Regular Season Phase 2 Game 4 - Philly "@" TFC - Sat October 3 7:30pm - On with the..

[OgtheDim]

Brass Bonanza


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



*********

Have at It People

[613reppingTFC]

Coming off a big win, a week's rest and get to see their family. Hope they can put out another strong line-up and performance. They very much dominated the second half of that game and it was such nice footy to watch them playing again!

[OgtheDim]

Team headed back to Hartford today

https://twitter.com/SportsAviation/status/1311345083879493633

[MightyDM]

OG you should have called this game three. I keep clicking on it expecting to see conversation about the Columbus game.

[NK Toronto]

Which version of TFC will we see? The one that sleep walked against Vancouver and Montreal, or the one that dominated the 2nd half against Columbus?

[James17930]

which version of tfc will we see? The one that sleep walked against vancouver and montreal, or the one that dominated the 2nd half against columbus?

DOMINATION. WE WILL DESTROY THEM.

:flare::drum::flare::drum::flare::drum::scarf::sca rf::scarf::scarf::scarf:

[Auzzy]

What I don't quite get: many of the TFC players spent 48 hours with their families in the Toronto area. Do their families then have to quarantine for up to 14 days?

[Red CB Toronto]

What I don't quite get: many of the TFC players spent 48 hours with their families in the Toronto area. Do their families then have to quarantine for up to 14 days?

I am very surprised the club even disclosed the fact that the team returned to Toronto for the two days to see family. The players, coaches, staff would have been issued a 14 day quarantine order when the landed back in Toronto. They were allowed like anyone else would to break it to leave the country. In looking into the rules Canada currently has for a 14 day quarantine you are able to live with family/friends who have not travelled with you provided you have a separate bedroom and bathroom, if possible. Those already here are not required to quarantine, unless they are showing symptoms it of course. With the current border restrictions many of the Reds players would not even be able to enter the country due to their nationality under normal circumstances as such this trip in no way would be considered essential. The day a negative test can negate a 14 day quarantine can not come soon enough. I know the airlines are working with Hawaii on a rapid testing policy to get tourists heading back and Air Canada has bought a number of rapid tests. Processes like that will un-muddy the waters, especially when it comes to things like this TFC trip back into town.

[Auzzy]

Well let's not get into it too much on a game thread, but for 14 days after entering Canada, in addition to using a different bedroom and bathroom from those that didn't travel (most TFC players can probably afford houses like that), you're also supposed to "Limit interactions with others in the household [i.e. those that didn't travel with you and aren't quarantining with you] and wear a mask or face covering if a 2m distance cannot be maintained [within the house]." Just doesn't seem realistic for players that are specifically coming for 48 hours to visit their families. Anyway I would say that TFC players are fairly low-risk because they get tested all the time, plus they're flying charter and have limited contact with others. That might have affected why this trip was possible.

With case numbers exploding (again, argh) in Ontario and Quebec, and Ontario massively behind on testing, the millions of rapid tests that were just approved & purchased for Canada aren't going to be used to support non-essential travel anytime soon. They will be used to try and keep Ontario and Quebec barely functioning, and try to keep healthcare, elder care, and other essential services at least a tiny bit safer. If Air Canada and other private companies want to pay for other tests, and prove that they are reliable (many rapid tests aren't), and get them approved, then we'll see. Still the problem that it takes at least 2-5 days after infection before a test will register positive, and that there's heightened infection risk during travel. Meaning that there probably should still be a 2 to 5 day quarantine especially coming from places like the US with high case counts, and then another test. Places that have relied only on tests especially for those coming from badly infected areas, e.g. some European countries that have depended too much on traveller testing, have noticed many cases slipping through the cracks.

[OgtheDim]

The relevant information is here

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/corporate/mandate/about-agency/acts-regulations/list-acts-regulations.html#6e

Manning indicated in an interview last week that TFC received guidance from TPH, OntarioPH & Canada PH that they qualify under this bit of the exemption laws


Persons who must cross the border regularly (https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/corporate/mandate/about-agency/acts-regulations/list-acts-regulations.html#fn*)to go to their normal place of employment

I have no idea what this does for families.


**************

Its game day, and happy to be back. Team likely to regress from last week but good to have something to cheer/moan about.

[NK Toronto]

I hope this thread comes alive during the game. I quite enjoy posting and reading other posts during play. Makes it feel like I am watching with other fans. Given what is going on in the world watching these games takes my mind off reality. I believe some soccer manager once said that of all the things in life that are unimportant, football is the most important.

[CBTFC]

I'm dialed in for the evening. Have 2 big pots of chili slowlys simmering since before 3pm, and adding roasted garlic bread along with it.

Here's hoping for a solid match from the Reds!

[MightyDM]

Tandoori chicken off the BBQ. With a decent pint and TFC, what more could you want?

[OgtheDim]

FWIW, Union flew in this morning - "away" teams have to fly in and out the same day. That's an advantage to us.

[GerMc]

Line up for tonight

Westberg
Laryea
Gonzalez
Mavinga
Morrow
Delgado
Osorio (captain)
Piatti
Pozuelo
Akinola
Altidore

Subs: Bono, Ciman, Deleon, Endoh, Fraser, Gallacher, Gallardo, Mullins, Nelson.

The tag line is "If it ain't broke...."

Seems appropriate!

[MightyDM]

And it’s good to see the thread working this game

[NK Toronto]

Rib eye steak, baked potato, oven-roasted veggies, and a glass of merlot, for dinner. For the game, a glass of perrier.

[OgtheDim]

You lot are making me hungry so going to rustle up some rotini with mushrooms & garlic & peppers and an craft brewed English Ale.

[MightyDM]

Shaff has fallen down the pecking order.

[NK Toronto]

Shaff has fallen down the pecking order.

I don't see him having a long term future with the club. He may be better off in the CPL.

[NK Toronto]

You lot are making me hungry so going to rustle up some rotini with mushrooms & garlic & peppers and an craft brewed English Ale.

That sounds pretty good, although with pasta I prefer a glass of white or red wine depending on the sauce. An ale goes good with a pot roast or a beef stew.

[Auzzy]

And it’s good to see the thread working this game

Sshhhhh, don't jinx it!!! ;)

[FootBallAZ]

Let's get it, don't stop

[NK Toronto]

Does anyone know what happened to Ensco? Haven't seen one of his posts in a while.

[OgtheDim]

All I want tonight is my 'effin team' to 'effin work'

I fully expect the diamond Philly plays to give them a lot of possession. And they have a very good big defence. This is another test. Hope team is up for it.

[James17930]

Good morning all.

Got my coffee. Ready to watch a good win.

[NK Toronto]

Some talk that Akinola is about to commit to Canada. Hope he does.

[NK Toronto]

Oh man.

[NK Toronto]

I am starting to wonder about Gonzalez.

[MightyDM]

That’s was terrible. There were five men around that guy. Q didn’t look too good either.

[James17930]

That’s was terrible. There were five men around that guy. Q didn’t look too good either.

Yes. Why did he come out like that?

[notthesun]

Big yikes to Gonzalez on that... That was an easy tackle to make and he just whiffed it.

[NK Toronto]

We keep giving up weak goals.

[MightyDM]

We keep giving up weak goals.

Yup!

[TheSloanRanger]

Jozy doesnt fit this lineup, love him, but maybe time to move on.
how many times does a build up die at his feet. ill never doubt his abilities but it doesnt match with what this team is trying to do

[Bushmancan]

Ref is allowing a lot of contact.

[OgtheDim]

11 red vs. a bus

[NK Toronto]

Controlling play but haven't generated any chances other than that one by Mavinga

[NK Toronto]

Passing is off tonight.

[Bushmancan]

We need to get some movement on the left side ... they are definitely overloading the right

[MightyDM]

Jozy doesnt fit this lineup, love him, but maybe time to move on.
how many times does a build up die at his feet. ill never doubt his abilities but it doesnt match with what this team is trying to do

Poz is the attacking issue, not Jozy. He’s off tonight.

[bhandsome90]

Why does Vanney not start his wingers? Only one he uses is Piatti.

[NK Toronto]

Morrow is nearing the end.

[zorsofstesab]

Looks like he has packed it in. Not fair to the rest of his team mates how low his work ethic is. Time to re-think this marriage and maybe a mutual divorce needs to be discussed.


Jozy doesnt fit this lineup, love him, but maybe time to move on.
how many times does a build up die at his feet. ill never doubt his abilities but it doesnt match with what this team is trying to do

[MightyDM]

When they attack, Omar is always the target. But he is strong in the air. I will give him that.

[TheSloanRanger]

agree to disagree but i dont think the potential mls mvp is our attacking issue. Jozy offers no positive runs, no positive build up, no positive positioning.

pozuelo is vazquez on steroids and is craving a striker to compliment his style

[MightyDM]

Looks like he has packed it in. Not fair to the rest of his team mates how low his work ethic is. Time to re-think this marriage and maybe a mutual divorce needs to be discussed.

Won’t bother arguing. Just to say my view is the exact opposite.

[benito]

When they attack, Omar is always the target. But he is strong in the air. I will give him that.

You’re right. Omar looks slow tonight.

[zorsofstesab]

Fair enough. I did not post my thoughts looking for an argument.


Won’t bother arguing. Just to say my view is the exact opposite.

[ag futbol]

agree to disagree but i dont think the potential mls mvp is our attacking issue. Jozy offers no positive runs, no positive build up, no positive positioning.

pozuelo is vazquez on steroids and is craving a striker to compliment his style
He basically needs the luxury version of Akinola. Someone who is still strong and hold up the ball a bit but is speedy and a threat to get in behind to get a line splitting pass.

And I think Akinola is great but needs polish. More super sub than starter imo

[NK Toronto]

Our history in Hartford shows we play much better when attacking the goal on the right side of the field, so I am hoping for a better 2nd half.

[TheSloanRanger]

Looks like he has packed it in. Not fair to the rest of his team mates how low his work ethic is. Time to re-think this marriage and maybe a mutual divorce needs to be discussed.


He basically needs the luxury version of Akinola. Someone who is still strong and hold up the ball a bit but is speedy and a threat to get in behind to get a line splitting pass.

And I think Akinola is great but needs polish. More super sub than starter imo


maybe im living in the past but Jozy needs a Seba, as a lone striker he seems lost and at times completely irrelevant

[Auzzy]

LOL of all the problems tonight, focussing on Jozy...

How about, almost none of TFC's crosses are going anywhere near a red jersey?

Philadelphia's 4th-minute goal really put TFC at a disadvantage, the Union are packing the box. And most of the time when we get them out or unsettled, TFC moves the ball way too slowly to take advantage. Also Piatti just isn't showing the effectiveness that he had earlier in the season.

[notthesun]

agree to disagree but i dont think the potential mls mvp is our attacking issue. Jozy offers no positive runs, no positive build up, no positive positioning.

pozuelo is vazquez on steroids and is craving a striker to compliment his style

Gotta say I think this is pretty accurate. For all his size and strength, Jozy has always been a channel-running striker. He's never truly played like target man, not in the final third, even though he's had the build of one.

But he's visibly slowed down recently and makes less forward runs. I have to imagine all those muscle injuries over the years have taken their toll. He hangs back more or plays with his back to goal way more than he used to. He's more likely to score lay-offs like his last goal than getting on the end of a ball in behind now. So I think you're right, a striker then can make smart darting runs in behind + Pozuelo would be a huge threat.

[ag futbol]

I actually think we’re playing alright but the Akinola-Altidore combo up top isn’t quite fluid.

Just keep pressing like we were, with a little bit more end product.

[spe18]

Why does Vanney not start his wingers? Only one he uses is Piatti.

Would wingers play in a 4-3-3 formation? And is that the formation they are playing tonight? Because if so, then that might be the reason why.

There was actually a very good article posted on The Athletic on Altidore and his struggles, and part of it goes into detail about playing a 4-3-3 vs. playing Vanney's long used formation of a 3-5-2 (I'm guessing part of the "5" includes wingers - I know virtually nothing about even the basic concept of formations in soccer).

https://theathletic.com/2111432/2020/10/02/jozy-altidore-is-struggling-what-should-toronto-fc-do/

[OgtheDim]

Won’t bother arguing. Just to say my view is the exact opposite.

Well I'll bite for a bit - Jozy has been defending near our box a few times. Same approach we took against NYC in the second half. Have no clue how somebody can say his workload is bad.


*****************


Philly is a good team - been a while since we have faced such a good team while still being able to control the ball. For the neutral, a decent cagey game.

[Bushmancan]

[QUOTE=NK Toronto;1923287]Our history in Hartford shows we play much better when attacking the goal on the right side of the field, so I am hoping for a better 2nd half.[/QUOTE

Nice.... COYRs

[Bushmancan]

Our history in Hartford shows we play much better when attacking the goal on the right side of the field, so I am hoping for a better 2nd half.


Nice.... COYRs

[James17930]

I expect Richie start making some maurading runs this half.

[613reppingTFC]

Any guesses how long he will be out for?

[NK Toronto]

Piatti's small size causes him to be easily pushed off the ball. Don't think he is suited to a physical league like MLS

[Bushmancan]

Looks like we have lost our DP striker.... might be it for the season. Going into cold weather.

[notthesun]

Well... another hamstring for Jozy. It's not like we can be surprised at this point.

[OgtheDim]

Anddddd....there we go - hamstring. Out until the end of the season I suspect.

[MightyDM]

God the referee gets in the way a lot.

[613reppingTFC]

Oh and I had a rotisserie chicken on the BBQ that was brined two days ago and seasoned last night. Lol with bomb hot pepper cream cornbread and brussel sprouts

[ag futbol]

I’ll probably end up eating my words here but DeLeon is not what we need right now

[NK Toronto]

Looks like we have lost our DP striker.... might be it for the season. Going into cold weather.

This might be his last time in a TFC uniform

[Auzzy]

Oh and I had a rotisserie chicken on the BBQ that was brined two days ago and seasoned last night. Lol with bomb hot pepper cream cornbread and brussel sprouts

This is the content I like to hear!

[tfcfans]

I think we’ve seen this movie before....kind of tired to keep hoping since 2018 that Joey can be healthy for 75% of the minutes in a season...

[Mikmacdo]

This might be his last time in a TFC uniform

Hopefully.

[MightyDM]

I’ll probably end up eating my words here but DeLeon is not what we need right now

I agree. Let’s hope we are both wrong.

[zorsofstesab]

Maybe a rehab assignment with his wife will be in order. Body language in the 1st half speaks volumes.

[James17930]

At this point he should probably just retire. Maybe he can get into coaching or broadcasting or something.

[NK Toronto]

A DP striker and a TAM centre back should be our priorities in the off season. With the money the team will lose this season that may not be feasible.

[tfcfans]

Yay!!!!

[Bushmancan]

What an elfin... cross. Blake almost got that.

[rydermike]

Make Gallacher's loan permanent!

[benito]

Yesss! Great cross and great header!

[OgtheDim]

Oh look....pace.

[ag futbol]

Yes!!

[NK Toronto]

We may have Morrow's replacement

[SirBobSaget]

I was just thinking as he was jetting down the side that Gallagher looks a big upgrade attack-wise over Morrow .. then that cross really nice!

[MightyDM]

Premier league quality cross

[Bushmancan]

Piatti has to bury that.

[NK Toronto]

Oh and I had a rotisserie chicken on the BBQ that was brined two days ago and seasoned last night. Lol with bomb hot pepper cream cornbread and brussel sprouts

You lost me at brussel sprouts.

[PaceyWinger]

What a BAALLLL! Such a great long distance cross. That was a beauty find.

[MightyDM]

I wonder if we shouldn’t go a back three of Omar Mavinga and Morrow with Gallagher and Laryea / Auro? Would hide Omar’s weakness and emphasize the strengths of our fullbacks as wing backs

[OgtheDim]

Premier league quality cross


He's very good with the ball & with his passes and positioning. He'll make mistakes and has no right foot but I think he's our LB next year.

[Auzzy]

Nice! I was almost done with a long post, how nobody on this team can put in a decent cross, especially tonight, even when TFC players are open near goal. Then I had to delete what I wrote, the Scottish kid puts in a perfect cross, more of that! Hopefully that skill doesn't get coached out of him...

Tony had another great cross a few minutes later, unfortunately a TFC player that was not the intended target got in the way.

[MightyDM]

Referee just got In The way again He must be very new

[rydermike]

We've made two injury subs. Meaning we only have one sub opportunity left. When will Vanney make the triple sub? Or a double sub only?

[Bushmancan]

Game intensity just picked up... need to keep playing hard

[SirBobSaget]

Piatti is running himself ragged, don't think he's gonna last the full 90

[Auzzy]

COME ON PIATTI! 3 open TFC players in front of net, and Piatti passes it straight to the first Union player.

[rydermike]

I thought that was in for a second. So close

[alex andrew]

hope philly doesn't throw us a trap, they keep resting....we exhaust ourselves....

[NK Toronto]

I am not sure Piatti was an upgrade over Benezet

[Bushmancan]

Did Caldwell just say something optimistic... or did I mishear?

[rydermike]

Is that Pozo's first header goal?

[tfcfans]

Nice play!!! MVP!!!

[Bushmancan]

I was just saying when was the last time we scored on a corner. Amazing flick from Mavinga. Great finish!!!

[alex andrew]

bravo poz !

[Bushmancan]

Do not sit back...

[notthesun]

MVP.

[MightyDM]

F’n good f’n team

[ag futbol]

Do not sit back...
I second this. Keep your foot on the gas

[OgtheDim]

Philly is a good team but everybody in this league makes at least 1 big mistake in defence per game - we seem to have made ours and they seem to have made theirs.

DON'T PARK THE BUS!

[benito]

Poz!!!!!!

Keep pressing and don't drop back!

[rydermike]

Fraser and Nelson in for Piatti and Delgado is my prediction. Do not under any circumstances put in Ciman for a back 3

[wopchop]

Can we bring the Brass Bonaza back home to BMO?

[Auzzy]

What a beautiful goal!

A couple of our guys are pretty gassed. Vanney please please please make some subs NOW! Delgado off, not sure who else. And keep pressing!

[Bushmancan]

Fraser and Nelson in for Piatti and Delgado is my prediction. Do not under any circumstances put in Ciman for a back 3


I could live with that ... keep the four in the back, And keep them honest with the counter or grab possession and press.

[rydermike]

Can we bring the Brass Bonaza back home to BMO?

If TFC doesn't do it, get the guy holding the megaphone to play it off his phone into the megaphone

[alex andrew]

hope philly doesn't throw us a trap, they keep resting....we exhaust ourselves....

mmm.....tfc tfc tfc...

[PaceyWinger]

If TFC doesn't do it, get the guy holding the megaphone to play it off his phone into the megaphone

If TFC can win it this season I think you could make a case that the supporters should SING brass bonanza at some moment. That would be pretty awesome.

[Auzzy]

Wow nice header Tony, Philly had two players open on that side.

"Defensive move" on the subs, STFU Caldwell, please not, press press press!!

[James17930]

If we park the bus and try to sit back again I'm going to scream.

[Bushmancan]

When Piatti finally gets in a grove, he really is going to cause damage. I know he hasn't scored but he is doing all the right things.

[alex andrew]

piatti's going to do it one day...he knows he's not the real self....we'll see..

go reds !

[Auzzy]

If we park the bus and try to sit back again I'm going to scream.

Exactly!

[OgtheDim]

Bus now firmly parked

[alex andrew]

bus no bus we get a point !

[MightyDM]

I am not sure Piatti was an upgrade over Benezet

He is a significant upgrade. Not even debatable.

[Bushmancan]

Gallagher has to do better there...

[Auzzy]

4 minutes, crap...

[alex andrew]

we suffered enough in 2007 2008 2009 in extratime...it won't happen !

[Bushmancan]

Great hard working and enjoyable game(s).

[benito]

Solid win!!

[tfcfans]

Yay!!!!

[rydermike]

Vanney took off his mask to go shake the hands of the other coaches. Defeats the whole purpose of wearing one lol

[Auzzy]

Gallagher has to do better there...

Yup that one was WAY too scary...

[MightyDM]

Fine margins. But we are better

[OgtheDim]

effin team


effin works

[alex andrew]

Fine margins. But we are better

yes we were

[ag futbol]

Great job by the team. If we had a consistent striker up front we’d be unplayable in this form

Edit: maybe I should give Akinola more credit.

[GerMc]

Well done, lads! A bit of a brain fart on their goal, but both of ours were beautiful :-)

Maybe we are becoming a second half team...sometimes it is a little too much for my heart though!

[Mikmacdo]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?

[James17930]

Nervy last few minutes.

Good win.

[MightyDM]

I would hate to be a supporter of a team playing us right now

[Auzzy]

Very nice 2nd half. Piatti and everyone got better.

Wow what a turnaround, beating some of the top teams: Columbus, NYC, Philly. Never would have thought that after Vancouver and DC.

[PaceyWinger]

Vanney took off his mask to go shake the hands of the other coaches. Defeats the whole purpose of wearing one lol

It's mainly a chin warmer for him at this point most times they pan to him.

[OgtheDim]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?


Yes

Because Poz is just that good.

I'm not sure where to put Bradley right now & without Jozy, we are more balanced.

[PaceyWinger]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?
Jozy is incredible when he's there but if we had another DP to play with Pozuelo that could stay on the field even as much as Piatti we would be pretty tough to beat.

[bhandsome90]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?

If they're in form. We are better. Team is still missing a winger to play opposite Piatti.

[tfcfans]

Not super short term.....see you in November, maybe...

[alex andrew]

halibut, mashed potatoes, tomato salad, bitburger

bravo tfc !

[NK Toronto]

Once again we have shown that in Hartford we play better when attacking the goal to the right side of the field

[tfcfans]

Two turf games in less than a week - let’s hope we are still healthy after those two....I’m always nervous playing in NE, a notoriously bad piece of turf....

[Mikmacdo]

If they're in form. We are better. Team is still missing a winger to play opposite Piatti.

Laryea! I loved him at left wing.

[NK Toronto]

Yes

Because Poz is just that good.

I'm not sure where to put Bradley right now & without Jozy, we are more balanced.

Didn't Bradley play CB 2 years ago when Moor was out? Right now we lack depth in that role

[MightyDM]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?

Nope.

But I think that’s the last we see of Jozy on this club. For me, that’s really too bad and I think we will regret losing an elite striker with his skills - but this will be the last straw.

[zorsofstesab]

Interesting stat for Kristian Jack. Jozy has played in only 44% of TFC's 20 games this year. A total of 1830 minutes of play and Jozy only played 806 minutes. Let that sink in. Someone earlier told me they were not in the mood for an argument about his playing this year. I can see why now.

Wait can you hear it coming from Jozy. Our training staff is shit!!

[MightyDM]

Yes

Because Poz is just that good.

I'm not sure where to put Bradley right now & without Jozy, we are more balanced.

Bradley is head and shoulders a better player than Marky and Oso (my favourite player on the club). When healthy, he plays. But Jozy just let his lack of fitness end his TFC career. This is the end. And he is my wife’s fav.

[tfcfans]

Go FC Dallas!

[OgtheDim]

Bradley is head and shoulders a better player than Marky and Oso (my favourite player on the club). When healthy, he plays. But Jozy just let his lack of fitness end his TFC career. This is the end. And he is my wife’s fav.


My issue with Bradley is he plays a Deep Lying Playmaker position that we don't really need right now. Right now, everybody but the top striker comes back to the ball. We move it better that way.

All this is because Poz is just so darn good in his roll as that AM.

[ag futbol]

Bradley is head and shoulders a better player than Marky and Oso (my favourite player on the club). When healthy, he plays. But Jozy just let his lack of fitness end his TFC career. This is the end. And he is my wife’s fav.
Bradley is great, don’t get me wrong. His ability to cover ground and break up the play is the best in the league in my opinion. But... there’s just something about his presence in midfield that makes the team a little less fluid when we have the ball.

Osirio and Delgado were brilliant tonight as a double pivot

[MightyDM]

Interesting stat for Kristian Jack. Jozy has played in only 44% of TFC's 20 games this year. A total of 1830 minutes of play and Jozy only played 806 minutes. Let that sink in. Someone earlier told me they were not in the mood for an argument about his playing this year. I can see why now.

Wait can you hear it coming from Jozy. Our training staff is shit!!

He is the second or third best player we have ever had, has scored critical goals at critical moments to win, and is still dominant. I don’t get the hate. I’m sad. But I do think this was his last game for us.

[NK Toronto]

The field in Dallas has American football lines. I don't know why MLS put teams in Texas.

[MightyDM]

Bradley is great, don’t get me wrong. His ability to cover ground and break up the play is the best in the league in my opinion. But... there’s just something about his presence in midfield that makes the team a little less fluid when we have the ball.

Osirio and Delgado were brilliant tonight as a double pivot

Fair. But when he is fit, he plays and he leads.

[OgtheDim]

He is the second or third best player we have ever had, has scored critical goals at Coro to all moments to win, and is still dominant. I don’t get the hate. I’m sad. But I do think this was his last game for us.


I love Jozy but I no longer think he & Poz can play together on this team like they were last season. Jozy is trying really hard to get it done as that mobile striker picking up things. And he was effective in that role. But, we play better without him.

[OgtheDim]

The field in Dallas has American football lines. I don't know why MLS put teams in Texas.


Just wait until Wednesday night in Foxboro.

[bhandsome90]

Laryea! I loved him at left wing.

I would like to see him at the right wing with Piatti in his natural left wing spot, once Auro is back.

[Bushmancan]

Have to be honest, I really enjoyed the past two games. We played up to and better than our competition.

But, we need to thump a team and I mean demoralize someone. Not to play down to their level ... lets hope it is finally NE when a few of the other guys break out.

[MightyDM]

Bradley is great, don’t get me wrong. His ability to cover ground and break up the play is the best in the league in my opinion. But... there’s just something about his presence in midfield that makes the team a little less fluid when we have the ball.

Osirio and Delgado were brilliant tonight as a double pivot

If needs be he will change his role the same way he changed his DP status.

[NK Toronto]

He is a significant upgrade. Not even debatable.

Time for Piatti to score a goal against someone other than Vancouver.

[MightyDM]

Time for Piatti to score a goal against someone other than Vancouver.

I dunno. We seem to be doing ok against the best teams in Our conference

[MightyDM]

For example, Lucas Cavallini is a terrific player for Canada and a competent MLS player. But nowhere near Jozy. Like not even making the subs bench

[DinamoTFC]

I am not sure Piatti was an upgrade over Benezet

Piatti is definitely an upgrade. Very fluid and makes the attack much better. He's more of a supporting cast player. If we had a Seba like forward He'd shine even more. He should be a max paid TAM player but not a DP in my opinion.

[DinamoTFC]

Nice! I was almost done with a long post, how nobody on this team can put in a decent cross, especially tonight, even when TFC players are open near goal. Then I had to delete what I wrote, the Scottish kid puts in a perfect cross, more of that! Hopefully that skill doesn't get coached out of him...

Tony had another great cross a few minutes later, unfortunately a TFC player that was not the intended target got in the way.

Agree! One of the things that frustrated me the most with our fullbacks is their inability to make good crosses. But that whip by Tony was a breath of fresh air!

[NK Toronto]

I dunno. We seem to be doing ok against the best teams in Our conference

I don't dispute that. My point is that l expected more from Piatti given his pedigree and DP status. In reality we are only playing with one true DP calibre player at the moment.

[DinamoTFC]

F’n good f’n team

Team is f'n working hard again. Games are exciting to watch again.

[OgtheDim]

If needs be he will change his role the same way he changed his DP status.


To what though? The guy has been "THE" play starter since 2014. How's he going to fit into a midfield with Poz at the point where the pivots run around so much & the interchange is constant? Got to fit him in somewhere, but where?

[DinamoTFC]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?

I hate to say it but Bradley has aged and slows down the midfield. I love the workrate and speed of play from the central midfielders (Osorio, Delgado, Poz).

[DinamoTFC]

Interesting stat for Kristian Jack. Jozy has played in only 44% of TFC's 20 games this year. A total of 1830 minutes of play and Jozy only played 806 minutes. Let that sink in. Someone earlier told me they were not in the mood for an argument about his playing this year. I can see why now.

Wait can you hear it coming from Jozy. Our training staff is shit!!
Once again I love Jozy because of his love and dedication to this city and club. I really do.

But 1.5 million dollar pay raise for an injury prone Jozy who's not in the mood to play this year was Manning's worst panic decision. Which may hold us hostage for another year if we can find an interested buyer.

[DinamoTFC]

Wow what a turnaround, beating some of the top teams: Columbus, NYC, Philly. Never would have thought that after Vancouver and DC.

We are definitely a cocky team. We underestimate and play half ass against weaker teams.

And rise to our level against proper teams because we like to prove we are better.

Frustrating at times lol

[DinamoTFC]

To what though? The guy has been "THE" play starter since 2014. How's he going to fit into a midfield with Poz at the point where the pivots run around so much & the interchange is constant? Got to fit him in somewhere, but where?

Only way is if Bradley chooses to play the same style we are currently playing. He needs to play like Osorio/Delgado have the past 3 games. He needs to go back to his old box to box midfield style and not a deep lying playmaker. If he can't do that than I agree he's be better on the bench.

[MightyDM]

Only way is if Bradley chooses to play the same style we are currently playing. He needs to play like Osorio/Delgado have the past 3 games. He needs to go back to his old box to box midfield style and not a deep lying playmaker. If he can't do that than I agree he's be better on the bench.

No way we are better with MB on the bench. Just no way.

[OgtheDim]

Only way is if Bradley chooses to play the same style we are currently playing. He needs to play like Osorio/Delgado have the past 3 games. He needs to go back to his old box to box midfield style and not a deep lying playmaker. If he can't do that than I agree he's be better on the bench.

(Knowing full well he is likely to come into a game & surprise us and we will all go "oh yeah, that's what he can do)

I think he's a situational player against certain teams that press high & want the ball - like NYC did. At the base of a 4-1-4-1 where he slides over to where an onrushing FB left from, he'd be OK. A slower version of what Osorio played against NYC.

But against a team like Philly or DCU or CBus, he'd be a second half sub for me.

[SirBobSaget]

For example, Lucas Cavallini is a terrific player for Canada and a competent MLS player. But nowhere near Jozy. Like not even making the subs bench
This is really confusing. Any sane person would take Cavallini right now over Jozy. jozy is either injured, getting into fitness, not motivated or for 2% of the season motivated and healthy. Jozy is done if his contract continues then TFC is in a world of hurt.

[reggie]

if we cant move jozy,i see a buyout at the end of the season.

[TFC1154ever]

Bradley is great, don’t get me wrong. His ability to cover ground and break up the play is the best in the league in my opinion. But... there’s just something about his presence in midfield that makes the team a little less fluid when we have the ball.

Osirio and Delgado were brilliant tonight as a double pivot

We’re arguing about the teams good depth in the middle of park. Good problem to have. And when you have to play 40+ games next year, if we get into champions league, you will need 5/6 player rotating the DM/CM/AM roles.

Bradley, Osorio, Delgado, Fraser, Pozuelo, and Deleon, when needed, is as good depth as you will find in the MLS.

[portu]

Interesting stat for Kristian Jack. Jozy has played in only 44% of TFC's 20 games this year. A total of 1830 minutes of play and Jozy only played 806 minutes. Let that sink in. Someone earlier told me they were not in the mood for an argument about his playing this year. I can see why now.

Wait can you hear it coming from Jozy. Our training staff is shit!!
Fun fact: Jozy only passed Seba’s games played total this year. Seba’s been gone since the end of the 2018 season.

This was another good performance. I give full credit to the coaching staff on this one.

[James17930]

Fun fact: Jozy only passed Seba’s games played total this year. Seba’s been gone since the end of the 2018 season.

This was another good performance. I give full credit to the coaching staff on this one.

I thought Vanney did something smart at the end there.

Instead of subbing on defenders and having everyone sit back, he put on Mullins and Endoh and told them to run their asses off and press Philly back in their own end as much as possible.

Much better strategy.

[OgtheDim]

Mullins is really good at late game defensive forward work.

Like a lot of players on this team, he's got a role in certain situations.

[MightyDM]

This is really confusing. Any sane person would take Cavallini right now over Jozy. jozy is either injured, getting into fitness, not motivated or for 2% of the season motivated and healthy. Jozy is done if his contract continues then TFC is in a world of hurt.

You selectively misquoted my post. Who does that? The point I was making is that it is very difficult to find strikers of Jozy’s caliber. Who score goals. MLS and the premier league are full of examples. Including our own history as a club. For all the Jozy haters, be careful what you wish for is the point I was making.
If you disagree, think it’s easy to score goals, and can point to several available strikers of Jozy’s caliber I’d be quite interested to learn their names. But it’s not Cavallini.

[OgtheDim]

Jozy occupies space in a way that Akinola does not. Think of it this way. Until a few weeks ago, nobody cared if Laryea went one on one with a FB because he wasn't so successful. Last night, Philly ALWAYS had a second guy nearby ready to jump in on that side. This cleared up the middle channel for Poz & Piatti. This is what good attackers do - they make teams adjust.

Altidore does the same thing. His ability to do something is well known so when playing as a lone striker or up top with a second, teams have to adjust. Even last night, with Jozy coming back deep and we in essence playing in a very narrow 4-2-3-1, a player always went with him when he came back deep to pass off.

Akinola does not do occupy that mental space yet. Nor does Piatti, truth be known. If bother or either of those players start banging them in regularly, space will open up for other players attacking and our ball movement will naturally get a lot quicker. This is also why wide speed who can cross is very important.

This is the difference between the strikers Philly has (decent but nobody is going to adjust their defence around them) & somebody like Altidore or Vela or Higuian down at Miami.

[CBTFC]

Deja Vu. We have a mediocre to decent first half, some magic voodoo sage burning ritual in the dressing room at halftime, then we come out looking like one of the best teams in the world in the second half.

If this is how we grind out wins, I don't mind. I wasn't sure if we were going to be this capable without Bradley, but here we are.

Poz & Piatti look like they've been playing together for a decade, so enjoyable to watch.

[ag futbol]

For example, Lucas Cavallini is a terrific player for Canada and a competent MLS player. But nowhere near Jozy. Like not even making the subs bench
Cavallini has done his reputation a huge disservice by taking a fat paycheque from an awful team where he gets basically zero support.

What you really get with him is a traditional number nine with good holdup play and average goal scoring potential. He’ll probably get you more like 10-12 a year rather than 15-20. But he stays healthy and works his socks off. He’s realistically a borderline TAM DP worth $1 million - 1.5 million a year that Vancouver had to drastically overpay for.

I can see where you are coming from, if we look back at their careers or “best” play Altidore wins hands down. But I think the best of Altidore has since past and Today’s Cavalinni > Today’s Altidore to me seems like a fair judgment.

[ManUtd4ever]

Another gutsy comeback win. Love the effort the last few games.

Sucks to lose Jozy (again), but Akinola is more than capable. Gallacher looked good too.

[CBTFC]

Gallacher looked good too.

Completely forgot to mention that stellar cross by Gallacher. With all due respect to Morrow, Auro Jr and Richie, but their crosses rarely have that "look" to them. Gallacher made it look effortless.

[Derko]

We've made two injury subs. Meaning we only have one sub opportunity left. When will Vanney make the triple sub? Or a double sub only?

5 subs now

[Auzzy]

We've made two injury subs. Meaning we only have one sub opportunity left. When will Vanney make the triple sub? Or a double sub only?


5 subs now

Yes 5 subs total, but you can only make them at 3 different opportunities. Since we already had two individual subs due to injuries, Vanney only had one more opportunity to make any changes. At that point, he could have subbed in 1, 2 or 3 players at the same time. In the 86th minute, Vanney chose to put in two players.

[KRO]

Much as love Bradley who does he replace? They’ve won 3 difficult games without him. I don’t see him making that great long pass Delgado made to Gallagher for the first goal. He’ll get back in when they rotate or get an injury.

[MikeForbes]

The midfield is better without everyone forcing passes to Bradley to get the play started. Delgado is in very good form right now and Osorio has become the most consistent player in the squad and I would hate to see him shifted out to the left again.

[SoccMan2]

Completely forgot to mention that stellar cross by Gallacher. With all due respect to Morrow, Auro Jr and Richie, but their crosses rarely have that "look" to them. Gallacher made it look effortless.
Lol come on now really? Ya I’m sure Morrow has put in a lot of good crosses over the years like that one, especially in the 2017 season when Morrow was the best left back in the league it want even close . Moreover , Richie Laryea has has some amazing assists this season and even last season . I know Gallacher is from the Liverpool organization but let’s not exaggerate now on one nice cross because he comes from a very good EPL organization, and say that no TFC defender has very rarely or is not as capable to put in a good cross in like that , come on now lol!

[OgtheDim]

The midfield is better without everyone forcing passes to Bradley to get the play started. .

This is my issue with Bradley coming back - he demands to be the focal point for the beginning of play. That is MLS circa 4 years ago. Teams can key on who he is trying to pass to. We are much better when less predictable. e.g. I counted 3 times when Mavinga carried it forward yesterday into their half.

[rydermike]

Yes 5 subs total, but you can only make them at 3 different opportunities. Since we already had two individual subs due to injuries, Vanney only had one more opportunity to make any changes. At that point, he could have subbed in 1, 2 or 3 players at the same time. In the 86th minute, Vanney chose to put in two players.

Yes, this is what I meant by the triple sub. Only one last sub opportunity. Perhaps, I could've worded it a bit better.

[Gazza_55]

I am not sure Piatti was an upgrade over Benezet

Benezet was good player for us last season but he's been absolute garbage for Colorado. Piatti is three times the player.

[Red CB Toronto]

Yes 5 subs total, but you can only make them at 3 different opportunities. Since we already had two individual subs due to injuries, Vanney only had one more opportunity to make any changes. At that point, he could have subbed in 1, 2 or 3 players at the same time. In the 86th minute, Vanney chose to put in two players.

Does halftime count as one of three if you make a change coming into the second half?

[rydermike]

Does halftime count as one of three if you make a change coming into the second half?

No, it doesn't. Only "game interruption" subs count to the three.

[portu]

Genuinely believe this team can go all the way if we cut out the silly errors. Our trajectory for next year also looks very good if we can capitalize on areas of severe deficiency (Jozy has not been anywhere near to DP quality this year, Piatti is also debatable though still a good player).

[portu]

This is my issue with Bradley coming back - he demands to be the focal point for the beginning of play. That is MLS circa 4 years ago. Teams can key on who he is trying to pass to. We are much better when less predictable. e.g. I counted 3 times when Mavinga carried it forward yesterday into their half.
Bradley has definitely slowed down through the years. I wonder if it has anything to do with him trying to conserve energy? It it does, then it may make more sense playing him every other game at 100%. As opposed to every game at ~80%.

I still think the best I’ve seen him consistently play was aggressively in Nelsen’s 4-4-2 and as the 10 in Vanney’s 2015 diamond. Leaving Oso where he is and having him fit as a cog in the wheel as opposed to being the actual wheel might work better when comes back.

Front three of Poz, Ayo, Piatti. Midfield of Delgado, Bradley with Oso sitting behind them. Let Michael be a pitbull and attack more freely.

[MightyDM]

After watching Harry Maguire and Eric Bailey then Joe Gomez and Virgil VanDyke I feel less bad about Omar’s recent play.

[CBTFC]

Lol come on now really? Ya I’m sure Morrow has put in a lot of good crosses over the years like that one, especially in the 2017 season when Morrow was the best left back in the league it want even close . Moreover , Richie Laryea has has some amazing assists this season and even last season . I know Gallacher is from the Liverpool organization but let’s not exaggerate now on one nice cross because he comes from a very good EPL organization, and say that no TFC defender has very rarely or is not as capable to put in a good cross in like that , come on now lol!

Just my perspective :)

[portu]

Lol come on now really? Ya I’m sure Morrow has put in a lot of good crosses over the years like that one, especially in the 2017 season when Morrow was the best left back in the league it want even close . Moreover , Richie Laryea has has some amazing assists this season and even last season . I know Gallacher is from the Liverpool organization but let’s not exaggerate now on one nice cross because he comes from a very good EPL organization, and say that no TFC defender has very rarely or is not as capable to put in a good cross in like that , come on now lol!
Morrow was more Laryea style at his peak iirc, no real crosses more cut backs and stuff driven across the 6

[Prof]

Are we better without Bradley and Jozy?

That is exactly what I was also thinking. I think Bradley will fit back into the midfield and will help us down the stretch and moving Pozuelo up in a 4-4-1-1 formation behind Akinola. Jozy's game is too slow for the palyers we now have.:hump:

[bhandsome90]

Bradley has definitely slowed down through the years. I wonder if it has anything to do with him trying to conserve energy? It it does, then it may make more sense playing him every other game at 100%. As opposed to every game at ~80%.

I still think the best I’ve seen him consistently play was aggressively in Nelsen’s 4-4-2 and as the 10 in Vanney’s 2015 diamond. Leaving Oso where he is and having him fit as a cog in the wheel as opposed to being the actual wheel might work better when comes back.

Front three of Poz, Ayo, Piatti. Midfield of Delgado, Bradley with Oso sitting behind them. Let Michael be a pitbull and attack more freely.

Someone finally recognizes and appreciates Oso's play as a DM, but I'd prefer a double pivot.

[CBTFC]

Been reflecting on our past 3 results. We've had 3 narrow victories against NYCFC, Columbus and Philly. All 3 have been playing consistently well, and in each game we found a way to win against them.

This team has found another gear, despite miscues and mistakes here and there. That's the sign of a solid team, not just individuals.

Trust the process ;)

[burlington Red]

Didn't Bradley play CB 2 years ago when Moor was out? Right now we lack depth in that role

yes couple of CONCACAF games and one v Chicago

[Initial B]

Someone finally recognizes and appreciates Oso's play as a DM, but I'd prefer a double pivot.
The MLS website had some advanced statistics and showed that Osorio was one of the top 3 players in the league regarding miles run during a game. Must have learned from Bradley. :)

[NK Toronto]

Benezet was good player for us last season but he's been absolute garbage for Colorado. Piatti is three times the player.

Piatti is a DP whereas Benezet was TAM. For a DP I expect more than what we are getting from Piatti.

[OgtheDim]

The space that Piatti occupies in the minds of defenders & thus allows others space to operate is worth the DP.

One reason why Poz is having such a great season is teams can not double or triple team him like they were doing near the end of last season.

Without Piatti, there is no this year's Poz.