lot of cap space to play with though.

[burlington Red]

Haven't done the research yet... but LA have at least 6 players that formerly played in the EPL.

What!?!

They basically have 6 DP's compared to the rest of the league.

Forgive my ignorance, but can you name the 6 at least EPL players that play for la.

[Carter]

Forgive my ignorance, but can you name the 6 at least EPL players that play for la.
Ashley Cole (Chelsea)
Robbie Keane (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Keane) (Spurs)
Steven Gerrard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Gerrard) (Liverpool)
Giovani dos Santos (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovani_dos_Santos) (Spurs)
Sebastian Lletget (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebastian_Lletget) (West Ham)
Nigel de Jong (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigel_de_Jong) (City)
Jelle Van Damme (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jelle_Van_Damme) (Southhampton/Wanderers)

at some point in the career played for an EPL team (might not have been in the EPL when they played though) - could add Rogers to the list, but he played with Leeds, while they were a Championship team...

[Carter]

I didn't realise until this game how big LA is.

They are stacked with huge players... probably the biggest team in the league.

I don't understand how LA get away with the depth that they have.

Their players must be being paid under the table.

They can't possibly be cap compliant other wise.

EDIT: Just looked it up. Van Damme makes $500,000 a year. With all the super stars that they have how can they sneak in a player like this? They pay 11 players ~ $200,000 or more but the math doesn't seem to add up.

Ashley Cole
Robbie Keane (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Keane)
Steven Gerrard (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Gerrard)
Alan Gordon (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Gordon_(soccer))
Giovani dos Santos (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giovani_dos_Santos)
Gyasi Zardes (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyasi_Zardes)
Robbie Rogers (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Rogers)
Sebastian Lletget (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sebastian_Lletget)
Mike Magee (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Magee_(soccer))
Jeff Larentowicz (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Larentowicz)
Nigel de Jong (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigel_de_Jong)
Jelle Van Damme (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jelle_Van_Damme)

How do they fit this into the MLS salary cap? Something is awry.
Looked last night, it's 5.36 million roughly, that's using 436,250 cap it on their DPs and not including guaranteed contracts, just base salary. Cap is 3.49 million.....

[Auzzy]

The ref was Salazar.

Oops...

[Oldtimer]

Looked last night, it's 5.36 million roughly, that's using 436,250 cap it on their DPs and not including guaranteed contracts, just base salary. Cap is 3.49 million.....

The League hands out some general allocation money but no way it's $2 million.

[PopePouri]

I think I read somewhere that a large chunk of Cole and Van Damme's salary is coming from their previous clubs.

In the end, the way Arena has constructed his team feels like he'll retire next year because it's complete unsustainable. All those veterans and older DPs won't be there next season and Cole and Van Damme's salary will be on the books.

[OgtheDim]

Of this list of players


Ashley Cole
R (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_Keane)obbie Keane
Steven Gerrard
Alan Gordon
Giovani dos Santos
Gyasi Zardes
Robbie Rogers
Sebastian Lletget
Mike Magee
Jeff Larentowicz
Nigel de Jong
Jelle Van Damme

I'd say only Dos Santos, Zardes, Lletget and Rogers are back next season. Maybe..maybe...Cole. Gerrard for sure is gone and Keane is rumoured to be going. Magee aned Larentowicz are hoping for one final run to the Cup and likely are retiring. The rest are too expensive next year for the cap hit.

[Initial B]

I believe they've also backloaded some of the contracts so they'll be getting more money next year. It could all come back to plow up in their face, but i get the feeling that additional TAM is gong to be added at the end of this year.

[Detroit_TFC]

Of this list of players



I'd say only Dos Santos, Zardes, Lletget and Rogers are back next season. Maybe..maybe...Cole. Gerrard for sure is gone and Keane is rumoured to be going. Magee aned Larentowicz are hoping for one final run to the Cup and likely are retiring. The rest are too expensive next year for the cap hit.

Seems about right. They are heading to a rebuilding year next season.

[Yohan]

I believe they've also backloaded some of the contracts so they'll be getting more money next year. It could all come back to plow up in their face, but i get the feeling that additional TAM is gong to be added at the end of this year.
Arena is a genius when it comes to manipulation league rules, especially roster rules for his benefit. But the house of cards is bound to come down eventually and I think Arena might be fed up with being forced to add DPs to the roster when he doesn't really want them (IE Gerrard) because his boss said to increase marketing value of his squad.

[portu]

Arena is a genius when it comes to manipulation league rules, especially roster rules for his benefit. But the house of cards is bound to come down eventually and I think Arena might be fed up with being forced to add DPs to the roster when he doesn't really want them (IE Gerrard) because his boss said to increase marketing value of his squad.
That, but I also feel like he's done with MLS rules period. He wants CCL title to cap it all off, which is why he went all in this year.

[James17930]

There were muddy tire tracks in the northeast corner, about golf cart width. Not sure if that is CFL related... I've never seen that before so I assume it wasn't done by the grounds crew.

No paint or wear and tear centrally.

Really? That's pretty bad. Maybe caused by one of the lighting rigs?

[Auzzy]

Really? That's pretty bad. Maybe caused by one of the lighting rigs?

No it's been clarified that those tracks were from pre-game warmups & sprints by LA.

[paul-collins]

No it's been clarified that those tracks were from pre-game warmups & sprints by LA.
Divots in the end line still there last night, same location. YMMV.

[Auzzy]

Divots? Or muddy tire tracks? Same thing as before, or something new?

[paul-collins]

It's the remnants of the tire tracks, where they cross the line - they appear to be about 2 feet long. The grass clearly hasn't recovered on those spots yet.

Those spots are where the damage was sufficient to get to the soil; although truth be told, the paths in the grass further along the line (5-10m) were still visible too.

At this point I'm reverting to calling them tire tracks.