Match Day 31 - Colorado @ TFC Sunday Sept 15 5pm - Its only at the turning point

[OgtheDim]

That you find out how you Fight


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CB0jVH4V10


******

Have at It People

[OgtheDim]

For anybody interested, Colorado is on TSN5 right now at home against LAGalaxy.


The Rapids have been a playoff pace team since they ditched their coach back in May. This will not be easy. We should hope for 3 points - we need to win games like this. But, this is a real potential banana skin.

[Canary10]

For anybody interested, Colorado is on TSN5 right now at home against LAGalaxy.


The Rapids have been a playoff pace team since they ditched their coach back in May. This will not be easy. We should hope for 3 points - we need to win games like this. But, this is a real potential banana skin.

Yeah I agree. Especially with Robin Fraser coaching them now. He knows a thing or two about us.

[pfk]

The Rapids have won three in a row. Including beating the Galaxy at home last night (although it looked like LA should have been awarded a PK in extra time to potentially tie it up).

Regardless, we need to win this game and every game hereafter (except for the LAFC game, I'm thinking that won't be easy).

[Mikmacdo]

This will be a tough game to win.

Gk westburg
Laryea-omar-mavinga-auro
Delgado-bradley-pozuelo
Endoh-jozy-benezet

Deleon is banged up with a sports hernia and torn labrum. Save him as a sub.

[ensco]

They have had a nice run but Colorado has only 36 points, they have nothing to play for, no shot at the playoffs.

On the other hand, this is really a must game for us.

This is also a long trip for them, on short rest.

I am not afraid to say I am expecting full points here.

[Oldtimer]

Yeah I agree. Especially with Robin Fraser coaching them now. He knows a thing or two about us.

Robin Fraser said in an interview that he learned a lot from Vanney.

[magmadragon]

Rapids players will be playing for contracts for next year. Fraser will have some pride at stake and knows us inside and out. Months ago I had this one as a cakewalk, but Fraser has them firing on all cylinders. This has trap game written all over it.

[Ultra & Proud]

This one won't be as straight forward as it would have been a month ago but if we want to be a legit playoff team then we have to handle business at home no matter the opposition.

[DinamoTFC]

Every game is a playoff game now. Everything leads to momentum. There no more excuses anymore. We've used excuses for a long time now. It's time to deliver, no less.

[CBTFC]

6 game league unbeaten streak, 4th in the conference and just surpassed 50 goals scored for the 5th straight season.

I believe, do you? :scarf::flare::drum:

[DinamoTFC]

Yes, the improvement game by game is evident.

[stevep]

can we do a poll? Caldwell or Dunfield?

[woolly]

Mark me down for Dunfield.

[Mikmacdo]

Dunfield is 100 percent better than caldwell.

[ensco]

I am excited for this one. It's big. A true fan's treat. Classic statement game.

If a Seattle 2016 style run is going to happen, it gets into gear here.

Nice weather forecast btw.

[stevep]

Dunfield, not even close

[Super]

Colorado is 7 pts out of the playoffs, and they've played a game more than 8th placed FC Dallas. I think we can officially call them out of the play-offs. 3pts for us!

[Chubbs]

Dunfield, not even close

Dunfield > Caldwell > Wheeler.

Watching games on OneSoccer is about as painful as it gets from a commentary perspective.

[ag futbol]

Watching games on OneSoccer is about as painful as it gets from a commentary perspective.
Soccer, with a hint of surfer bro

[Mikmacdo]

Dunfield > Caldwell > Wheeler.

Watching games on OneSoccer is about as painful as it gets from a commentary perspective.I agree Wheeler sucks but hes a play by play guy not a colour commentator to be fair.

[OgtheDim]

I am excited for this one. It's big. A true fan's treat. Classic statement game.

If a Seattle 2016 style run is going to happen, it gets into gear here.

Nice weather forecast btw.

Added herbs to the broth - Clint Irwin gonna start as Howard is out injured.

[Bobo]

This is massive for Vanney. If he gets out-coached by his ex-assistant, it'll be an awful look in the eyes of Manning and Co.

Colorado has been a pretty bad away team this season, but not sure how much that matters right now.

[magmadragon]

I imagine it'll be Caldwell. He was away with CMNT. Seems he has a trainer gig with them.

[DinamoTFC]

Dunfield

[Blkndkr]

Dunfield by a country mile. Caldwell = zero qwality.

[nfitz]

Anyone who takes TTC to the game, beware. Exhibition (and Union) streetcar loops are closed this weekend. 509 is buses only, with an interesting downtown loop, and somehow looping beside BMO Field (which will surely be a mess close to game time). With 511 streetcars short-turning at Fleet Loop (that lighthouse).

This doesn't seem to have been well communicated! Probably a good day to take GO - or the Dufferin bus, Ossington bus, or 504B King streetcars to Dufferin Gate.

https://twitter.com/TTChelps/status/1172836159451537408

[Defoe]

This will be a tough game to win.

Gk westburg
Laryea-omar-mavinga-auro
Delgado-bradley-pozuelo
Endoh-jozy-benezet

Deleon is banged up with a sports hernia and torn labrum. Save him as a sub.

Yes he can rest, he put in a lot of minutes this year and really held it down while we waited on Gallardo and Benezet. Where would we be without him and his 6 goals maybe not even in a playoff spot

[OgtheDim]

The news out of Chicago made this game now even more important.

They have new ownership (who has been around all season with his 49% ownership stake so he's not going into next year blind).
They are moving back to Soldier Field.
Everybody from the President on down is fighting for their job.
They thumped Dallas this week and FWIW, the players gave the new owner the game ball.
They are motivated as stink suddenly.

Chicago plays Cinci next week - we play LAFC.

Without a win against Colorado, we could be going to Chicago only up on them by 1 point.

Tomorrow is a must win- without it, we could very easily be going into the last Columbus game needing to win & get help to secure a playoff spot.

[NK Toronto]

Anyone know what happened to the KJ and Caldwell podcast? Last episode was July 8th. Was it cancelled?

[OgtheDim]

Anyone know what happened to the KJ and Caldwell podcast? Last episode was July 8th. Was it cancelled?

Saw a note from KJ that it was not being worked on right now due to scheduling but they are going to bring it back - so who knows..

[NK Toronto]

Thanks for the update. I hope they bring it back. Find it entertaining.

[OgtheDim]

TTC running shuttle buses from Union to the Ex today as the loop/tunnel out of Union is being closed for maintenance.

[nfitz]

TTC running shuttle buses from Union to the Ex today as the loop/tunnel out of Union is being closed for maintenance.Exhibition Loop is also closed today, so the Bathurst streetcar (511) is stopping at Fleet loop (the lighthouse).

Once the roads around BMO Field close for the game, the Union shuttle buses (509) will be stopping at Princes' Gates Loop (Canada Loop) instead of Exhibition Loop.

There's nothing about this on the TTC's website - I don't know what they are thinking. And who knows how this plan might change by game time.

https://twitter.com/TTChelps/status/1172927931317968903

[Derko]

The news out of Chicago made this game now even more important.

They have new ownership (who has been around all season with his 49% ownership stake so he's not going into next year blind).
They are moving back to Soldier Field.
Everybody from the President on down is fighting for their job.
They thumped Dallas this week and FWIW, the players gave the new owner the game ball.
They are motivated as stink suddenly.

Chicago plays Cinci next week - we play LAFC.

Without a win against Colorado, we could be going to Chicago only up on them by 1 point.

Tomorrow is a must win- without it, we could very easily be going into the last Columbus game needing to win & get help to secure a playoff spot.

Now why can't TFC get motivated for a game :facepalm:

[MightyDM]

Line posted shortly. Hoping Gallardo gets a rest and we see the Shaff, Oso, Lareya. Something like Laryea OG Mavinga Morgan Bradley Delgado Oso Poz Shaff Jozy

[Graeme]

I hope Morrow is back. He was on fire his last couple of games in the current formation.

[Auzzy]

Lineup posted. Der Schaffner not even on the bench?

[Auzzy]

I hope Morrow is back. He was on fire his last couple of games in the current formation.

And Morrow not back; also not on the bench.

[Mikmacdo]

Solid lineup, LETS GO GET THAT W!

[gardooney]

Internet only. And technically challenged. Where could I find the game?

[andyc]

Yeah I'm out of the country and would appreciate some help!

[0bl1vious]

stream

http://firstr0w.eu/soccer/toronto-fc-colorado-rapids-ras380499?l=412507014

[tfcfans]

Nice finish and great pass by the best player per dollar on this team....will be interesting to see what RL costs next year...

[tfcfans]

Huzzah! Lets make it 2-0

[Yuushalinsky]

ENDOH! One of the players I've been hoping would have more time this year, and the one who ran away with time with Pozo and the top players.

[GhostKiller]

stream

http://firstr0w.eu/soccer/toronto-fc-colorado-rapids-ras380499?l=412507014
Link don't work.

[notthesun]

Great goal. Nice switch from Benezet to start the move.

[Yuushalinsky]

http://www.osmandembele.live/p/toronto-fc-vs-colorado-rapids-mls-soccer.html

watching on this rn

[Mikmacdo]

Endoh !!!

Its funny how tfc had wingers on the roster all season (Endoh, shaff and telfer) but vanney didnt use them.

[tfcfans]

Panenka....

[notthesun]

Ridiculous VAR use. God it's such an awful system.

[notthesun]

Altidore is abusing Abubakar with his movement.

[tfcfans]

That DC result in Portland could cost us a home game - we will need to win today, in Chicago and against Clbs, and still may need help from Seattle or NYRB....not sure whether sending the “A” team to LA in the middle of the Can Championship is a smart idea (my hunch is they send the “B” team out west)....

[tfcfans]

Oh oh.....

[69Chevy396]

That DC result in Portland could cost us a home game - we will need to win today, in Chicago and against Clbs, and still may need help from Seattle or NYRB....not sure whether sending the “A” team to LA in the middle of the Can Championship is a smart idea (my hunch is they send the “B” team out west)....
Sending a b team to LA is bush league. TFC has done this sort of thing now for two years, always backfiring, always a mistake. You would think by now, FO would prioritize MLS over the championship since most fans want this, and in keeping with most teams in the League. Jesus, you would think playing the best team with our best, has some value

[tfcfans]

And now back to regularly scheduled TFC programming....:facepalm:

[Yohan]

well. what an unfortunate turn of events.

[Yohan]

oh wow. Q makes up for his mistake. huge save

[James17930]

This game has had a great pace so far. I don't feel they can keep this up for 90 mins.

[khso11]

Ridiculous VAR use. God it's such an awful system.

I think that review was to see if it’s red card worthy. Bradley was asking for it.

[FootBallAZ]

Pace is fast
Ref is decent.
When they were up 2-0 had feelings of 2017 team passing. Is good.
May be slightly too cute.


Guys are talking to each other heated at mid field

[James17930]

Pace is fast
Ref is decent.
When they were up 2-0 had feelings of 2017 team passing. Is good.
May be slightly too cute.


Guys are talking to each other heated at mid field

I feel it's going to slow down quite a bit in the 2nd half.

[James17930]

Jozy, c'mon, stop the bloody nonsense already.

[zorsofstesab]

Bono, get ready.

[notthesun]

That's bad and out of character from Gonzalez. He ran to Bradley's man and left his guy alone behind him.

[James17930]

Bono, get ready.

Wasn't much Westburg could do on that. It was the fact that no one was being marked in the box.

[zorsofstesab]

Wasn't much Westburg could do on that. It was the fact that no one was being marked in the box.

Cross into the 6 yard box. That's his house. Would have gone straight into his hands.

[Yohan]

Rapids have taken Altidore out of the game and hence TFC isn't as good in 2nd half

[Mikmacdo]

Big save by Q. Should have kept endoh on and brought Gallardo in for delgado.

[James17930]

Cross into the 6 yard box. That's his house. Would have gone straight into his hands.

But with so many Colorado players charging at the ball, and the placement of the ball, he can't come out for it because he has to guard against one of them getting there first.

It was quite a good ball in, actually, for that reason.

[Bushmancan]

That’s what pace does!!! Great finish as well by Oso!

[Yohan]

Gallardo to Oso.Boom

[James17930]

Great goal by Oso.

C'mon, let's bag some more!

[Mikmacdo]

Gallardo to osorio!!!! Thats why they signed him.

[rydermike]

I think Laryea has a reputation of going down easy that works against him

[zorsofstesab]

Not the 1st time Larryea looks for the penalty. Shoot man, your chances are good that close.

[Mikmacdo]

Laryea flops way too much.

[Bushmancan]

Those at home objectively was that a penalty!!

[James17930]

Those at home objectively was that a penalty!!

Not really. Minimal contact.

[ag futbol]

Looked like he relaxed for a half second and lost position.. then decided to go over

[Bushmancan]

Not really. Minimal contact.
Tx. Looked like a really bad call here

[rydermike]

Benezet repping DragonballZ

[rydermike]

3 near misses in 3 minutes. Feel like that's a bad omen and Colorado is going to get one now

[James17930]

Jozy, oh Jozy.

[Mikmacdo]

How did jozy not score ugh

[James17930]

Very entertaining game.

I hope that final game of the season can sell out.

[Yuushalinsky]

So, Miami, we have this shiny [MARKY DELGADO] here. You want him?

[notthesun]

Big win to get some breathing room. Definitely rode out luck more than we should come playoff time though.

[Mikmacdo]

Good win!

Really liked what i saw from gallardo and endoh. Laryea was was good i just wish he would shoot more and flop less. Osorio should start again going forward. Auros passing is underrated, that pass to jozy was slick.

Send the b team to L.A.

[portu]

Excellent performance again, some lapses but really impressed with attacking will

[barticusz]

Just what we needed. A gritty win to keep things moving forward. Great job all around. Good to see our ball movement getting back to what we were privaledged to see back in 2017.

I really hope Benezet is alright. I’ve really enjoyed his play. Great ball control and can turn so quickly to create space.

[OgtheDim]

TFC surprised me with their grit. Take the 3 points & go.

[Oldtimer]

Endoh !!!

Its funny how tfc had wingers on the roster all season (Endoh, shaff and telfer) but vanney didnt use them.

It was hard to use wingers in a 4-3-3 with Giovinco. With Giovinco gone Vanney moved to his long-preferred formation.


That DC result in Portland could cost us a home game - we will need to win today, in Chicago and against Clbs, and still may need help from Seattle or NYRB....not sure whether sending the “A” team to LA in the middle of the Can Championship is a smart idea (my hunch is they send the “B” team out west)....

Your hunch can't be correct. Vanney was very explicit he would play his best 15 every match here on in. Momentum is critical this point in the season.


Sending a b team to LA is bush league. TFC has done this sort of thing now for two years, always backfiring, always a mistake. You would think by now, FO would prioritize MLS over the championship since most fans want this, and in keeping with most teams in the League. Jesus, you would think playing the best team with our best, has some value

You're reacting to someone's guesses that probably won't happen.


TFC surprised me with their grit. Take the 3 points & go.

Great to see. That's a prerequisite for a playoff run.


... and now, TFC has an almost guaranteed playoff spot and continues to have a chance for home advantage first round.

[DavemTFC]

I really hope Benezet is alright. I’ve really enjoyed his play. Great ball control and can turn so quickly to create space.

They said on the broadcast it wasn't too serious, something with his hamstring (tightness I think) but he'll probably be available for LAFC if not Montreal. Thought he was excellent before going down, as was Endoh and later Gallardo. We have tons of good options on the wing which is a far cry from early this season

Looks like we'll probably be playing DC in the knockout round, the question is who will be the 4 seed. Their win in Portland was huge since they have one more home game left than we do

First time poster but long time lurker of these boards, btw

[Auzzy]

Endoh !!!

Its funny how tfc had wingers on the roster all season (Endoh, shaff and telfer) but vanney didnt use them.


It was hard to use wingers in a 4-3-3 with Giovinco. With Giovinco gone Vanney moved to his long-preferred formation.



He was referring to this season, not when Giovinco was here. We had Endoh; we didn't have to loan out Telfer; and Schaffner might have been ready earlier. But Vanney didn't start playing with wingers until much later in this season.

[ensco]

We were very entertaining and showed tons of fight. Endow was really a factor early. Gallardo showed something. Q with a massive PK stop. Mavinga with a key interception to start the move on the winning goal. The rain held off.

But yeah, they could have had 6, I don’t know how we stop the leaking at the back, and, but for the fact that this is crazy MLS, I would think we have no shot at going anywhere in the playoffs.

[Defoe]

My seats were by the corner kick flag so my view wasn't the greatest but Laryea looked good, so did Endoh. Hope Benezet is ok

[stevep]

what a game!! thought it was going to be 5-0 after the pozuelo pk, boy was i wrong on that call.
play your A team vs LAFC. lets see how good we are
my interest in cdn championship is very low

[OgtheDim]

Gallardo & Shaff are wingers.

Endoh & Benezet & Osorio & DeLeon are playing as advanced wide midfielders - heck even Gallardo was playing central at times tonight.

Regardless, we got the ball movement going well now, and a lot of that is because Delgado's life has been simplified while Bradley has been...immense.


*****

Kudos to the TIFO tonight.

[James17930]

They said on the broadcast it wasn't too serious, something with his hamstring (tightness I think) but he'll probably be available for LAFC if not Montreal. Thought he was excellent before going down, as was Endoh and later Gallardo. We have tons of good options on the wing which is a far cry from early this season

Looks like we'll probably be playing DC in the knockout round, the question is who will be the 4 seed. Their win in Portland was huge since they have one more home game left than we do

First time poster but long time lurker of these boards, btw

Welcome! Glad you finally decided to post.

[Initial B]

Benezet repping DragonballZ
Actually, that's just Dragonball, when Goku was a kid. <takes off weiboo hat>

I was impressed they found that third goal, but it was a close thing as Colorado squandered a bunch of chances. I expect we'll see Laryea, Osorio, Shaffelburg, Morgan, Chapman, and Fraser either starting or on the bench for Wednesday since they're Canadians, and Bono as keeper. Gallardo will probably start as well. They're going to rotate a couple of their starters for that game to keep them fresh for LA, especially Bradley.

[OgtheDim]

For those who didn't see it

https://twitter.com/Eric_Giacometti/status/1173369978822811648

********

Westberg's post game remarks about keeping calm and not getting overly emotional out there is interesting - he was asked about his pointed remarks to the defenders & said he had to step in because people were getting too emotional

https://www.torontofc.ca/post/2019/09/15/postgame-sound-quentin-westberg-september-15-2019?autoplay=true

"If you want to build something as a team, you need to keep calm" Worth watching. In some ways, he's basically told everybody to get over Chivas.

[ManUtd4ever]

It wasn't always pretty, but we took care of business tonight.

[PaceyWinger]

Took my son (5) to his first match tonight. Was feeling pretty proud of the little bugger as he was on the ref early and often about his calls. Fun match. Didn't really see what happened to Benezet, hopefully he is ok. Can't believe that Altidore miss. so unlucky.

[ag futbol]

3-2 was about as flattering to Colorado as it gets. I thought TFC dominated large stretches of the game and was unlucky not to have put this one away earlier.

You could see the width start to make a difference in the formation with there being lots of pockets in the middle of the field for Pozuelo and others to operate in.

Benezet extremely influential during his time on the field

[TFC07]

Overall, it was good game but TFC defending and poor goalkeeping at times is holding this team back being a championship contender. I am not sure what else can be done to fix this issue.

[Defoe]

Overall, it was good game but TFC defending and poor goalkeeping at times is holding this team back being a championship contender. I am not sure what else can be done to fix this issue.

Every team is bad defensively. MLS score lines this week.

7-2
4-2
3-3
3-2
3-1
3-1
2-1
1-1
1-0

But yes, it needs to improve. Things should tighten up a bit in the playoffs and I think Morrow in and Auro out will help a lot. Also Laryea has won the RB battle between Auro and Laryea.

[Blindside16]

Every team is bad defensively. MLS score lines this week.

7-2
4-2
3-3
3-2
3-1
3-1
2-1
1-1
1-0

But yes, it needs to improve. Things should tighten up a bit in the playoffs and I think Morrow in and Auro out will help a lot. Also Laryea has won the RB battle between Auro and Laryea.

I agree this team is better suited with Morrow and Laryea playing as LB and RB respectively. This was yet again a tale of 2 teams. The team that played the first half hour that dominated the field and looked like they were going to run wild and then the team that took over from there. We should have hammered them by 5 or 6 yet we continued to let them back into the game. Kudos to Westberg for making it up on the penalty. We have yet to play a full 90 minutes yet this season.

On a side note, much respect for that Tifo. I hope we find a way to re-sign Bradley but if we can't I am glad we were able to give him the honours he deserves. The game against Columbus could be his final game at BMO in a red jersey and if it is I'm glad we got to thank the General (on armed forces night no less)

[JT Red127]

But yeah, they could have had 6, I don’t know how we stop the leaking at the back, and, but for the fact that this is crazy MLS, I would think we have no shot at going anywhere in the playoffs.

This league really is crazy, I think this describes any team in the league other than LAFC or NYCFC.

[C.Ronaldo]

Auro's passing is excellent, auro's defensive positioning is painful to watch.
He seems slow to react, like he's carrying extra 20lbs but that seems to disappear on ofense.

Anywho, we have an issue. Osorio is too good to not be starting. He communicates well and tracks back players, almost Bradley like. Plus, hes finally scoring and can be counted on to do so.

[OgtheDim]

Auro's passing is excellent, auro's defensive positioning is painful to watch.
He seems slow to react, like he's carrying extra 20lbs but that seems to disappear on ofense.

Anywho, we have an issue. Osorio is too good to not be starting. He communicates well and tracks back players, almost Bradley like. Plus, hes finally scoring and can be counted on to do so.


Which leads to the question - can Osorio be Bradley's spear carrier?

[woolly]

Which leads to the question - can Osorio be Bradley's spear carrier?

Oof... I'm a big Osorio booster, but I think the answer is a flat "no"

[69Chevy396]

Auro's passing is excellent, auro's defensive positioning is painful to watch.
He seems slow to react, like he's carrying extra 20lbs but that seems to disappear on ofense.

Anywho, we have an issue. Osorio is too good to not be starting. He communicates well and tracks back players, almost Bradley like. Plus, hes finally scoring and can be counted on to do so.
Nice to see Osorio finally earning his salary.

[Section_105]

So that was fun. An entertaining game with some TFC 2017 and some TFC 2012 thrown in the mix. was a stressful and yet very eventful game.


Also. we need a camera on the east side on each box. In like the 2nd min Laryea goes over easy (it looks like). But I'm on the corner flag and the linesman should have seen that the defender essentially fell on Laryeas foot bringing him down. It was a nailed on penalty and no call at all. The ref couldn't see it due to sightline angles and bodies in the way. With no camera (I'm pretty sure as I rewatched the game and there were no reverse angles ) the only way that gets called is if the linesman does. But that guy was awful. Always behind the play and never made a call for himself without looking at the ref first. Anywho, useless bitching over. Overall a weird but evenly officiated game.

[C.Ronaldo]

Which leads to the question - can Osorio be Bradley's spear carrier?

Sorry, not familiar with the term.

[OgtheDim]

Sorry, not familiar with the term.

The Midfielder beside Bradley the General that is that little bit faster that allows Bradley to do what he does.

[C.Ronaldo]

So that was fun. An entertaining game with some TFC 2017 and some TFC 2012 thrown in the mix. was a stressful and yet very eventful game.


Also. we need a camera on the east side on each box. In like the 2nd min Laryea goes over easy (it looks like). But I'm on the corner flag and the linesman should have seen that the defender essentially fell on Laryeas foot bringing him down. It was a nailed on penalty and no call at all. The ref couldn't see it due to sightline angles and bodies in the way. With no camera (I'm pretty sure as I rewatched the game and there were no reverse angles ) the only way that gets called is if the linesman does. But that guy was awful. Always behind the play and never made a call for himself without looking at the ref first. Anywho, useless bitching over. Overall a weird but evenly officiated game.

Richie was certainly a pk. Clipped his foot

And the linesman made a call , once on the ball going out on a Colorado player. Then the ref overruled it and said something about the ball grazing endohs shirt? TF!

[C.Ronaldo]

The Midfielder beside Bradley the General that is that little bit faster that allows Bradley to do what he does.

a better marky?

[OgtheDim]

Just saw Doyle respond this tweet and it reminded me of how much this goal is dependent upon the defence getting the ball up quickly

https://twitter.com/CJSmith91/status/1173596563580567552

[C.Ronaldo]

anyone have the highlight of westberg faking the clearance on Kamara

even Kamara thought it was nice, his face was priceless

[MightyDM]

Which leads to the question - can Osorio be Bradley's spear carrier?

We were talking about what to do with Oso last night, at the game, and the general consensus was that, as Poz was a panic buy to replace Seba, no one had really thought this through. Oso's skills make him essentially a back up to Poz in a 4-2-3-1 like they are playing. However, they could try a 4-1-3-2 with Poz and Jozy up front which would mean Oso could play in the centre of the 3. Otherwise, with actual wingers (and Benezet seems to be quality) Oso misses out unless he is seen as preferable to Marky as you suggest.

I wonder if you could play Oso and Marky? As a two person replacement for the general?

The other question is what to do with deLeon. He has been very impactful this year. Essentially you have Bradley playing superbly, Marky very well when he sticks to his knitting, Deleon, Poz, Oso, Endoh, and maybe Gallardo all earning minutes.

A second question we had was, what has happened to der Shaff? Vanney does have a blind spot for developing Canadians. Shaff surely has earned some minutes too.

[C.Ronaldo]

We were talking about what to do with Oso last night, at the game, and the general consensus was that, as Poz was a panic buy to replace Seba, no one had really thought this through. Oso's skills make him essentially a back up to Poz in a 4-2-3-1 like they are playing. However, they could try a 4-1-3-2 with Poz and Jozy up front which would mean Oso could play in the centre of the 3. Otherwise, with actual wingers (and Benezet seems to be quality) Oso misses out unless he is seen as preferable to Marky as you suggest.

I wonder if you could play Oso and Marky? As a two person replacement for the general?

The other question is what to do with deLeon. He has been very impactful this year. Essentially you have Bradley playing superbly, Marky very well when he sticks to his knitting, Deleon, Poz, Oso, Endoh, and maybe Gallardo all earning minutes.

A second question we had was, what has happened to der Shaff? Vanney does have a blind spot for developing Canadians. Shaff surely has earned some minutes too.

Still think marky is too one dimensional. Like u said, he needs to stick to his role. I would like to see Osorio i. Markys role.

[pfk]

anyone have the highlight of westberg faking the clearance on Kamara

even Kamara thought it was nice, his face was priceless

A highlight would be great. Kamara gave Westberg a thumbs-up after the fake out.

TFC certainly like to keep the games interesting. It looked like it would be a cake walk going up 2-0 early, but some boneheaded errors and bad passing kept it a bit too close.

I was impressed by the Gallardo sub. Lots a pace down the wing, opening up the offense in in the second half.

Lastly, TFC's odd of making the playoff at at 99.3% now, which is great. Now it's just a matter of placing: http://www.sportsclubstats.com/USA/TorontoFC.html.

[Oldtimer]

A second question we had was, what has happened to der Shaff? Vanney does have a blind spot for developing Canadians. Shaff surely has earned some minutes too.

Vanney is playing his best 15 in the stretch. There's no way Shaff is part of that group. Don't worry, he'll have opportunities as long as he trains hard, just not in the next three league games or the playoffs. Probably in the Canadian Championship though. Also probably next spring when Vanney gives his depth players an opportunity again, leading to TFC losing again, and everyone calling for Vanney's head. Followed by Vanney playing his top 15 again and TFC winning again. That's the Vanney season cycle.

[Canary10]

What position do we need to host a playoff game?

[Auzzy]

Auro's passing is excellent, auro's defensive positioning is painful to watch.
He seems slow to react, like he's carrying extra 20lbs but that seems to disappear on ofense.


I think there's more to that. On multiple occasions, I saw Auro left alone in front of goal with two big attackers. I think sometimes Gonzalez & Mavinga let themselves get pulled too far to one side, and together, leaving the middle open. They even do that sometimes when there are already multiple other TFC players defending on the ball side (e.g. fullback + midfielders). One of the CBs has to stay more central; and/or midfielders have to help more on that side.

[sidvan]

What position do we need to host a playoff game?

4th or better

[pfk]

What position do we need to host a playoff game?

4th.

The top team in the conference gets a bye in the first round.
Home - Away
2nd vs 7th
3rd vs 6th
4th vs 5th

If the playoffs started today.... https://www.mlssoccer.com/standings/scenarios
Dates and all are here.

[Canary10]

Thanks!

[ensco]

The interesting bit is that this happens NBA style, they don't re-seed, so a lower ranked team can get a later round playoff game if there are upsets

One gets the 4/5 winner at home, but if teams 6 and 7 both win the opening round games, 6 hosts the semifinal against 7

It might be better to be 6th rather than 5th

[stevep]

We were talking about what to do with Oso last night, at the game, and the general consensus was that, as Poz was a panic buy to replace Seba, no one had really thought this through. Oso's skills make him essentially a back up to Poz in a 4-2-3-1 like they are playing. However, they could try a 4-1-3-2 with Poz and Jozy up front which would mean Oso could play in the centre of the 3. Otherwise, with actual wingers (and Benezet seems to be quality) Oso misses out unless he is seen as preferable to Marky as you suggest.

I wonder if you could play Oso and Marky? As a two person replacement for the general?

The other question is what to do with deLeon. He has been very impactful this year. Essentially you have Bradley playing superbly, Marky very well when he sticks to his knitting, Deleon, Poz, Oso, Endoh, and maybe Gallardo all earning minutes.

A second question we had was, what has happened to der Shaff? Vanney does have a blind spot for developing Canadians. Shaff surely has earned some minutes too.

Shaff at 70plus minutes onward if Benezet is tired might be an option. defences would not be able to keep up with the shaff at that point in the game

[C.Ronaldo]

I think there's more to that. On multiple occasions, I saw Auro left alone in front of goal with two big attackers. I think sometimes Gonzalez & Mavinga let themselves get pulled too far to one side, and together, leaving the middle open. They even do that sometimes when there are already multiple other TFC players defending on the ball side (e.g. fullback + midfielders). One of the CBs has to stay more central; and/or midfielders have to help more on that side.

yah i saw that one, Auro pretty much had no chance in that situation.

[flatpicker]

My two main takeaways from yesterday's game:

1. Be sure to inspect pants before leaving house. I had an 8 inch rip straight down one ass cheek of my jeans. Fortunately, it was pointed out to me while still en route to game and managed to do a hasty purchase of new jeans at the Gap. Now I'm wondering how long that rip was there without me knowing. Maybe that's why a few of my students kept giggling during class the other day.

2. Those Pringles they've been giving away taste like shit. Don't they hire professionals taste people at these companies?

3. (Bonus takeaway)... good game. I got worried there for a bit, but they pulled through nicely.

[TFC1154ever]

Auro's passing is excellent, auro's defensive positioning is painful to watch.
He seems slow to react, like he's carrying extra 20lbs but that seems to disappear on ofense.

Anywho, we have an issue. Osorio is too good to not be starting. He communicates well and tracks back players, almost Bradley like. Plus, hes finally scoring and can be counted on to do so.

Yes thank you. I’ve been harping on this since last year. Auro for me is a winger, not a fullback. He is a poor defender, but at times, a brilliant attacker (the play to set up Altidore, which he somehow hit the crossbar). For me, he’s a attacking RB sub when needing a goal. Laryea is my starting RB. Still needs to work on picking his spots to jump up, but boy can that guy beat the first man and create dangerous chances. Fast as hell too. If he starts/works on his shooting, I can see him scoring 5/7 goals a year.

[DinamoTFC]

The interesting bit is that this happens NBA style, they don't re-seed, so a lower ranked team can get a later round playoff game if there are upsets

One gets the 4/5 winner at home, but if teams 6 and 7 both win the opening round games, 6 hosts the semifinal against 7

It might be better to be 6th rather than 5th

I was wondering about the lack of reseeding as well. Really strange and takes away advantage for higher seed teams.

[Mikmacdo]

Yes thank you. I’ve been harping on this since last year. Auro for me is a winger, not a fullback. He is a poor defender, but at times, a brilliant attacker (the play to set up Altidore, which he somehow hit the crossbar). For me, he’s a attacking RB sub when needing a goal. Laryea is my starting RB. Still needs to work on picking his spots to jump up, but boy can that guy beat the first man and create dangerous chances. Fast as hell too. If he starts/works on his shooting, I can see him scoring 5/7 goals a year.

Its funny i see it the other way around. Layrea is more of a winger to me due to his speed and dribbling. Auro is too slow to be a winger.

[MightyDM]

Vanney is playing his best 15 in the stretch. There's no way Shaff is part of that group. Don't worry, he'll have opportunities as long as he trains hard, just not in the next three league games or the playoffs. Probably in the Canadian Championship though. Also probably next spring when Vanney gives his depth players an opportunity again, leading to TFC losing again, and everyone calling for Vanney's head. Followed by Vanney playing his top 15 again and TFC winning again. That's the Vanney season cycle.

I like Vanney. I didn’t when he was hired, but I do. However, he does have blind spots and I think developing Canadian talent is one of them. Which is surprising, because developing young talent isn’t.

[MightyDM]

Shaff at 70plus minutes onward if Benezet is tired might be an option. defences would not be able to keep up with the shaff at that point in the game

Yes, exactly. Yes

The same role that I see Gallardo playing.

[pfk]

I was wondering about the lack of reseeding as well. Really strange and takes away advantage for higher seed teams.

The NHL does this too by locking in either your division rivals/wild car vs division leaders. I like the re-seeding in each round as it gives the higher seed more advantages.

If the playoffs were today and TFC won the conference and and San Jose/Portland won the West, we'd host another MLS Cup! (Note: both the Quakes and Timbers have a game in hand, so that can change)

[Canary10]

My two main takeaways from yesterday's game:

1. Be sure to inspect pants before leaving house. I had an 8 inch rip straight down one ass cheek of my jeans. Fortunately, it was pointed out to me while still en route to game and managed to do a hasty purchase of new jeans at the Gap. Now I'm wondering how long that rip was there without me knowing. Maybe that's why a few of my students kept giggling during class the other day.

2. Those Pringles they've been giving away taste like shit. Don't they hire professionals taste people at these companies?

3. (Bonus takeaway)... good game. I got worried there for a bit, but they pulled through nicely.

Ha!! Yeah those Pringles really did taste like shit. Yet I ate them.

How great was it seeing previous TFC heroes too? Heroes such as Jeremy Hall.

[613reppingTFC]

I just looked through the posts and have not seen anyone really mention that nasty Altidore bull charge he did towards Abubakar. Thoughts on this? i was watching at home and kept rewinding and thought for sure he was going to get a red for it, he watched as the ball started to go up in the air but then immediately charged him without taking another look at the ball.
if you want to see the play, as it is being reviewed.
https://www.wakingthered.com/2019/9/16/20868594/toronto-fcs-jozy-altidore-may-be-hearing-from-the-league-possible-suspension

[C.Ronaldo]

Yes, exactly. Yes

The same role that I see Gallardo playing.

I like using endoh to run them into the ground and gallarado to come on later 60 min.

[OgtheDim]

Ha!! Yeah those Pringles really did taste like shit. Yet I ate them.

How great was it seeing previous TFC heroes too? Heroes such as Jeremy Hall.

That made me laugh but Marvel Wynne was there so.....


Its nice to see the team try to bring back people and involve alumni a bit more.

[DinamoTFC]

I just looked through the posts and have not seen anyone really mention that nasty Altidore bull charge he did towards Abubakar. Thoughts on this? i was watching at home and kept rewinding and thought for sure he was going to get a red for it, he watched as the ball started to go up in the air but then immediately charged him without taking another look at the ball.
if you want to see the play, as it is being reviewed.
https://www.wakingthered.com/2019/9/16/20868594/toronto-fcs-jozy-altidore-may-be-hearing-from-the-league-possible-suspension

Abubakar was hacking away at jozy all game. How he didn't get a second yellow is beyond me.

Jozy's tackle was obviously blatant revenge. Ref ended up keeping it fair with neither getting sent off.

[samuraizero]

Abubakar was hacking away at jozy all game. How he didn't get a second yellow is beyond me.

Jozy's tackle was obviously blatant revenge. Ref ended up keeping it fair with neither getting sent off.


Agreed, Abubakar definitely deserved a second yellow on more than one occasion.
The ref let this game get away from him - and shit like this happens when refs fail.

In fairness though, Jozy needs to keep a more level head, regardless of how frustrated he is - if Abubakar fell differently he could have been seriously injured.

[ag futbol]

Laryea has been great. For someone who never played the position before this year he’s learning quickly. Even seeing his defensive positioning now vs. 10 games ago is a drastic improvement.

He just needs to convert on some of those chances on the box or get a few more penalty calls. But even if that never happens i’m pretty comfortable with these performances. He’s giving teams fits on the right side.

[OgtheDim]

The more interesting tackle was the chop down by Mavinga just after Laryea got pushed down in the box.


Gonzalez and a few others gave him a hand slap for that one - reeked of "Not in OUR House"

[C.Ronaldo]

I just looked through the posts and have not seen anyone really mention that nasty Altidore bull charge he did towards Abubakar. Thoughts on this? i was watching at home and kept rewinding and thought for sure he was going to get a red for it, he watched as the ball started to go up in the air but then immediately charged him without taking another look at the ball.
if you want to see the play, as it is being reviewed.
https://www.wakingthered.com/2019/9/16/20868594/toronto-fcs-jozy-altidore-may-be-hearing-from-the-league-possible-suspension

he was being hacked all game. Abubakar deserved a red 3 or 4 times by that point. At points in the game, Abubakar would could kicking Jozy's ankles acting like he was going for the ball. Altidore knew the ref would not hand out a red in this game

[C.Ronaldo]

Laryea has been great. For someone who never played the position before this year he’s learning quickly. Even seeing his defensive positioning now vs. 10 games ago is a drastic improvement.

He just needs to convert on some of those chances on the box or get a few more penalty calls. But even if that never happens i’m pretty comfortable with these performances. He’s giving teams fits on the right side.

i not sure he will ever have a good finish, hence hes at RB. just gotta work on getting those crosses in

[C.Ronaldo]

The more interesting tackle was the chop down by Mavinga just after Laryea got pushed down in the box.


Gonzalez and a few others gave him a hand slap for that one - reeked of "Not in OUR House"

yah, that was Cheyrou-esque.

We havent seen this from anyone in a long while