Match Day 12 - Minnesota @ TFC Saturday May 13th 3pm - LETS GO CRAZY!!

[OgtheDim]

Dearly Beloved

We are Gathered Here Today

To Get Through this Thing Called Life



https://vimeo.com/194308853




Have At It People

[DinamoTFC]

Edwards, Cheyrou or Delgado (because game flows well with him) and Ricketts deserve to start next game.

Maybe rest altidore a game and give ricketts a start with Giovinco if he's back and healthy.

And Mavinga didn't deserve to come off today. He was playing well. Rather should have been Zavaleta. But he was sacrificed for the tactical change. Hope he gets another starting chance and the switch doesn't kill his confidence.

Also first time we ever won 5 game in a row such a good feeling. Let's make it 6 this weekend!

[notthesun]

https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/862497701161828352

I expect Delgado to move back into the starting lineup as well.

Moor may also return for this.

[OgtheDim]

Mavinga was tweeting supportive stuff after the game.

He's good with this. I think Hagglund needs to sit a game, as does Altidore.

The Loons are going to play a stock 4-4-2 low block with two DM's and two wingers and two forwards. Their FB's will not venture far up the pitch at all. This is going to be a counter game from them. If anything, this is the game where Chapman & Vasquez & Delgado could co-exist. I'd like to see Seba up front with Chapman behind him and then a mid 3 of Bradley Vasquez & Delgado. Edwards in for Morrow & Beitashour back on the right. Fast ball movement and quick touches to break the Loons down.

[mistercorporate]

I think Edwards deserves to be a permanent starter, one way or another, please make this happen. The Edwards and Vasquez combo is like having another Giovinco on the field, total game changers!

[James17930]

Mavinga was tweeting supportive stuff after the game.

He's good with this. I think Hagglund needs to sit a game, as does Altidore.

The Loons are going to play a stock 4-4-2 low block with two DM's and two wingers and two forwards. Their FB's will not venture far up the pitch at all. This is going to be a counter game from them. If anything, this is the game where Chapman & Vasquez & Delgado could co-exist. I'd like to see Seba up front with Chapman behind him and then a mid 3 of Bradley Vasquez & Delgado. Edwards in for Morrow & Beitashour back on the right. Fast ball movement and quick touches to break the Loons down.

I agree that Haglund and Jozy should rest, and also Morrow. If Moor is back maybe have him with Mavinga and Zava or Hernandez.

And Edwards should totally start.

[zamperina]

The REDS going for 6 in a row in the 6ix!

[Cashcleaner]

Anyone know if the MU fans were planning on coming up in any numbers? Looking at some of their Supporter Group sites, they really have a handle on road trips.

[Section_105]

hopefully the team stays focused for this one. the Loons have climbed from the basement to almost playoff places (some games in hand behind them though....) Would like to see some guys rested but also want this to be a blow out for the 6th win in a row! come on the weather!

[OgtheDim]

Right now, the weather forecast is for the rain to stop at noon. 11 degrees.

[UpTheReds]

I wonder why the league would give us a 3pm KO after a midweek game. They could have at least given us a 7pm KO or a Sunday KO.

[fergiejr]

The REDS going for 6 in a row in the 6ix!

#BannerIdeas. :-)

[Stress]

A lot of talk of resting guys but TFC is also concerned about the product and likely won't rest any major pieces for home games unless there's actually injuries (or they are Canadian Championship games). I fully expect Jozy and Bradley to play on Saturday.

[Canary10]

I wonder why the league would give us a 3pm KO after a midweek game. They could have at least given us a 7pm KO or a Sunday KO.

This is part of the reason why the Supporter's Shield doesn't really crown the league champion. They would need much more consistent scheduling than we have in MLS to properly elevate the SS. Why does TFC have two DGWs in a row? It's really ridiculous.

[PopePouri]

This is part of the reason why the Supporter's Shield doesn't really crown the league champion. They would need much more consistent scheduling than we have in MLS to properly elevate the SS. Why does TFC have two DGWs in a row? It's really ridiculous.

I believe this is on CTV.

[C.Ronaldo]

the scheduling is horrible

way too may games, even from a fan's perspective

[Cas87]

Let us not forget that Saturday's game will mark 10 years (+1 day) of Danny Dichio first goal in TFC history.

We really need to bring it @ 23:13 :scarf:

http://magazine.bramptonsoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/Danny-Dichio.jpg

[Oldtimer]

I wonder why the league would give us a 3pm KO after a midweek game. They could have at least given us a 7pm KO or a Sunday KO.

Everything is decided by TV these days.

I actually like earlier games before the weather gets too hot.

[charlieocc]

FYI all, this game is a double header. TFC II are playing at BMO right after the first team.

[Section_105]

FYI all, this game is a double header. TFC II are playing at BMO right after the first team.

This is a good point. do you know if we have in/out privilege so we can go get snacks from outside?

[Marauder2]

Does anyone know what kinds of hats they sell at the game and some price ranges? Thanks!

[denime]

Let us not forget that Saturday's game will mark 10 years (+1 day) of Danny Dichio first goal in TFC history.

We really need to bring it @ 23:13 :scarf:

http://magazine.bramptonsoccer.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/Danny-Dichio.jpg

This !!

[Cas87]

I'll take a shot at the formation tomorrow:

---------------------------------- Irwin ------------------------------------------
--------- Haggs -----------Moor/Hernandez---------------- Zava -------------
-- Morrow ------------------------- Bradley ----------------------- Edwards --
-------------------- Delgado ------------------------ Vazquez ------------------
------------------------ Seba --------------------------- Jozy -------------------

Bono
Chapman -- Sub @ 65' for Bradley/Vazquez (whichever is deemed to need a rest, probably with formation shift)
Cheyrou
Endoh
Ricketts -- Sub @ 70' for Jozy
Mavinga
Moor / Hernandez

[woolly]

I think we're going to see Ricketts start over Jozy, with JHam subbing for him or Seba in the last 10'-15' min.

[OgtheDim]

Journos from training:

Osorio is out with an illness

Seba can wear shoes again and should play

[ensco]

Vanney needs to sit Bradley.

Keep Chapman in there. Let's give Marky a full game. He has earned it.

[Platts]

Absolutely agree ensco.
He looked a little log-legged on Wednesday.
Part of his stellar play over the last 5 games has been the amount of ground he has been covering. (world class against Houston).

Let Cheyrou start and take out the expansion team.

[Cashcleaner]

Right now, the weather forecast is for the rain to stop at noon. 11 degrees.

Gonna be a little wet and chilly. Advantage Toronto. No wait! Fuck! It's Minnesota, they're used to it more than we are. :D

Anyway, we're top of the table now and I CAN'T BELIEVE I JUST TYPED THAT - AND IT'S TRUE!!! Errrr, I mean, we're top of table but have played more games than most other clubs, so our position is a bit skewed. 3 points on Saturday should help solidify things, though!

Having Seba back is obviously going to help. I like the notion of bringing Ricketts in for Altidore later on in the 2nd half. Looking forward to the game tomorrow. I've been busting my ass renovating the home here in Oshawa and haven't been keeping as up-to-date as I like, but really pumped for the match!

[Eleven]

Hang on, hang on....

The Twonies play after the Loons?

https://youtu.be/KC5XCX6Cgz8KC5XCX6Cgz8

[MightyDM]

Jozy and Bradley to sit. Ricketts, Delgado, Cheyrou, Edwards deserve to start, chapman deserves minutes but plays in the same position as Vasquez.

so Gio Ricketts (Hamilton 65 mins) Vasquez (Chapman) Delgado Cheyrou Edwards Morrow Mavinga Haggs Zavaleta Beitashour Irwin (for rotation)

[OgtheDim]

Does anyone know what kinds of hats they sell at the game and some price ranges? Thanks!

Apparently its BOGO day

https://www.torontofc.ca/matchday-guide

[jloome]

Vanney needs to sit Bradley.

Keep Chapman in there. Let's give Marky a full game. He has earned it.

I'll be surprised if he ever sits willingly.

[Richard]

Its a long season I would give Bradley a breather too.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

TFC win by 2 goals
(Final score: 2-0 or 3-1) ........ 47%

TFC win by 1 goal
(Final score: 1-0 or 2-1) ........ 29%

TFC win by 3 goals
(Final score: 3-0 or 4-1) ........ 8%

Draw
(Final score: 1-1 or 2-2) ........ 8%

TFC win by 4 goals
(Final score: 4-0 or 5-1) ........ 4%

Minnesota win by 1 goal
(Final score: 1-2) ........ 4%

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Bookmaker Odds:
5 Dimes:

TFC win: -254
Draw: +426
Minnesota win: +754

TFC -1: -155
TFC -1.25: -121
TFC -1.5: +103

OVER 3.5 goals scored: +117
OVER 3.25 goals scored: -112
OVER 3 goals scored: -143

UNDER 3.5 goals scored: -132
UNDER 3.25 goals scored: -103
UNDER 3 goals scored: +128

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Trap game?
Bookies giving TFC a HUGE favorite.

If I would bet right now this game, I would take TFC -1.25: -121.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

This is part of the reason why the Supporter's Shield doesn't really crown the league champion. They would need much more consistent scheduling than we have in MLS to properly elevate the SS. Why does TFC have two DGWs in a row? It's really ridiculous.

Yeah, the scheduling is apeshit in MLS.
It's ridiculous on so many levels (just think for a quick example that we played the piss-stains 2 times in about 5 weeks!).

Among some other aspects this is one thing MLS needs to seriously change sometime in the future in order to be viewed as a "serious" competition by the European or South American soccer fans.

[Richard]

Yeah, the scheduling is apeshit in MLS.
It's ridiculous on so many levels (just think for a quick example that we played the piss-stains 2 times in about 5 weeks!).

Among some other aspects this is one thing MLS needs to seriously change sometime in the future in order to be viewed as a "serious" competition by the European or South American soccer fans.


Forget them. This is our league. Our style. Our traditions.

I agree about balancing the schedule though.

[Graeme]

--------------------------------Irwin----------------------------------------
--Beitashour--Hagglund--Moor--Mavinga--Edwards--
-------Delgado--Bradley-----Vasquez------
------------Giovinco---Altidore---------

[OgtheDim]

People care about scheduling? Pah....Chelsea plays two games in 3 days to finish off the EPL and nobody gives a darn.

There will be 21K+ there tomorrow.
Support your local. :scarf:

[reggie]

less then 1000 seats remain has of this morning.

[C.Ronaldo]

forget them. This is our league. Our style. Our traditions.

I agree about balancing the schedule though.

usa! Usa! Usa!

[tfcfans]

If anyone is thinking of buying a long sleeve jersey tomorrow - I am as well, so if anyone out there is looking to save some money, maybe we can buy the BOGO together and each save 25% off the cost.

PM me if interested and maybe we can meet in stadium tomorrow before/after the game.

Thanks!

[OgtheDim]

GAME DAY!!!! :scarf:

[CBTFC]

Getting right amped for the match today, and it is pretty much the most ideal conditions for footie. Maybe a bit of sun here and there, 11/12 degrees and maybe a slight breeze.

In this past 2-3 weeks I think the team has really shown the persistence, quality and depth. Not only have we been setting the bar for the franchise, but for the league as a whole. We're doing just fine so far in MLS 3.0 :)

[notthesun]

https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/863453844054966272

Tons of changes. Cooper at RB, Hernandez in, Jozy on the bench, no Vazquez or Chapman starting.

Don't think Vanney thinks very much of Minnesota, looking at this.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Vazquez not starting... that's worries me a little bit.

PS: If anyone finds good streams, let's post them in the thread.

[ag futbol]

This squad roatation is unlike anything I've seen in the past in MLS. It's really something to have so many guys challenging for different positions.

Schedule congestion plays a part for sure but still...

[CBTFC]

The squad rotation is as a result of squad depth, and vice versa. We are blessed to have interchangeable players.

[Ajax TFC]

The quality on the bench tho :jaw:

[PizzaEatingYeti]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkBOyRH58gM

[oldtraffordPEI]

Edwards man...Edwards!

[ensco]

Belting it out for Dichio!

[oldtraffordPEI]

This is one of the strongest performances Ive seen in ages, dominating possession

[notthesun]

Looks like Giovinco's heel is still bothering him, off for Altidore. At least he got his goal first.

edit: Maybe his thigh after all, not the heel. Smart to take him off, no point risking him.

[notthesun]

Bono bailed Edwards out there with that save. Edwards has been awesome going forward again but he got caught trying to do too much there, turnovers when we're pushing up and their attackers are still deep in our end are always dangerous.

[flatpicker]

Very nice control by Toronto.
The depth on this team is impressive.

Surprised by the thin crowd considering the win streak and decent weather.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I get the feeling TFC hasn't pushed at all in this half.
Played very relaxed... but we had almost zero chances, except the penalty.

We MUST get a secod one before the 75th minute, otherwise will be a nailbiter ending again... shit giveaways can get punished any time by Minnesota.

[khso11]

Bono bailed Edwards out there with that save. Edwards has been awesome going forward again but he got caught trying to do too much there, turnovers when we're pushing up and their attackers are still deep in our end are always dangerous.

Poor decision making by Edwards there, Cooper was wide open on the right. But other than that, Edwards played really well today.

[notthesun]

I thought we were missing a little something offensively without Vazquez or Chapman in. I'd like to see one of them come off the bench so we can kill the game off.

[notthesun]

Deserved goal for them. We haven't been good since the 35th minute.

Time to bring on Vazquez IMO.

edit: That was fast. I think that's an own goal. I'll take it but we need to improve to see this out.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Extremely well deserved by Minnesota.
Now wake the fuck up, and play to win TFC!

[tfcfans]

Push forward and look what happens!!!

[Ajax TFC]

Cooper is the most irritating player on this team

[tfcfans]

Just awful......we deserve this result....you don't push forward you don't win.....

[ag futbol]

That's a ridiculous call. On a bang-bang play like that with the arm in a natural position...

Then again, Mavinga mugged their defender on the far post on the last TFC goal.

[notthesun]

Fucking Cooper. Dribbling on our own fucking end line under pressure, gives up a corner and they score a penalty.

You boot that shit out for a throw in and reset the defense every time. He's so god damn frustrating sometimes, tries to do too much way too often.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

It will be out of science fiction if we can win this game.
I'ts all f.......cked up, we haven't played good at all, plus the injuries too.

[ag futbol]

Fucking Cooper. Dribbling on our own fucking end line under pressure, gives up a corner and they score a penalty.

You boot that shit out for a throw in and reset the defense every time. He's so god damn frustrating sometimes, tries to do too much way too often.
Agreed. Forget a 1-touch or 2-touch player. Cooper is like a 6 touch player. Losing all patience for this guy.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Cooper was shit all game long. Always slowing down play, dribbling for nothing, than if not losing the ball giving sideways or back passes.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

This is what Cooper does 80% of the time!!!!
Fuck off!

[Ajax TFC]

Fucking Cooper. Dribbling on our own fucking end line under pressure, gives up a corner and they score a penalty.

You boot that shit out for a throw in and reset the defense every time. He's so god damn frustrating sometimes, tries to do too much way too often.
Not to mention that they were playing a man down and needed a stoppage anyways to get Morrow in

[Inklink]

Does Bradley know how to kick a football on goal?

[Richard]

Altidore should have scored.

[Ajax TFC]

Ricketts is the shit

[Inklink]

Rickyyyyyy

[notthesun]

Let's go Jozy!!!! What an effort! And Ricketts come up big again.

[ag futbol]

Altidore is clearly dead tired and still made that happen. He's been unbelievably good this season.

[Shakes McQueen]

It just dawned on me that Seba took a penalty to a different part of the net, I think for the first time ever? He booted that one right down the middle, instead of his usual corner.

[tfcfans]

Great play by Jozy!!!

[ag futbol]

Allan Chapman is shit

[Ajax TFC]

Cooper is Jackson2.0 minus the red card tackles

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Jesus Christ, why the fuck can't Cooper EVER release the ball in time?????????

[ag futbol]

Arrrg I swear unless Cooper walks the ball into the net while doing 15 feigns and 2 dozen stopovers nothing positive will ever happen.

[ag futbol]

This ref is clueless. There have been numerous subs and injuries and goals with only 3 added minutes ... but I'll take it as a TFC fan

[Ajax TFC]

Arrrg I swear unless Cooper walks the ball into the net while doing 15 feigns and 2 dozen stopovers nothing positive will ever happen.
Except he's more likely to feign and step-over the ball into his own net

[notthesun]

Crazy game, we somehow, some way got over the line. This could have been a loss, draw, multiple goal win... what a game.

This schedule really did a number on us, I think it came back to bite us a lot today. Bunch of guys getting injured, guys looking tired... gutsy to come away with a win here.

[jloome]

Except he's more likely to feign and step-over the ball into his own net

he's actually pretty dangerous at everything except the final ball. Always holds on too long.

That move that got him into the box on the endline was fucking smooth.

They can fix his shit yet.

Anyway, six in a row. Supporters shield (the real deal) starting to look like a distinct possibility.

[bones]

Quote of the day "...and Cooper gives the ball away..."

Just enough to win today. Well deserved rest.

[oldtraffordPEI]

I like this team

[ag futbol]

he's actually pretty dangerous at everything except the final ball. Always holds on too long.

That move that got him into the box on the endline was fucking smooth.

They can fix his shit yet.

Anyway, six in a row. Supporters shield (the real deal) starting to look like a distinct possibility.
In the positions we have him playing he needs to pass the ball on within 2-3 touches 75% of the time. He just seems oblivious out there taking so many touches as defenders surround him and dispossess him of the ball.

[Shakes McQueen]

The boys finally get almost a week of rest, before we get to do this shit all over again, with four games in 12 days.

[ag futbol]

I feel in a game where both Altidore and Giovinco aren't up top you need one of Chapman or Vasquez in the midfield. Ricketts has proven useful but his holdup and combination play is basically nil. Someone from midfield has to find our forwards and it makes it easier when it's not just Edwards doing it or Cheyrou who has to venture really far forward.

Anyway, character win for sure. The gap in quality was obvious for stretches of the match. These guys badly need some rest and if we didn't have this deep team I'd be foaming at the mouth pissed with MLS for giving us this stupid schedule which has worn down a lot of players.

[General Woolfe]

Well that was a bit of a rollercoaster...

You have to admire the team's dig to pull out a win there, but I think ive had it with experimentation with the line up and all this talk about our depth. Lets get back to fielding our strongest 11 every game. Defensively that was a bit of a disaster today and im sure a lot had to do with unfamiliarity. Having said that it doesnt look like were going to get the opportunity to go back our best 11 with Seba, Hagglund and Bono all picking up injuries. However, lets go with the best 11 available. For example, I thought we really missed Vazquez today. (Yes, Im finally a believer!!) He really has made the role of provider his own and we struggled today when he wasnt there. By all means pull him after the hour if you feel he needs a rest, but he has to be in the starting line up if we are to realize our potential.

Anyway, rant over. Im grateful for the three points, to keep the run going, and most importantly, stretch that lead atop the East and SS standings. Onwards and upwards!!! :scarf:

[Shakes McQueen]

I feel in a game where both Altidore and Giovinco aren't up top you need one of Chapman or Vasquez in the midfield. Ricketts has proven useful but his holdup and combination play is basically nil. Someone from midfield has to find our forwards and it makes it easier when it's not just Edwards doing it or Cheyrou who has to venture really far forward.

Anyway, character win for sure. The gap in quality was obvious for stretches of the match. These guys badly need some rest and if we didn't have this deep team I'd be foaming at the mouth pissed with MLS for giving us this stupid schedule which has worn down a lot of players.

As of this moment, we've played FOUR more league games than Dallas. That's ridiculous scheduling.

They might be happy for the rest later in the season, but that isn't going to matter much if we've run guys into the ground by that point.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Good this is over!
Deserved win for tFC for the maybe 35-40% of game they played focused and good.
The other remaining periods they were utter shit. Yeah, I know, there were those injuries, but that does not excuses anything.

The last 3 days all we heard from Vanney and the players is how ready they are for this play, how much they respect Minnesota, bla, bla, bla....
Really? The play have not reflected at all this readyness.
They played as expected only when with their back at the wall, in danger of losing 2 points.

---------------------

Until now I wasn't against Cooper, always because I considered him a colorful player with great technical quality.
From today though the anti-Cooper voices in here gained another member.

Damn, Vanney must be out of his mind if he'll start Cooper in the next 3 games.
This guy most of the time is a bottomless black hole, his decision making is incredibly bad.

[notthesun]

Have to add, Mavinga was our best defender today. He's turning it around after a slow start.

[samuraizero]

I disagree on mavinga, I still think he's quite mediocre.

On cooper though... If we have homegrowns for a third the cost who consistently outplay someone considered a DG that's a problem.

Its time to bench him and trade him away later.

[Ajax TFC]

he's actually pretty dangerous at everything except the final ball. Always holds on too long.

That move that got him into the box on the endline was fucking smooth.

They can fix his shit yet.

Anyway, six in a row. Supporters shield (the real deal) starting to look like a distinct possibility.
A player who can dribble through 3 opposing players in the attacking zone is dangerous. A player who tries to do that in central midfield, or worse, his own end line, is hazardous.

He can maybe be useful as a winger in a 4-3-3, but unfortunately the only wingers we play with need to be able to defend. His lack of situational awareness makes him a liability in his own half and I can't see how they fix that. I see his potential being limited to being a limited roll player that plugs in in games where space is limited

[Ajax TFC]

It has to be said that Minnesota beat themselves here. Holy shit, their attackers couldn't hit the side of a barn with a sawed-off from 5 feet away.

[CBTFC]

This is definitely a game that if it would've ended 2-2, I REALLY would've been disappointed. We seemed to have crazy amounts of possession in the first half but weren't doing anything with it.

Edwards was a real spark as usual down the left, and then once we had Jozy and Vasquez on if felt like we were really creating chances. Jozy was FULL ON BEAST MODE on that game winning goal, and Ricketts climbed to the heavens to get it in.

As others have mentioned, great teams find a way to win even when they might not deserve to. Today was another one of those days.

6 wins a row! woo hoo.

[69Chevy396]

A player who can dribble through 3 opposing players in the attacking zone is dangerous. A player who tries to do that in central midfield, or worse, his own end line, is hazardous.

He can maybe be useful as a winger in a 4-3-3, but unfortunately the only wingers we play with need to be able to defend. His lack of situational awareness makes him a liability in his own half and I can't see how they fix that. I see his potential being limited to being a limited roll player that plugs in in games where space is limited
great result considering such a sloppy performance. Never witnessed Bradley giving the ball away so much, particularly in the first half. However, I agree with the anti Cooper sentiment. He waits too long, and usually loses the ball or makes a bad final pass. Edwards is already so much better.

[CBTFC]

Have to add, Mavinga was our best defender today. He's turning it around after a slow start.

I disagree on mavinga, I still think he's quite mediocre.


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C_vW2s2VoAAlFaK.jpg

[OgtheDim]

Monday morning all I'm going to remember is that 3rd goal.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

So many people talking before this one that is a trap game... even well before we had that lucky win at Columbus.
Guess what?
It WAS a trap game!

[Gringo Starr]

It's a sign of a good team that even when you have a subpar game you find a way to win. This is shaping up to be a special season.

If we hit 9 wins in a row we should fly in Danny K declare this the best team in the world.

deep team I'm wondering who our best 11 are

[James17930]

Just got up and watched the highlights – I was having fits throughout that only 4 minutes ... I can't imagine what it must've been like to watch this one live. Thank Zeus they pulled it off.

And now they still only get a week until the next game. Brutal scheduling. Is this because of the Gold Cup?

[Oldtimer]

I disagree about the referee.


We complain about MLS refs constantly, and often don't notice when they do a good job.

Allen Chapman missed a few, but got a lot of calls right that most refs miss. He had a very good game overall.

He's not responsible for time keeping, that's the fourth official.

[James17930]

We complain about MLS refs constantly, and often don't notice when they do a good job.

Allen Chapman missed a few, but got a lot of calls right that most refs miss. He had a very good game overall.

That penalty against us was pretty weak, though. I mean, yeah, Edwards had his arm slightly raised, but he wasn't even looking toward the play when it hit him. Pretty good case for ball-to-hand there.

And apparently Hernandez just had food poisoning, so that won't affect him for the next game.

The injuries are starting – hopefully nothing is too serious.

[Oldtimer]

That penalty against us was pretty weak, though. I mean, yeah, Edwards had his arm slightly raised, but he wasn't even looking toward the play when it hit him. Pretty good case for ball-to-hand there.

True about the one call. I still think the refereeing was good overall.

[Davenport]

Mavinga was very solid today. He marked his forward very well, always getting his foot in, and scored a deserved goal. Delgado is lightweight and Cooper is an embarrassment - no disrespect to girls, but he runs, plays and acts like a big one. We need to be better than that. Edwards is a star in the making.

[backbeat]

i love that we had to find a way to grind it out for 3

and we did

Edwards continues to impress - Mavinga was solid & Jozy is a beast

subs due to injuries & we still make it work - but what subs we have...

so many games with major travel in such a short timeline and we still found maximum points

this IS a VERY good team

and best of all, they're MY team

love it...

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/RussellPhotos/status/863515412604096512


That first photo is...remarkable.


**********

I could talk about Cooper but its all been said already. I spent a good chunk of the day agreeing with the pregnant lady beside me about him.

The only thing I would add to all this is we require 1 of Vasquez, Chapman or Osorio to link between the mids and the forwards. 2 of them together doesn't work. But 1 and we are a very different team.

[TFC_4_Life]

6 wins in a row, squad depth, Rahim on the rise. I don't think I've ever been more excited for TFC's future than right now.

Mavinga was improved but still had a few moments of bad positioning in dangerous areas. He has not yet won a starting spot but deserves some minutes. I would play him in Canadian Championship.
Cooper has a lot of ball skill. But is not applying it properly. If he could just get his head up and be capable of 1-3 touch passing he would be an asset. Top right in a 4-3-3 would probably be his most useful spot on the pitch, which we don't play. If he doesn't adjust by the trade deadline to our style of play I would think he would have good trade value. I am still hoping he can adjust to TFC's formation and work with our team.

[pawlukj]

I felt like this game was extra dirty. They added some extra time which was nice, but in general it was one of the best games I have ever seen. I thought Rickets (sp)? was by far the best, but they can work on passing patterns, and retaining midfield a bit. Great job to them all. Sincerely, Jay

[UpTheReds]

We've played 5 games in 15 days. Anyone slagging off the team right now is being a tad unreasonable in my opinion. The last 2 games haven't been pretty but with the squad rotation and players being heavily taxed during this period, I think you have to look it as whole and applaud them for taking maximum points.

[ManUtd4ever]

Altidore is a beast. I think he is the most dominant striker in club history.

[69Chevy396]

https://twitter.com/RussellPhotos/status/863515412604096512


That first photo is...remarkable.


**********

I could talk about Cooper but its all been said already. I spent a good chunk of the day agreeing with the pregnant lady beside me about him.

The only thing I would add to all this is we require 1 of Vasquez, Chapman or Osorio to link between the mids and the forwards. 2 of them together doesn't work. But 1 and we are a very different team.
Osorio has dropped so far down the depth chart, he may not play again for some time

[Cashcleaner]

Edwards. That guy is a potential superstar if he starts thinking more tactically and develop his mind for the game. He has so much of the physical game already down.

[C.Ronaldo]

Osorio has dropped so far down the depth chart, he may not play again for some time

i done with cooper, i dont want to see him start again

he is where plays go to die

[OgtheDim]

FYI

Osorio is out with an elevated heart beat - announced after the game. Likely to see a specialist this week. He would have started in Columbus.

[khso11]

What is up with Cooper, he completely changed his game compared to last year. Why make so many useless dribbles, did he not notice he's not going to draw fouls every single time he touches the ball?

[flatpicker]

As of this moment, we've played FOUR more league games than Dallas. That's ridiculous scheduling.

Yeah. Now would be a good time for FCD to start losing some games.

[OgtheDim]

What is up with Cooper, he completely changed his game compared to last year. Why make so many useless dribbles, did he not notice he's not going to draw fouls every single time he touches the ball?

I think you got it right. He's not the same player.

A possible contributing factor - guy has a new baby. There was a pic today of him bringing in a baby carrier. Not enough to account for the bad habits but put it together with a new contract and maybe something else and there you have it.

He's not a starter right now I think. I would be surprised if he starts in Jersey.

[Hamilton_Red]

What is up with Cooper, he completely changed his game compared to last year. Why make so many useless dribbles, did he not notice he's not going to draw fouls every single time he touches the ball?

Yep - he has really gone backwards. Seemed like 90% of posters thought he was an upgrade over Johnson. He's not even close.

[reggie]

we won 6 in a row and people are nitpicking about a player,com on man

[reggie]

Yep - he has really gone backwards. Seemed like 90% of posters thought he was an upgrade over Johnson. He's not even close.
Not at 450 k a year.

[PopePouri]

Yep - he has really gone backwards. Seemed like 90% of posters thought he was an upgrade over Johnson. He's not even close.

Sure. But Johnson can only play one position and costs double.

I actually think the problems with Cooper are teachable. Maybe it's just habit in Panama but Vanney can just say to release the ball earlier or you'll get dropped.

[Detroit_TFC]

Bono continues to come up with some incredible, thrilling saves. I find it very enjoyable watching him improve and live up to the original hype surrounding his entry to the league.

[Thomas]

In my section, you don't hear a word when Gio or Bradley makes a bad pass (many in this game), but as soon as Cooper has the ball the complaints start. I wouldn't write him off yet.


Bono continues to come up with some incredible, thrilling saves. I find it very enjoyable watching him improve and live up to the original hype surrounding his entry to the league.

[SirBobSaget]

In my section, you don't hear a word when Gio or Bradley makes a bad pass (many in this game), but as soon as Cooper has the ball the complaints start. I wouldn't write him off yet.

Can you point out 1 good offensive pass from Cooper? He would beat his man to make room for a cross, instead of getting the ball in would try to beat his man again, sometimes was again successful, so .... would try to beat the 2nd and 3rd guys that came in to crowd him out. i'm not exaggerating this happened 8-10 this game. On the best occasion he won a corner.

All good offense was generated on the left side. The worst of all was when cooper was trying to dance around 2 along the TFC goal line. Ended up giving up the corner that led to the 2nd PK.

We wont be seeing Cooper starting a meaningful game anytime soon.

[PAOK17]

Can you point out 1 good offensive pass from Cooper? He would beat his man to make room for a cross, instead of getting the ball in would try to beat his man again, sometimes was again successful, so .... would try to beat the 2nd and 3rd guys that came in to crowd him out. i'm not exaggerating this happened 8-10 this game. On the best occasion he won a corner.

All good offense was generated on the left side. The worst of all was when cooper was trying to dance around 2 along the TFC goal line. Ended up giving up the corner that led to the 2nd PK.

We wont be seeing Cooper starting a meaningful game anytime soon.This right here! I swear he will one day find himself on a break away with an open net and instead of shooting into the open net, he'll turn around and dribble towards a defender. It's almost like he has no clue what to do other than try to dribble passed a defender.

For those who think that this is something we're seeing only this year, take a look at video from last year. He did it then as well. It's why I was indifferent on whether we'd keep him going into this season.

[dupont]

Great game! That isn't even close to how good TFC is but after that tough schedule, what can you expect? Six wins in a row. What a team!

[khso11]

I think you got it right. He's not the same player.

A possible contributing factor - guy has a new baby. There was a pic today of him bringing in a baby carrier. Not enough to account for the bad habits but put it together with a new contract and maybe something else and there you have it.

He's not a starter right now I think. I would be surprised if he starts in Jersey.

That's a good point about his new baby. But many people won't know/care because he's a professional and he knows it. He won't start in Jersey unless there're more injuries. He is staying on the bench until he proves he can play when the opportunity comes, and he better make this change quick before the summer transfer window. I think everything is in his head though.

[khso11]

Yep - he has really gone backwards. Seemed like 90% of posters thought he was an upgrade over Johnson. He's not even close.

Have to admit, I am part of the 90%. But then again the salary, the chemistry, the style, the contribution is different between the 2 players, I wished we could've kept both. Personally, I'll give him a bit more time for him to prove that he's worth it, but it all depends when the opportunity comes.

[marquis]

Same here, I think Cooper is a clear upgrade over Johnson. Sure, he's in a bit of a funk right now, but last year he played a key part in the team's playoff run. All players go through some rough periods, they just need some time. The best example is Jozy.
I say hold the pitchforks for now.

[OgtheDim]

Johnson is Orlando's Bradley. He's the captain when Kaka is out and when there are changes to be made in formation, the message comes in to Johnson, not Kaka.

He wasn't going to stay here. This is good for the CANMNT who REALLY should be building the Gold Cup team around him and Larin.


**********

A few other notes from the game:

The ref not only called a foul throw, he called a foul kick off. I was impressed.
Hagglund looked gassed in the first half. Hope he's not out long but he needed a day off.
Different atmosphere for this one in the West. A lot more like October last year. Like all the actual SSH's could make this game. (A TFC chant started there and got taken up by the Kings.)
Jozy now on 4 yellows. NYRB will know this and go at him all game long.

[mistercorporate]

Can you point out 1 good offensive pass from Cooper? He would beat his man to make room for a cross, instead of getting the ball in would try to beat his man again, sometimes was again successful, so .... would try to beat the 2nd and 3rd guys that came in to crowd him out. i'm not exaggerating this happened 8-10 this game. On the best occasion he won a corner.

All good offense was generated on the left side. The worst of all was when cooper was trying to dance around 2 along the TFC goal line. Ended up giving up the corner that led to the 2nd PK.

We wont be seeing Cooper starting a meaningful game anytime soon.

Inshallah!!

[Red CB Toronto]

Just love this pic of Raheem The Dream from yesterday. What a game he had.

https://scontent.fyto1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t34.0-12/18492666_10158719808285204_1122200380_n.jpg?oh=c69 01b3325944586ef4f853afad31f0c&oe=591A7DF2

[InSuL1nImP]

IMO. I notice a few things about Cooper's game. Firstly he has not been in MLS long enough to get a hold of the style of play in this league. He has not realized that a few too many dribbles or fancy footwork will do you no good in this league. Most times he keeps his head down with the ball therefore he is not able to create a play or see the play forming around him. He is surrounded by world class players in Gio, Bradley, Jozy, Vazquez etc.... he needs to realize he doesn't need to try and be a hero every game and accept what is expected of him.

[OgtheDim]

Funny thing is, Cooper doesn't play like this for Panama, where he starts most matches.

[GuelphStorm2007]

6 in a row awesome we have great depth You can tell TFC in some stretches looked the tired team hell playing 4 games in 11 days plus traveling form east to west and back is not easy and having to play 2 Wednesday games in a row is dumb . But they managed and that is good Glad to see both Canadians IN Ricketts and Edwards being major contributers is special:scarf:

[PawTar711]

Great jobs to Rowan Ricketts, he did very well. I thought he took the ball up the right wing alot, however, maybe you guys should pass a little better from time to time depending on where you guys are inside the box, there were occasions where I thought through balls could be short balls, and short balls could of went to other players. In the future, I hope for a bit better, but overall, I think that Rowan Ricketts was man of the match, and we need to keep it up with him and Giovinco coming back it should be good, and all other players like Delgado and Michael Bradley should do fine too. Sincerely, Jay

[Brooker]

Rohan Ricketts! What year am I in. I love it. Was he in 112 again?

[shwade]

Lol wtf

[Canary10]

I take back my early comments about Vazquez. He's quite a useful player. But, Edwards has really changed the look of this team. He still has a lot to learn and you can see it a times, but he's been the biggest difference. Our offense is all starting from him. Amazing!

[C.Ronaldo]

I take back my early comments about Vazquez. He's quite a useful player. But, Edwards has really changed the look of this team. He still has a lot to learn and you can see it a times, but he's been the biggest difference. Our offense is all starting from him. Amazing!

ball moves fwd 90% of the time with edwards. It keeps the opposing team on their toes and making mistakes

canada cup...osorio , edwards, chapman, and hamilton to finish

Im excited to see the passing sequences

[Fort York Redcoat]

Great jobs to Rowan Ricketts, he did very well. I thought he took the ball up the right wing alot, however, maybe you guys should pass a little better from time to time depending on where you guys are inside the box, there were occasions where I thought through balls could be short balls, and short balls could of went to other players. In the future, I hope for a bit better, but overall, I think that Rowan Ricketts was man of the match, and we need to keep it up with him and Giovinco coming back it should be good, and all other players like Delgado and Michael Bradley should do fine too. Sincerely, Jay

Paw, it's Tosaint. Or Tos.

Rowan was a while back.

[Canary10]

Paw, it's Tosaint. Or Tos.

Rowan was a while back.

There have been a lot of Ricketts on this team though. I understand how he could be confused. And wasn't it Rohan?

[Fort York Redcoat]

There have been a lot of Ricketts on this team though. I understand how he could be confused. And wasn't it Rohan?

Yup.

[Section_105]

There have been a lot of Ricketts on this team though. I understand how he could be confused. And wasn't it Rohan?

Mr. Puma Boots from JMT Metrosports himself! he was fun. Tos is the real deal.

[Section_105]

I really hope Hagglund is alright. The hit from Bono happened right in front of me and I almost threw up with how far his knee bent in. I was shocked when he stood up and even more so when he tried to play on. Hopefully it's just a strain that will tighten up and heal in a few weeks. Come on MRI!

[SirBobSaget]

I really hope Hagglund is alright. The hit from Bono happened right in front of me and I almost threw up with how far his knee bent in. I was shocked when he stood up and even more so when he tried to play on. Hopefully it's just a strain that will tighten up and heal in a few weeks. Come on MRI!

Not sure what the heck Bono was thinking. Was an easy catch that he didn't move on quick enough then launched himself into Hagglund who was standing still waiting for Bono to claim.

Stupid Bono:
Toronto FC defender Nick Hagglund has been diagnosed with a torn MCL in his left knee. The injury occurred in the second half of Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Minnesota United FC. Hagglund is expected to be out of the line-up for 8-12 weeks.

[Section_105]

Not sure what the heck Bono was thinking. Was an easy catch that he didn't move on quick enough then launched himself into Hagglund who was standing still waiting for Bono to claim.

Stupid Bono:
Toronto FC defender Nick Hagglund has been diagnosed with a torn MCL in his left knee. The injury occurred in the second half of Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Minnesota United FC. Hagglund is expected to be out of the line-up for 8-12 weeks.




Fuck. but better than an ACL/PCL which would have been a year.

Bono is hurt as well which hasn't been confirmed yet. Tweeked his hamstring on a few late kicks down field so hopefully it was just tightness and won't keep him out for long.

[TFC Tifoso]

Mr. Puma Boots from JMT Metrosports himself! he was fun. Tos is the real deal.

must be the shoes.......

[TFC Tifoso]

Not sure what the heck Bono was thinking. Was an easy catch that he didn't move on quick enough then launched himself into Hagglund who was standing still waiting for Bono to claim.

Stupid Bono:
Toronto FC defender Nick Hagglund has been diagnosed with a torn MCL in his left knee. The injury occurred in the second half of Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Minnesota United FC. Hagglund is expected to be out of the line-up for 8-12 weeks.




Can't blame Bono.....he came out to claim the ball and that's what you want your keeper to do.....wrong place, wrong time for Hagglund....hate to see him out though, he's having a great season.....

[C.Ronaldo]

aint that how it always is

Hagglund's chance to shine taken away

depth will have to be our top weapon in 2017

[Oldtimer]

There have been a lot of Ricketts on this team though. I understand how he could be confused.

Also, to make it even more confusing, they are both attacking players, play a similar style, and we've even recycled the Rohan chant for Tos.

[TFC Tifoso]

Also, to make it even more confusing, they are both attacking players, play a similar style, and we've even recycled the Rohan chant for Tos.

but the biggest difference of the 2 and the best way to tell them apart.....

one was a glorified Twitter user who dressed up in a soccer kit once a week or so....

and the other actually plays soccer like he enjoys it.....good thing he's on our side lol....

I gotta say, i was VERY skeptical when we signed Tos, but he has been huge when called upon....great pick up for us.....

[Section_105]

Also, to make it even more confusing, they are both attacking players, play a similar style, and we've even recycled the Rohan chant for Tos.

and we've had two Julio Cesars.....one of them never saw the pitch in anger but he was on the books for a while. ......and Abbe and Abdus Ibrahim's.....it's tough to be a TFC fan sometimes when your dealing with thousands for former players. (okay, hundreds.)

[C.Ronaldo]

but the biggest difference of the 2 and the best way to tell them apart.....

one was a glorified Twitter user who dressed up in a soccer kit once a week or so....

and the other actually plays soccer like he enjoys it.....good thing he's on our side lol....

I gotta say, i was VERY skeptical when we signed Tos, but he has been huge when called upon....great pick up for us.....

his aerial threat was something we needed

He gets up their like Ronaldo.

[General Woolfe]

Not sure what the heck Bono was thinking. Was an easy catch that he didn't move on quick enough then launched himself into Hagglund who was standing still waiting for Bono to claim.

Stupid Bono:
Toronto FC defender Nick Hagglund has been diagnosed with a torn MCL in his left knee. The injury occurred in the second half of Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Minnesota United FC. Hagglund is expected to be out of the line-up for 8-12 weeks.





Fuck. but better than an ACL/PCL which would have been a year.

Bono is hurt as well which hasn't been confirmed yet. Tweeked his hamstring on a few late kicks down field so hopefully it was just tightness and won't keep him out for long.
I had a nasty feeling when Vanney was talking up our depth recently. Knowing our luck it seemed inevitable that statement would come back and bite us

[Brooker]

must be the shoes.......

http://replygif.net/i/688.gif

[Fort York Redcoat]

Also, to make it even more confusing, they are both attacking players, play a similar style, and we've even recycled the Rohan chant for Tos.


but the biggest difference of the 2 and the best way to tell them apart.....

one was a glorified Twitter user who dressed up in a soccer kit once a week or so....

and the other actually plays soccer like he enjoys it.....good thing he's on our side lol....

I gotta say, i was VERY skeptical when we signed Tos, but he has been huge when called upon....great pick up for us.....

Well if one needs to tell them apart one can always use the Voyageur chant when he plays for Canada. I know I've sung it at TFC with a couple people.

He scores from the left...
he scores from the riii iiii iiight..
Tosaint Ricketts
makes Messi look shite.;)

[TFC Tifoso]

Well if one needs to tell them apart one can always use the Voyageur chant when he plays for Canada. I know I've sung it at TFC with a couple people.

He scores from the left...
he scores from the riii iiii iiight..
Tosaint Ricketts
makes Messi look shite.;)

I know this one and like it a lot, just for the sheer lunacy of it lol......I've sung this at TFC as well....always gets a chuckle from the people around lol.....