Match Day 2 - Off to Ethel Waters Neighbourhood- TFC @ Philly Sat March 11 4:30pm

[OgtheDim]

Could do with a goal or two



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zywZUhaUqMo


Have at It People

[Red CB Toronto]

Saturday afternoon at PPL Park or whatever they call it now can't come soon enough. The Reds really need to finish on their chances, make the most of them.

[RealG-TFC]

I'll say it, I expect a win. Philly didn't make any big moves, and we're a better team. A draw will be a disappointment.

[Detroit_TFC]

Weather may be a factor (cold and possibly snowy). Screwy March weather.

[Seanscape]

Anyone car pooling to philly and have a spot for 2. Will pitch for gas and but some rounds of drinks lol.

[Initial B]

I see TFC winning this game, no matter how well Blake plays. The strikers will be annoyed with themselves how they didn't score at RSL and will want to start opening their accounts.

[PopePouri]

Barnetta is a massive loss in terms of creativity.

Hope we bring it and break the duck.

[OgtheDim]

Edu is still out as well. Their defence isn't all that strong. BUT, as they did when they played us last season at their place, they will bunker and hope to hit us on the counter. We have to move the ball around quicker and try to get passes between the lines.

[Blindside16]

I think we should pull out the W in this one. Blake will make the game closer than it should be. I am saying 2-0 in this one with Jozy and Seba opening their season numbers in this one.

[ensco]

Trap game. Philly are a decent team.

Weather will reduce our skill advantage.

Please don't everyone lose their shit if we get beat.

[molenshtain]

Trap game. Philly are a decent team.

Weather will reduce our skill advantage.

Please don't everyone lose their shit if we get beat.

This. Philly are a fine team, and entirely capable of beating us at home despite us being a better team. regardless of what happens in this game we'll still 100% finish higher than them at the end of the season.

I just want to see a solid performance. Early season rust is expected.

[Areathrasher]

Trap game. Philly are a decent team.

Weather will reduce our skill advantage.

Please don't everyone lose their shit if we get beat.

Philly fans dont share your sentiment :lol:

This game will also be a Geiger show apparently

[RealG-TFC]

I don't see how the second game of the season, or really any of the first 4-5 games are "trap" games. Everyone is sloppy at this time of the year, and frankly Philadelphia will have to play in the same weather.

Maybe not lose one's shit but if we lose I certainly would start getting concerned.

[InSuL1nImP]

Hopefully Seba fixes his attitude this game and keeps it straight for the rest of the season. I see Jozy scoring 1-0 final.

[Yohan]

Hopefully Seba fixes his attitude this game and keeps it straight for the rest of the season. I see Jozy scoring 1-0 final.

What 'attitude' problem does giovinco have?

[Derko]

What 'attitude' problem does giovinco have?

You know the Toronto fantasies of discontent and locker room cancers. You know I jest.

People can be so fickle

[Canary10]

I know this won't be a popular opinion, and before I say it I think Giovinco is a star, and love everything he has done for our team. The only kit I have ever bought with a name on it is his. But...it doesn't sit well with me that he pulled himself out of the final. Maybe that's what the reference is.

[notthesun]

If he pulled himself earlier we probably would've won, honestly.

[OgtheDim]

Giovinco has repeatedly said he thought staying in meant we were playing with 10 rather than 11 and that we would be more dangerous with somebody who could run. Turns out we were (see the buildup before the Jozy header). Against a team that tactically set up, having one less runner means we were less likely to win if he stayed in.


Regardless, he was all in last week and will be all in this week. His interplay with teammates was pretty good last week and his few bad touches were still him getting to places where people don't normally get to. People who think he had an attitude last week are looking for stuff.

Sooner we get a win, the better.

[Canary10]

Giovinco has repeatedly said he thought staying in meant we were playing with 10 rather than 11 and that we would be more dangerous with somebody who could run. Turns out we were (see the buildup before the Jozy header). Against a team that tactically set up, having one less runner means we were less likely to win if he stayed in.


Regardless, he was all in last week and will be all in this week. His interplay with teammates was pretty good last week and his few bad touches were still him getting to places where people don't normally get to. People who think he had an attitude last week are looking for stuff.

Sooner we get a win, the better.

I know all that, but it still puts some doubts in my mind about his mentality. However, he's done so much for the team I'm not holding it against him. I think in some places people will though.

[Ben - D.O.W.]

I know all that, but it still puts some doubts in my mind about his mentality.

For me it did the opposite. Giovinco is a competitor and if he's physically able to play he wants to play every single minute, of every single game. The fact that he was willing to take himself out, and put the team's well-being first before his own desire to play says a lot to me.

[TFC Tifoso]

For me it did the opposite. Giovinco is a competitor and if he's physically able to play he wants to play every single minute, of every single game. The fact that he was willing to take himself out, and put the team's well-being first before his own desire to play says a lot to me.

exactly same here.....and same goes for Cristiano Ronaldo during the Euro....I never though much of him until that game, now my opinion totally changed.....of course, it was definitely legit because of the surgery after.

The key is where you write what I bolded.....its worded perfectly.....especially when you factor in the snub of Seba in the MVP voting and how determined he was to show they were wrong in not including him....

I question players who do not accept or understand that they are the player who the team relies on, but I'm pretty sure Seba knows this, and likes it too.....

[molenshtain]

exactly same here.....and same goes for Cristiano Ronaldo during the Euro....I never though much of him until that game, now my opinion totally changed.....of course, it was definitely legit because of the surgery after.

I wouldn't speak too soon on Ronaldo. The video of him giving a speech to the team after the game squashed any goodwill he may have built up for me. Basically went around the locker room degrading the rest of the team and staff by thanking them for winning him the cup.

I don't think Seba is like that though. IIRC during the final he tried to run off the cramps for 10-15 minutes but couldn't do it. I can't imagine anyone who's watched him over last two years really believes he's not a proper competitor. That just doesn't compute for me at all.

With regards to his form - meh. he went 6-7 in a row without scoring last season and we did fine. He's still the guy who produced more than a goal a game the last two years. Now that we have Altidore properly firing up there with him I can't see him slowing down any time soon. Give it time.

[OgtheDim]

Well....now....

https://twitter.com/JohnMolinaro/status/839177015051894788


Delgado at RWB I suspect.

[Canary10]

exactly same here.....and same goes for Cristiano Ronaldo during the Euro....I never though much of him until that game, now my opinion totally changed.....of course, it was definitely legit because of the surgery after.

The key is where you write what I bolded.....its worded perfectly.....especially when you factor in the snub of Seba in the MVP voting and how determined he was to show they were wrong in not including him....

I question players who do not accept or understand that they are the player who the team relies on, but I'm pretty sure Seba knows this, and likes it too.....

Fair enough. I can understand that reaction too.

[TFC Tifoso]

I wouldn't speak too soon on Ronaldo. The video of him giving a speech to the team after the game squashed any goodwill he may have built up for me. Basically went around the locker room degrading the rest of the team and staff by thanking them for winning him the cup.

I don't think Seba is like that though. IIRC during the final he tried to run off the cramps for 10-15 minutes but couldn't do it. I can't imagine anyone who's watched him over last two years really believes he's not a proper competitor. That just doesn't compute for me at all.

With regards to his form - meh. he went 6-7 in a row without scoring last season and we did fine. He's still the guy who produced more than a goal a game the last two years. Now that we have Altidore properly firing up there with him I can't see him slowing down any time soon. Give it time.

I never seen that video, but for me, I don't think there was a player in that locker room who would think for a second that they would've won the Euro without Ronaldo's contribution up to that game....as far as the final goes, well, anything can happen in a single game....I'm speaking more to the point of any star player at all having the awareness to say "I'm done", especially in matches of that magnitude.....every star player in every sport has an ego to a degree and it takes a lot from them to be able to say that imo.....

totally agree on the rest though.....

[PopePouri]

Well....now....

https://twitter.com/JohnMolinaro/status/839177015051894788


Delgado at RWB I suspect.

Put Cooper there and then bring back Osorio.

[notthesun]

I would guess if Beitashour can't play we either put Delgado there, or move Hagglund there (as Mavinga will be available and can take LCB while Zavaleta plays RCB). Philly doesn't have speed to burn on the wings (they had Pontius on the left wing in the opener) so it wouldn't be a complete mismatch with Hagglund like that time Castillo burned him twice in Dallas. However I'd still rather see Delgado because then the right flank wouldn't be dead weight in attack.

[TFC1154ever]

Or Mavinga plays LWB and Morrow moves over to the right side for one game. He's play RB before in his career

[MightyDM]

Well....now....

https://twitter.com/JohnMolinaro/status/839177015051894788


Delgado at RWB I suspect.

they won't do it, but I'd play Ricketts there. He would destroy Philly up the right

[MightyDM]

Put Cooper there and then bring back Osorio.

Oso will be starting.

[PopePouri]

Actually, I want Morrow to move to the right and we bring in Edwards to start.

[C.Ronaldo]

I wouldn't speak too soon on Ronaldo. The video of him giving a speech to the team after the game squashed any goodwill he may have built up for me. Basically went around the locker room degrading the rest of the team and staff by thanking them for winning him the cup.

I don't think Seba is like that though. IIRC during the final he tried to run off the cramps for 10-15 minutes but couldn't do it. I can't imagine anyone who's watched him over last two years really believes he's not a proper competitor. That just doesn't compute for me at all.

With regards to his form - meh. he went 6-7 in a row without scoring last season and we did fine. He's still the guy who produced more than a goal a game the last two years. Now that we have Altidore properly firing up there with him I can't see him slowing down any time soon. Give it time.

too much misunderstanding with Ronaldo, dont agree with you but lets not hijack the thread

[burlington Red]

I could be out to lunch here, wasn't there talk a while back of some Norwegian lad who could play right back who we picked up. Did he sign, and if so is he not ready to play?

[Areathrasher]

I could be out to lunch here, wasn't there talk a while back of some Norwegian lad who could play right back who we picked up. Did he sign, and if so is he not ready to play?

Alseth - one of the draft picks - he hasn't been signed or released...yet...

[C.Ronaldo]

Alseth - one of the draft picks - he hasn't been signed or released...yet...

that was in the player survey, how dumb it is to not be signed but not be released

[Oldtimer]

Alseth - one of the draft picks - he hasn't been signed or released...yet...


that was in the player survey, how dumb it is to not be signed but not be released

He could be trying in Europe first and MLS is his back up. After all he is from there.

[Areathrasher]

Per Larson...Sounds like they just haven't decided who's won the MLS contract


Toronto FC is also is leaning towards signing fullback Jordan McCrary and Oyvind Alseth, one of which will likely join TFC II

[C.Ronaldo]

He could be trying in Europe first and MLS is his back up. After all he is from there.

oyvind? hes from norway.

[mastermixer]

Weather in Philly for tomorrow looks colder than the MLS Cup Final. Lousy Smarch weather.

They actually postponed the game in New England tomorrow due to the cold.

[Cas87]

^^ think it was more so the amount of Snow they are expecting in NE than the cold (since the cold would be comparable to Philly at the same time).

[khso11]

Anyone driving to Philly right now beware there's heavy snow on the I-90 just west of Syracuse. Zero visibility!

[Auzzy]

So I guess there will be some people watching at Shoeless on Saturday? I wonder what's a good time to show up -- not sure what else might be on TV or other issues.

[OgtheDim]

Game Day :scarf:


Apparently the weather in Ethel Water's Neighbourhood today is going to reach a high, around game time, of -1.

A lot of quick passes on bumpy ground and a lot of long passes where even the best technical skills won't be able to corral things.

[OgtheDim]

Apparently this will be on TSN4

[ouderwien]

There has been an hour delay in curling due to the blackout. I'm assuming that means TFC will be bumped?

[Brandino88]

Vasquez and endoh starting today. Lets get this win

[notthesun]

Endoh steps in at RB, Vazquez moves Osorio to the bench. Edwards and Mavinga also on the bench.

[charlieocc]

I'm a bit surprised Vazquez got in and Mavinga didn't. Should be fun.

[molenshtain]

I'm a bit surprised Vazquez got in and Mavinga didn't. Should be fun.

Mavinga hasn't been with the team the last couple weeks - been with his wife and newborn in France. Think they're easing him into things.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I am expecting a shitty quality game because of the cold.
Anyways, before April 1 we can almost never expect good playing conditions for all games up from the northern part of Central US and the East Coast.
Same goes for any game after October 15.

[OgtheDim]

According to Wheeler, Beitashour didn't make the trip due to the concussion protocol and Cheyrou didn't make the trip either.

[OgtheDim]

There has been an hour delay in curling due to the blackout. I'm assuming that means TFC will be bumped?


https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/840661928930344960

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Mavinga hasn't been with the team the last couple weeks - been with his wife and newborn in France. Think they're easing him into things.

How normal is that a professional sports player gets more than 10 days leave for the birth of a child?
I mean you make minimum 2 times what a good paid person in other field of activity makes, plus you save a ton of money on other amenities the club puts on your behalf.

[Jpexxx]

Anyone know of any decent streams?

[Redpunkfiddle]

How normal is that a professional sports player gets more than 10 days leave for the birth of a child?
I mean you make minimum 2 times what a good paid person in other field of activity makes, plus you save a ton of money on other amenities the club puts on your behalf.

Maybe there is a reason. Who knows.

[molenshtain]

How normal is that a professional sports player gets more than 10 days leave for the birth of a child?
I mean you make minimum 2 times what a good paid person in other field of activity makes, plus you save a ton of money on other amenities the club puts on your behalf.

I think given the point we're at in the season and the fact that he's just signed with us factors in to this. If it was August I don't think we'd be so lenient.

IIRC correctly we gave somoene - I think it was Moor - a long weekend during he middle of the season last year to be with their newborn before calling him back.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Some supposed Youtube streams.
Usually a lots of these do not work "as advertised":

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rimT4ZcxBY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guYrXXKQxbI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAD1SwyreVI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEbD1IXV0fI

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Another stream here:

http://giostreams.eu/47.html

[notthesun]

From a Philly beat reporter. It sounds cold.

https://twitter.com/Kevin_Kinkead/status/840675723157352450

[JavierMartini]

Another stream here:

http://giostreams.eu/47.html

Why link something that tries to download a virus onto my pc?

[molenshtain]

http://goatdee.net/

[JavierMartini]

here ya go guys http://nowwatchtvlive.co/tsn4-live-stream-watch-tsn4-channel-online-free/

[canta15]

Kind of disappointed there are no Canadians in the starting 11, but lets see what Vasquez does.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Why link something that tries to download a virus onto my pc?
No viruses on giostream, I use a lot this site, but of course you ALWAYS need to have ad blocker in use.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

here ya go guys http://nowwatchtvlive.co/tsn4-live-stream-watch-tsn4-channel-online-free/
This feed is freezing a lot for me.
Anyone has same problem?

[OgtheDim]

A working Youtube - Philly commentators


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pMAal3xw0I

[OgtheDim]

Its old BACK OF THE OLD ONION BAG Dude on the Philly cast - Tommy Smythe

[desigujju]

All TSN Channels Live Free @ http://nowwatchtvlive.org

TSN 1 Link : http://nowwatchtvlive.org/tsn-live-stream-watch-tsn-1-online-channel-free/

TSN 2 Link : http://nowwatchtvlive.org/tsn-2-live-stream-watch-tsn-2-channel-online/

TSN 3 Link : http://nowwatchtvlive.org/tsn3-live-stream-watch-tsn3-channel-online-free/

TSN 4 Link : http://nowwatchtvlive.org/tsn4-live-stream-watch-tsn4-channel-online-free/

TSN 5 Link : http://nowwatchtvlive.org/tsn5-live-stream-watch-tsn5-channel-online-free/

Other Links : http://nowwatchtvlive.org , http://tvtoss.net , http://mytvlive.me

[QBall]

Quite a few empty seats.

[James17930]

http://cdn.livetvcdn.net/webplayer.php?t=ifr&c=625969&lang=en&eid=488538&lid=625969&ci=64&si=1

Here's a TSN stream.

A little worried about Endoh in there at RW.

[OgtheDim]

Oh, and found an SD stream with no commentary at all

http://firstrowca.eu/watch/520253/3/watch-philadelphia-union-vs-toronto-fc-.html

[Richard]

+1 to the Youtube stream, no malware and that nonsense to worry about.

[James17930]

Could see that coming.

[QBall]

Crap. That was piss poor defending.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Sorry, but this was very well deserved by Philly.
They came out firing on all cylinders, and we came out playing shit.

[notthesun]

So the Endoh at RB experiment is exposed after 10 minutes. Way too easily outjumped on that ball.

[JavierMartini]

this is what happens when you put endoh on fucking defense. my god. is it to early for #firevanney?

[Davenport]

What do you expect with a midget trying to defend ? Get him off now.

[OgtheDim]

Zavaletta having a bad time of it. Endoh saved him a few minutes earlier but Endoh's no RB - both of them had bad coverage on the goal.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

this is what happens when you put endoh on fucking defense. my god. is it to early for #firevanney?
No it's not.
He must be fired before the end of this game, lol...

[Alonso]

A working Youtube - Philly commentators


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pMAal3xw0I



Thank you for this! Great stream!

[General Woolfe]

Endoh doesn't have the physical build to play defence. He was simply brushed aside there by Pointius. The goal wasn't entirely on him though, Zavaletta should at least have put in a challenge. It's worrying the ease with which Philly are breaking down the left wing and spraying crosses over from there

[Hamilton_Red]

You know that he hasn't even shown he can make it in a natural wingers position never mind as a wingback. It's going to damage him to take him off before half time.

[notthesun]

We need to slow the game down and get some possession. The quick long balls on the counter are dying in the wind.

[General Woolfe]

Dangerous position. We could do with making this free kick count

[UpTheReds]

All we are saaaaaaaying is give uuusssss a goooaal!

[James17930]

Gotta give Philly credit here – they're pressuring really well. But we need to find a way to get through it.

But Endoh is going to be the weak link for sure. We're not going to get anything down the right side today.

[Richard]

Endoh shouldn't be starting period. He isn't good enough.

[UpTheReds]

Endoh might be off at half.

[Richard]

Altidore could pass for a CB, good second tackle there.

[ensco]

Have to keep Endoh in until the 60th minute. He has to play his way out of the hole.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

The Youtube stream is by far the best quality.

[Hamilton_Red]

3-5-2 is a crazy formation given the lack of defensive minded players. This was abgame where you play 4 at the back and theow in mavinga.

[Ajax TFC]

Endoh might be off at half.
For who? He's out there because we don't have a defensive right side player.

[James17930]

3-5-2 is a crazy formation given the lack of defensive minded players. This was abgame where you play 4 at the back and theow in mavinga.

That might be the best option, actually.

[Bobo]

For who? He's out there because we don't have a defensive right side player.

Morrow has played RB in the past and Delgado, as disappointing as he's been in defense in the past, at least has experience there. This was a silly decision from Vanney, and he'll need to correct it somehow today.

[Davenport]

Have to keep Endoh in until the 60th minute. He has to play his way out of the hole.
Seriously ? I'd get him off now, he's a liability.

[Davenport]

Agreed there, and I have my doubts about Cooper, he has no real footballing ability.

[General Woolfe]

Never a penalty!

Justice is served

[James17930]

Yep, Mark Geiger again.

[UpTheReds]

Caught a break there!

[notthesun]

That was just dumb from Hagglund. The ball was going well over Herbers' head.

[QBall]

Hagglund was damn foolish and damn lucky.

[James17930]

That wasn't even in the box!

What the fucking fuck.

[James17930]

I can see my stream is a few minutes behind.

[ensco]

Seriously ? I'd get him off now, he's a liability.

It's about more than this game, this early in the season.

[Richard]

That wasn't even in the box!

What the fucking fuck.

Apparently pulling someone into the box makes it a penalty.

[notthesun]

Absolutely nothing going against Philly's press. We might have to switch formations, this isn't working.

[UpTheReds]

Agreed there, and I have my doubts about Cooper, he has no real footballing ability.

He's not very good in tight spaces with the ball. Terrific work rate but that's about it.

[OgtheDim]

Our passing is the worst I've seen in years. We might be against the wind but this is bad.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

That was a borderline penalty, 50% of refs would give that.
If this lifeline given with the missed penalty does not wakes up TFC, nothing will.

[ag futbol]

Endoh doesn't have the physical build to play defence. He was simply brushed aside there by Pointius. The goal wasn't entirely on him though, Zavaletta should at least have put in a challenge. It's worrying the ease with which Philly are breaking down the left wing and spraying crosses over from there
There are some diminutive fullbacks out there. But what they lack in size they make up for in defensive positioning.

At the risk of stating the obvious, Endoh has neither going for him.

[OgtheDim]

Oh Endoh....you lost me on that break.


Delgado at 45 or 60 please.

[Davenport]

...and then he does a couple of good things. Endoh looks like he's jumped in from the under 12's game next door.

[ensco]

We are being seriously outplayed across the board.

[Davenport]

Oh Endoh....you lost me on that break.


Delgado at 45 or 60 please.

You'd keep him in that long ? I'd change him now, he's simply not good enough in so many aspects.

[Ajax TFC]

Morrow has played RB in the past and Delgado, as disappointing as he's been in defense in the past, at least has experience there. This was a silly decision from Vanney, and he'll need to correct it somehow today.
So move the LB to RB, and then? Could play Manvinga I guess. I just think there's a good change of anyone you put at RB doing a subpar job. That's just going to be the reality when you lose a solid player like Beitashour. I think Endoh's doing a servicable job. Zavaleta is making worse mistakes than Endoh, and he's a player that they should be able to rely on.

[James17930]

Vasquez has been invisible so far – seems it's going to take him a while to figure out his role.

[General Woolfe]

Too early to pull Endoh imho. He's not the only one who is poor. Vázquez has been anonymous, Morrow has repeatedly been caught out of position, and Seba looks lethargic.

However, if we do make a sub, moving to a 4-4-2 makes sense. Move Hagglund to RB and bring in Osorio as Endoh's replacement at RM.

Its been a shitshow throughout the side if were honest. The playoffs seem a long time ago...

[ensco]

I am worrying amount the ampunt of semi-pointless hard running Gio is doing in this weather.

I'd sub him out at 60 minutes also

[Davenport]

Have to go 4-4-2 second half and with the wind it could be a different game.

[Richard]

Vasquez has been invisible so far – seems it's going to take him a while to figure out his role.

Yeah you wouldn't even know he was in the game.

[Ajax TFC]

Agreed there, and I have my doubts about Cooper, he has no real footballing ability.
Agree on Cooper. Serviceable player, but if we used TAM to keep him, it probably wasn't the best use of resources. Would rather have Will Johnson TBH.

[General Woolfe]

Looks like Seba wants out of there...

I didnt think the contact was that bad.

[SirBobSaget]

Endoh has got to be the worse crosser on the team. Skies it or rolls it 10 yards. Vanney's decision to start him at RW reminds me of the horror show Hagglund had starting at RB in Dallas.

[UpTheReds]

This doesn't look good...

[James17930]

This actually looks pretty bad.

[SirBobSaget]

For who? He's out there because we don't have a defensive right side player.
Ricketts played a season at RB in Israel.Delgado has also played there.

[ensco]

I am worrying amount the ampunt of semi-pointless hard running Gio is doing in this weather.

I'd sub him out at 60 minutes also

Christ that happened maybe 1 minute after I typed this.

[UpTheReds]

This actually looks pretty bad.

Like ACL bad.

Let's hope it's just a really bad contusion.

[James17930]

Maybe like a bone bruise thing?

[General Woolfe]

Yeeesss!!! All level

[Ajax TFC]

Vasquez has been invisible so far – seems it's going to take him a while to figure out his role.
Was focusing on him earlier. Flashbacks of Kyle Bekker

[OgtheDim]

Back of his leg - abductor?

[James17930]

Jeebus, what a crazy game so far.

[UpTheReds]

Generally ligament damage like an ACL results from a pivot or shot to the knee joint. I think it's more likely a deep confusion. Hard knee cap in the cold would be very painful. Let's hope that's what it is!

[notthesun]

Maybe Giovinco needs the time off anyways - I know it's only been a game and a half but he hasn't looked himself.

Vazquez is really gonna have to step up if Giovinco is out.

[SoccMan2]

Ok I thought the MLS is testing some kind of video replay for things like goals, and disputed penalties and disputed red cards,so how does this work?

[Davenport]

Ricketts played a season at RB in Israel.Delgado has also played there.
Ricketts was a RaBbi in Israel ? Delgado has also played in Israel ?

[woolly]

Maybe Giovinco needs the time off anyways - I know it's only been a game and a half but he hasn't looked himself.

Vazquez is really gonna have to step up if Giovinco is out.

Vasquez is gonna have to step it up regardless... The way hes playing I'd rather have Oso out there.

[woolly]

Ok I thought the MLS is testing some kind of video replay for things like goals, and disputed penalties and disputed red cards,so how does this work?

Magnets?

[Davenport]

Jeebus, what a crazy game so far.
Yeah, a classic example of why MLS isn't considered that important.

[ag futbol]

Was focusing on him earlier. Flashbacks of Kyle Bekker
I don't want to put him down that badly but to me he's miscast. We need a legit threat to score from midfield. He looks like he wants to play provider and that's great but it's still the same 2 guys we count on to score. If that's all we're doing it's still too easy for teams to blanket us.

I want someone with a nose for goal and genuine pace. That could be an AM but a high quality winger would be useful to .. especially in this damn 3-5-2 crap.

[charlieocc]

Let's pretend,
Let's pretend,
Let's pretend we deserved a goal!

[canta15]

aha I think he means at right back

[molenshtain]

Yeah, a classic example of why MLS isn't considered that important.

What does one thing have to do with the other?

[woolly]

Our Mid line has been awful this half.... Seems Vasquez is dropping too far back and overlapping Bradley (they even ran into each other) and the D have noone to pass the ball up so they hoof it. Cooper has been stoned every chance he has to move and Endoh has been a complete non-factor.

[UpTheReds]

Vasquez is gonna have to step it up regardless... The way hes playing I'd rather have Oso out there. Agreed. But we have to start playing in the opposition half. Vazquez will shine when we are in possession and he has the opportunity to play that final ball.

[OgtheDim]

Ok I thought the MLS is testing some kind of video replay for things like goals, and disputed penalties and disputed red cards,so how does this work?

Not in use until half way through the season. Right now VAR's are watching certain games, not all but are not involved during play - basically learning when feedback might be possible.

[woolly]

Agreed. But we have to start playing in the opposition half. Vazquez will shine when we are in possession and he has the opportunity to play that final ball.

I agree, but as I pointed out hes been playing so far back hes tripping over Bradley... We'll never get the ball up the field like that...

[Davenport]

What does one thing have to do with the other?
The crazy game comment. It's a different league.

[Davenport]

aha I think he means at right back
I know. Zoom............

[molenshtain]

The crazy game comment. It's a different league.

Crazy games happen everywhere at all levels of play. Unpredictability isn't solely and MLS thing.

[General Woolfe]

Its a bit harsh to lay this all at Endoh's door. Bradley needs to do better handling Bedoya, hes giving him too much freedom to orchestrate the Philly attack. WE need better from Vázquez and Cooper as well, we've shown zero threat going forward. Im not sure Seba will be missed as he hasnt looked interested at all this season.

[UpTheReds]

I agree, but as I pointed out hes been playing so far back hes tripping over Bradley... We'll never get the ball up the field like that....

You're right, even Giovinco was coming very deep to collect the ball.

[Davenport]

Crazy games happen everywhere at all levels of play. Unpredictability isn't solely and MLS thing.
Agreed, but MLS games more than any others tend to be unpredictable. From players to refs you never know what's going to happen next. Exciting yes, but it does prove a general lack of quality. Harsh comments I know, but not far off.

[woolly]

I think the the difference we're seeing is Vasquez having more skill, but Oso understand the system better.

Oso gets the ball more often and in a better position, but Vasquez will be better (I hope) at doing somethign with it.

But in his defense, Oso has made some retina-detaching plays in his career for TFC

[Ajax TFC]

I don't want to put him down that badly but to me he's miscast. We need a legit threat to score from midfield. He looks like he wants to play provider and that's great but it's still the same 2 guys we count on to score. If that's all we're doing it's still too easy for teams to blanket us.

I want someone with a nose for goal and genuine pace. That could be an AM but a high quality winger would be useful to .. especially in this damn 3-5-2 crap.
I was hesitant to make the comparison. I don't think he's as bad as Bekker, but the way he moves is reminiscent. I'm sure he has qualities, but they need to set up differently to take advantage of those qualities.

[James17930]

ONe good thing about this is seeing what Ricketts can do with 45 mins.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Yeah, a classic example of why MLS isn't considered that important.
Yes.
Still at least 10 years to go until MLS will be one of the top 10 leagues of the world.

Of course no chance inside 25 years to beat any of the 1st 5 leagues from Europe.

[molenshtain]

It's a leg contusion.

[notthesun]

Vazquez isn't fit. Trying to conserve his energy for when he has the ball. It's hurting us defensively and in build up.

Let's get Chapman out there. Vanney a bit too eager to work Vazquez in. He needed, needs more time.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

The fun thing is I was happy Seba in not on the pitch when we get the penalty.
How many games he'll be out?

[ag futbol]

Vazquez isn't fit. Trying to conserve his energy for when he has the ball. It's hurting us defensively and in build up.

Let's get Chapman out there. Vanney a bit too eager to work Vazquez in. He needed, needs more time.
Don't think he even made the team sheet :/

[69Chevy396]

It's a leg contusion.
moderate contusion means Seba out until May

[James17930]

I've actually been quite impressed with Cooper, starting with the playoffs last year.

I don't see the negativity against him. He's pretty good at maintaining control.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

The first touch from Altidore was bad.

[notthesun]

Almost there. The penalty seems like it was a lifeline. This is about a million times better than the first half so far.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

moderate contusion means Seba out until May
Are you serious?

[notthesun]

Don't think he even made the team sheet :/

Nah he's on the bench.

[OgtheDim]

I agree with Tommy Smythe - we are playing much better without Giovinco (although I think its mostly because we have the wind and are playing the ball quicker)

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I will be happy if this ends 1-1.
From the get go this looked like one of those days...

[UpTheReds]

I will be happy if this ends 1-1.
From the get go this looked like one of those days...

I will be happy with a draw as well...in all these away ties to start the season, 3 points would be good, anything else is bonus.

[Alonso]

Agreed there, and I have my doubts about Cooper, he has no real footballing ability.


He's not very good in tight spaces with the ball. Terrific work rate but that's about it.



You guys are out to lunch if you think a national team Panamanian footballer has no footballing ability.

Give your heads a shake.

Panama is ranked 53 in FIFA rankings, compared to Canada's 117 ranking I think you can do the math and realize this man has more value as a footballer than you realize.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I will be happy with a draw as well...in all these away ties to start the season, 3 points would be good, anything else is bonus.

Before the first game and this one too most TFC guys said TFC should win.
I don't know how good will be 3 points from 9 possible, given that it's impossible that we'll win more than 75% of all our home games.

[UpTheReds]

You guys are out to lunch if you think a national team Panamanian footballer has no footballing ability.

Give your heads a shake.

Panama is ranked 53 in FIFA rankings, compared to Canada's 117 ranking I think you can do the math and realize this man has more value as a footballer than you realize.

I think he has talent, but he's not a great passer and he lacks composure on the ball. Just count how many times he loses the ball during a game. It's noticeable for me. But that's just my opinion. I'm not trying to ruffle any feathers.

[Ajax TFC]

Been liking Vazquez a lot more this half

[Davenport]

You guys are out to lunch if you think a national team Panamanian footballer has no footballing ability.

Give your heads a shake.

Panama is ranked 53 in FIFA rankings, compared to Canada's 117 ranking I think you can do the math and realize this man has more value as a footballer than you realize.

53rd...wow. Let's see in 4 or 5 months.

[RealG-TFC]

Been liking Vazquez a lot more this half

yeah vazquez seems to have woken up

[tfcfans]

YAY!!

[James17930]

Yes!

[Batman]

Yes!


well, that was short lived

insert facepalm here.

[tfcfans]

Just get a tie and get out of there please.....yeesh....

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I will be happy if this ends 1-1.
From the get go this looked like one of those days...
Like I said...

[notthesun]

Ah the old TFC classic, "score and concede in two minutes".

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I never liked anything about this game.
Just get the fuck out of here with a 2-2, and without more injuries.

[Detroit_TFC]

Back line organization is suffering.

[Detroit_TFC]

Geiger just irritates me. Even when he is correct, he irritates me.

[OgtheDim]

Almost every time they get a rush, its because of something by Endoh.

[69Chevy396]

Are you serious?
Mild thigh contusion, about 7 days. Moderate, can easily take 6 weeks. Full tear or serious contusion, 4-6 months

[PizzaEatingYeti]

It's clear we want to preserve the 2-2.
Mavinga coming in..

[James17930]

well, that was short lived

insert facepalm here.

TFC-style.

[ag futbol]

Almost every time they get a rush, its because of something by Endoh.
It's like shades of warren creavalle. We better not make this a thing.

[69Chevy396]

Sincerely hope this is last we see of Endoh this season

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Mild thigh contusion, about 7 days. Moderate, can easily take 6 weeks. Full tear or serious contusion, 4-6 months
We are fuked then...

[Batman]

Mild thigh contusion, about 7 days. Moderate, can easily take 6 weeks. Full tear or serious contusion, 4-6 months

and some detail
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/thigh-pain/dead-leg

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Sincerely hope this is last we see of Endoh this season
I hope this was the last we see him ever in TFC gear.
He's not playoff aspirant MLS teams caliber player.

[Detroit_TFC]

Last several minutes have looked good.

[Hamilton_Red]

Endoh wouldn't be on the bench if he was Canadian. He is way out of his class.

[James17930]

C'mon, let's nick one here and steal the game.

[James17930]

Endoh wouldn't be on the bench if he was Canadian. He is way out of his class.

He was much better in the second half, it must be said.

[Davenport]

Sincerely hope this is last we see of Endoh this season
Hopefully it's the Endoh the line.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Damn.
My heart stopped beating here.

[Davenport]

He was much better in the second half, it must be said.
Are you watching ?

[James17930]

Are you watching ?

Yes.

[jloome]

Hopefully it's the Endoh the line.

He's just not showing anything at this level. I feel the same way somewhat about Mo. But Endoh has had many more chances and there's just nothing exceptional to offset his deficiencies.

[OgtheDim]

Oh look....ugly away point. Take it and run.


Beitashour should be back next week which will help with the balance on the right side.

[General Woolfe]

Much better second half performance. I suppose a draw isnt a disaster, but it feels like we let two points slip by conceding so soon after taking the lead. Zavaletta looking suspect at both goals. I hope Mavinga can bring some stability to our defence as we still look vulnerable at the back. There were some glimpses of talent from Vázquez, enough to suggest he can be an assest going forward. I fear young Endoh needs a spell with TFCII. His confidence seems shot and he is playing with too much fear. All in all 2 points from two road games isn't great but they might be valuable when everything is decided in the Fall

[notthesun]

All right, yeah we could've won it but considering the first half we really had no right to. I'll take the point from this one.

Second half we actually looked like a team, still pretty shaky at times and not quite getting it done in attack, but at least it was a big improvement from the first 45.

Things to watch vs. Vancouver: Vazquez's fitness and our threat level without Giovinco.

[Detroit_TFC]

Feh. Lots to complain about but there were some external factors too (cold, wind, Geiger). If it takes TFC 45 minutes to get active, it's going to be difficult to win these early games.

[Hugh Jazz]

You guys are out to lunch if you think a national team Panamanian footballer has no footballing ability.

Give your heads a shake.



He has ability but I don't like his decision making. More often than not he puts himself in a situation to draw a foul. For the last 10 minutes he was on you could see Geiger had enough of him and wasn't calling anything for him.

[gracos]

Without Giovinco its going to be a very hard season to make the playoffs

[molenshtain]

Without Giovinco its going to be a very hard season to make the playoffs

We don't even know if he's going to miss next week. Let's not get hysterical.

Besides, we're a playoff team without him now either way. not nearly as good obviously, but a playoff team nonetheless.

[mistercorporate]

Sincerely hope this is last we see of Endoh this season

I was shocked to see him in the lineup with better alternatives present! Give Raheem Edwards or Marky Delgado a chance before this guy.

[InSuL1nImP]

Cooper has poor decision making at times. However his creativity and ability to draw fouls is key for us. I believe the team plays better without seba. They play better all around instead of worrying about pleasing seba and giving him the ball every time. It's a very long season and if we can keep pace throughout the first half of the season and crank it to another level second half we will be in great shape. Just remember getting into the playoffs is the key NOT what # seed.

[General Woolfe]

Without Giovinco its going to be a very hard season to make the playoffs

To be honest I thought he was overreacting at first as it seemed to be nothing more than a dead leg. The way he brought his legs together and dropped like a stone suggested to me he was playacting. If it were a serious injury I think he instinctively would have tried to support his weight on his left leg. But hey, i'm no expert. I will say though his body language has been all wrong the first two games and he looks like he doesn't want to be there. He has been very half-hearted in chasing down balls and looks more content to win the foul. I just hope his mind isn't on all that Yuan he turned down in the off season

[69Chevy396]

We don't even know if he's going to miss next week. Let's not get hysterical.

Besides, we're a playoff team without him now either way. not nearly as good obviously, but a playoff team nonetheless.
First, and foremost, Seba is the best thing to happen to TFC. However, the team may ultimately play better without him given his recent form (he was invisible before the injury)

[OgtheDim]

Good stuff - Rickett's looked great coming in and his speed helped. Jozy beast mode is very good. Irwin more consistent. Mavinga cameo showed he has some wheels. Vasquez shows a lot of potential when/if he gets his fitness up.

One thing about Vazquez - the guy hasn't been in a game since August, except for 10 minutes in a game in early October.

[69Chevy396]

To be honest I thought he was overreacting at first as it seemed to be nothing more than a dead leg. The way he brought his legs together and dropped like a stone suggested to me he was playacting. If it were a serious injury I think he instinctively would have tried to support his weight on his left leg. But hey, i'm no expert. I will say though his body language has been all wrong the first two games and he looks like he doesn't want to be there. He has been very half-hearted in chasing down balls and looks more content to win the foul. I just hope his mind isn't on all that Yuan he turned down in the off season. I think his thoughts have been on the Italian NT and the realization he will not be a member of that team any time soon. Seba played his best TFC soccer when he was still hopeful if that NT call up

[UpTheReds]

The 2nd half was much better. We are two games into the new season. We were the better team last week and should won on the road at altitude. Today it took us 45 mins to get going. Last year I think we saw we can organize the back line. We'll be fine. It's wasaaaaay too early to worry.

[Hamilton_Red]

Good things we saw today IMO...
Mavinga looked good when he came on.
Vasquez is progressing..still not there yet but you can see that he will get there.
Ricketts looked a spark when he came on again - the team picked up after Giovinco went off.

Concerns:
Endoh is not of sufficient quality to make it at this level yet.
Cooper is not as impactful a player as Johnson. Vasquez will have to come good to make this mid rebalance worthwhile.
Second goal was bad Bradley from mid last season.
Gio and Altidore need to get going. Missed another header ala 10 December - that could have won the game.
Lastly - Vanney... has to have more flexibility with the formations. That should have been a 4-4-2 or even a 4-5-1 to start the day with Beitashour out. They targeted wee Endoh and it could have cost us the game in the first half...lucky penalty saved us.

On the bright side - I get to see them live next week - yeah!

[molenshtain]

. I think his thoughts have been on the Italian NT and the realization he will not be a member of that team any time soon. Seba played his best TFC soccer when he was still hopeful if that NT call up


He went on a tear last summer after he didn't get called up. He also had 5 goals in 6 playoffs games. Let's not create a narrative over a less than 5 game stretch played over 2 seasons. He'll be fine. We'll all be fine.

[reggie]

the sky is falling

[Hamilton_Red]

the sky is falling

Easy there chicken little!

[PizzaEatingYeti]

First, and foremost, Seba is the best thing to happen to TFC. However, the team may ultimately play better without him given his recent form (he was invisible before the injury)

This was the 5th official game in row (beginning with the 1st leg in Montreal) where Seba played not good at all, ,,,, not better than a player making $1 million per year.
Given the 2 full months without competition between games 3 and 4 of this stretch, yes, this is a worrying trend already.

[reggie]

Easy there chicken little!
jus kidding,,,to much panic so early on.

[Thomas]

Completely disagree. He was one of the better players in this match, and draws a lot of fouls.

Agreed there, and I have my doubts about Cooper, he has no real footballing ability.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Good stuff - Rickett's looked great coming in and his speed helped. Jozy beast mode is very good. Irwin more consistent. Mavinga cameo showed he has some wheels. Vasquez shows a lot of potential when/if he gets his fitness up.

One thing about Vazquez - the guy hasn't been in a game since August, except for 10 minutes in a game in early October.

We should expect Vasquez to be 100% fit for the 4th game of the season, which is the home opener.
But zero excuses there, that he had not enough time to go to full fitness!

[starter]

Completely disagree. He was one of the better players in this match, and draws a lot of fouls.

Cooper should be getting much more love than he does on this board. He is our midfield engine on the most games.

Vanney needs to encourage Cooper and Vasquez to shoot more to spread the offence around a bit.

[ag futbol]

2 road points .. not bad. Win next week and it's officially a successful road trip.

[Bobo]

We should expect Vasquez to be 100% fit for the 4th game of the season, which is the home opener.
But zero excuses there, that he had not enough time to go to full fitness! With Vazquez, I think its more an issue of not being familiar with the system than not being at full fitness. There were several times when he was nowhere to be found, leaving Bradley unable to move the ball through the midfield. He seems to be a guy who likes to roam in a free role; this setup does not give him that ability. Hopefully he can adapt, but I wouldn't be surprised to see a shift in tactics in the near future.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

2 road points .. not bad. Win next week and it's officially a successful road trip.

Agree.
But draw again next week, and it's just a marginally acceptable road trip with 3 points out of 9 possible.

[QBall]

We are fuked then...

I don't know, we seemed to have played better in the second half without Giovinco. Ricketts and Altidore seem to click better.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I don't know, we seemed to have played better in the second half without Giovinco. Ricketts and Altidore seem to click better.
True, but I am talking about the real Seba, not the one which showed up in the last 5 official TFC games.
I suppose he won't play this bad forever.

[OgtheDim]

We should expect Vasquez to be 100% fit for the 4th game of the season, which is the home opener.
But zero excuses there, that he had not enough time to go to full fitness!

Hmm...nah that's unreasonable.

Past history has shown any player with a 6 month layoff before he even trained with a team is going to take AT LEAST 4 games to be match fit and successful.

E.g.

Seba - Dallas game is when he finally found his feet.

[UpTheReds]

Agree.
But draw again next week, and it's just a marginally acceptable road trip with 3 points out of 9 possible.

I agree that it would be nice to get out of these first 3 games with more. But if you look at them, at altitude week 1 in RSL, bitterly cold night in Philly, playing on turf in Vancouver? 3 points from those games isn't a disaster at all. Even if they lose next week, it would be disappointing yes, but I still think this team has waaaaaay too much quality to be concerned in March.

[nonc]

It is still TFC tradition to give up horrific goals just after scoring.

To me Moor hasn't been as convincing as I'm used to. He's been caught 'in between' a lot the first two games.

[Hamilton_Red]

Bradley was at fault for the second in my opinion. That and playing three at the back. And Endoh.

[SoccMan2]

Vanney out!

[UpTheReds]

Could be worse tonight, Montreal gave up the equalizer at home in the 94th minute...after being up 2-0...against Seattle.

[SoccMan2]

Let's trade Giovinco for Piatti because right now Giovinco has been useless since the away playoff game versus NYCFC.

[OgtheDim]

3 at the back works fine if your WB's are good enough. Hoping Beitashour is back but if he isn't, I'd prefer Hagglund out there over Endoh. Endoh's passing was atrocious to the point of being non-sensical - on at least 3 occasions he passed weakly and didn't get the ball anywhere near his target. He wasn't doing that last year where he at least got the ball past the first guy. He seems to have lost leg strength. He's had his chance and should have to work his way back in like others did last year.

[Detroit_TFC]

Looks like Ale Bedoya chirped at Altidore in the post game interviews, something about going down easy in the box. Jozy gave him a piece of his mind on Twitter. That will make for an interesting dynamic at the next USMNT camp.

Update:

Bedoya walked it back on Twitter, said he was quoted out of context, tried to make nice with JA. Uh-huh.

[OgtheDim]

Bedoya just tweeted back about it all being good being taken out of context etc. etc. Union fans are livid but then as somebody said to Larson, Philly fans never think the ref makes a good call ever.

[Detroit_TFC]

Yeah, out of context...

https://twitter.com/215pix/status/840761088023113728

[Hamilton_Red]

That's hilarious.

[PAOK17]

Yeah, out of context...

https://twitter.com/215pix/status/840761088023113728LOL he states not to have seen it twice in those 10 seconds but then decides to make a judgement anyway.

[Oldtimer]

Philly needs a better gk.

[James17930]

Don't understand the negativity against Cooper. At first, last year, I wasn't sold on him – thought he flopped around too much and didn't do much, but since the playoffs, and including the last two games, I think he's been excellent. Today especially, he was very good at shielding the ball in the midfield and looking to spring players. Maybe sometimes, as some people have mentioned, his decision-making isn't the best, but I really think he's becoming quite a better player than I would've thought possible.