Match Day CCL Rnd of 16 Leg 1 - TFC @ Leon Wed April 7 8pm - But Yes I'm Still Runnin

[OgtheDim]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3-5YC_oHjE


Its time....

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

Have at It People

[Red CB Toronto]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3-5YC_oHjE


Its time....

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

Have at It People

I assume TSN has this game?

[MikeForbes]

Just wanna see the boys put in a shift and give Leon a competitive tie. If anything it will be a great preseason.

[OgtheDim]

I assume TSN has this game?


According to the CCL page, TSN has the rights. However, go to that date on the TSN schedule and its not there yet.

[Bushmancan]

Just wanna see the boys put in a shift and give Leon a competitive tie. If anything it will be a great preseason.

I really want to be surprised and I don't like being so pessimistic. But as we all know, the two most important areas we hoped would be re-inforced haven't. Fingers crossed we have misjudged this window and we have more depth than we thought.

[MikeForbes]

After listening to the commentary over on OneSoccer this month, I pray TSN has the CCL. I'll take hearing what country Osorio represents 2000 times a game over Wheeler or this other guy doing the Olympic Qualifying.

[OgtheDim]

Hint for one soccer

Go to the settings

Change the Audio to the 2nd choice

You just get the in stadium mics

[MikeForbes]

Hint for one soccer

Go to the settings

Change the Audio to the 2nd choice

You just get the in stadium mics

You sir are a hero.

[noxx98]

After listening to the commentary over on OneSoccer this month, I pray TSN has the CCL. I'll take hearing what country Osorio represents 2000 times a game over Wheeler or this other guy doing the Olympic Qualifying.
The broadcast with David Edgar was awful. I know we rag on Caldwell sometimes for never saying anything nice about TFC since he doesn’t want to appear biased, but Edgar was carrying water for everything Canada did.

[MikeForbes]

The broadcast with David Edgar was awful. I know we rag on Caldwell sometimes for never saying anything nice about TFC since he doesn’t want to appear biased, but Edgar was carrying water for everything Canada did.

I felt like I was listening to a podcast over the game for 90% of the broadcast.

[Richard]

I'd rather listen to the Spanish commentary, and not understand a word than any of our so called announcers.

Stop feeding me bullshit stats, I watch soccer to decompress not overload my brain with that nonsense. Let the game flow.

Man I miss the World Cup announcers and their solo play by play.

[MikeForbes]

The Champions League is on OneSoccer. So, get that mute button ready.

[OgtheDim]

Here's hoping that AUD2 thing still works cause Wheeler is painful.

[portu]

Here's hoping that AUD2 thing still works cause Wheeler is painful.
I just came here to say exactly this. Glad to see we’re all on the same page haha

[Red CB Toronto]

Going with One Soccer for this is crap, I would assume if TSN was at the table they would have gotten it, so it really shows how TSN and Sportnets feel about soccer.

[MikeForbes]

Pretty sure the only person who likes Wheeler's commentary is Gareth Wheeler.

[SoccMan2]

Won’t be surprised if you also see TSN eventually getting out of showing TFC and Whitecaps and Montreal games and any other MLS games just a matter of time .

[Smokecell]

Wow OneSoccer for champions league really sucks

[Bushmancan]

Wow OneSoccer for champions league really sucks

The only answer is they don’t expect them to do well.

EDIT. where do you see One Soccer. I saw TSN.ca and the TSN app, which is better but just as barely.

Edit 2 .. just saw the link https://twitter.com/onesoccer/status/1376670730277027848?s=21

Sorry guys, just cancelled my SSH but will remain a RPB

[Smokecell]

The only answer is they don’t expect them to do well.

Thinking about this a bit more - TSN fired KJ and Caldwell will be in mandatory quarantine upon return from CANMNT duty so could be due to staffing, in fairness.

[portu]

Thinking about this a bit more - TSN fired KJ and Caldwell will be in mandatory quarantine upon return from CANMNT duty so could be due to staffing, in fairness.
I’m hoping TSN just sold rights to One Soccer for the round of 16 only.

[daner90]

Wow garbage news for TFC fans. Way to really drive the viewership for the champions league!

What a surprise the news comes from one soccer and it's crickets from our head office.

[reggie]

I had enough of tsn and sn.they own the bloody team,time for me to cut the cord.i wont take ONE serious until they get a proper broadcast crew its like watching your local community cable channel,sign up KJ

[noxx98]

OneSoccer isn’t all bad. Sharman is great, I enjoy Platt, and Petrillo does a good job.
I think Wheeler’s enthusiasm plays better in shorter bits rather than being the voice for 90 minutes.

Hopefully they bring Sharman and other big names back for Champions league.

[ag futbol]

Won’t be surprised if you also see TSN eventually getting out of showing TFC and Whitecaps and Montreal games and any other MLS games just a matter of time .
Generally agree. Now that said, as opposed to just signalling their distaste for MLS or televised soccer, I think it’s maybe the start of these networks own existential crisis.

You’re seeing contracts in the US where Amazon and google are bullying their way into live broadcasts. Leagues have long since offered a direct-to-consumer subscription option (yet Canada continues to offer watered down garbage under the same name).

The whole space is ripe for change.

[kottisinick]

The only answer is they don’t expect them to do well.





EDIT. where do you see One Soccer. I saw TSN.ca and the TSN app, which is better but just as barely.

Edit 2 .. just saw the link https://twitter.com/onesoccer/status/1376670730277027848?s=21

Sorry guys, just cancelled my SSH but will remain a RPB

What was ur reason for cancelling ur ssh. I thinking of doing the same but sure yet

[Blindside16]

What I find even more mind numbing and funny is that TSN got rid of KJ, yet if you go to the soccer section on TSNs website and scroll down under the TSN on Twitter section it is KJ

[nfitz]

I’m hoping TSN just sold rights to One Soccer for the round of 16 only.Why would TSN want any of the other rights?

I'm not sure why anyone is surprised after TSN fired so many people at the end of last season. No one picked up the EUFA World Cup Qualifiers (other than a couple of Italy/Portugal games on TLN) - not even DAZN.

It's on One Soccer or nowhere. Besides, it's not like One Soccer is expensive ... $6.25 a month if you subscribe annually. I've saved far more than that on beer since lockdown started.

And doesn't everyone already have One Soccer as it's now got all the Canada games?

[Bushmancan]

What was ur reason for cancelling ur ssh. I thinking of doing the same but sure yet

Going to be hard to keep it short and I want to try to capture it correctly.

Been going since year one, bought SSH a little later on and for sure, I am not stopping following the team or being a RPB.

Everyone has their own reason for letting them hold their money, for me it was a contract that i believed would be to continue building TFC, keep some people in their jobs, etc. . I understood the pandemic but i thought the 10% for overpriced concession credits was insulting. Serious, they could have been thoughtful and given a for SSH only limited edition and signed keychain, hat, shirt (just an example, not saying) and that would have contained more value and appreciation.

Screwing up the mailing was beyond pathetic... shit happens, I know. But that was inexcusable in the line of work that I do.

The transfer window has been bad, I even understand not getting Borre. But this reminds me of Teams that drop rumours just to appease fans but have no real intention or direction. The "its hard" comment was sad.

We all know that we likely won’t see many games in person this year, after getting to one last year. it is their responsibility to make the games available to the fans, full stop. I got hooked on TFC because of the Live Experience... I wasn't originally a football fan.

Their corporate parents are the two largest media companies in Canada (one just announced a $21B merger)and they control both major Sports Networks. Their profits in some areas are actually higher.... so back to Leiweke, it is so much easier to keep TFC a winner, watch how difficult it will be for the Raptors. (they are going to need a major break to stay relevant). I expect team leadership to fight for budget, it is hard sometimes to stand up to a board. There is no indication he hasn't done that, but there is no indication he has. Even in his town hall.

Only thing we hear is Ali and Manning got contract extensions, so job security over performance could be interpreted.

Trying not to be cynical and nothing against OneSoccer (it should be supported) they negotiated part of this deal last January 2020 but introducing a new subscription service for the team a week before the game... unbelievable. TFC could fund the subscription for one month for SSH that's a $100-200k but grows their base, grows OneSoccer builds a caring brand.... IT IS TOO EASY.

TFC can manage optics very easy... perhaps it will be dual broadcast (maybe a different SSH credit) but we don't know. To let someone announce this in advance and not say anything tells me the PR department has no clue what's going on or understand ands how to embrace the fanbase. Oh wait, they do know how to post on twitter and instagram and probably have great metrics.

I do not doubt, I will again be a SSH. TBH, I don't think it will be difficult, considering how they are disengaging the fans. I think the management have messed this up so bad; they broke my contract and don't deserve my money right now (it took a lot). It is my only recourse.

I don't know if that helps but right or wrong that is how I came to the decision.

"All for One"

[ensco]

Networks have figured out that events that don’t get any incremental ratings (like an early round TFC CCL game, which will for sure get less than 100K) are not worth anything. Advertisers don’t value a soccer audience, they will pay the same as they would for everything else that draws flies, eg darts or a Leafs rebroadcast or whatever.

So whatever TSN can get from onesoccer or whomever is better than keeping it. They will just take it back if/when a Canadian team advances deep enough.

[Bushmancan]

Networks have figured out that events that don’t get any incremental ratings (like an early round TFC CCL game, which will for sure get less than 100K) are not worth anything. Advertisers don’t value a soccer audience, they will pay the same as they would for everything else that draws flies, eg darts or a Leafs rebroadcast or whatever.

So whatever TSN can get from onesoccer or whomever is better than keeping it. They will just take it back if/when a Canadian team advances deep enough.

I agree if all you measure is ratings and clicks. The one mistake with this is there is a longer term goodwill that isn't measured with specific ad placements. I have no doubt that Manning and Curtis are Soccer people, but long term goodwill and brand development in a market like Toronto is trickier than most realize. You cannot nickel and dime.

[Red CB Toronto]

Networks have figured out that events that don’t get any incremental ratings (like an early round TFC CCL game, which will for sure get less than 100K) are not worth anything. Advertisers don’t value a soccer audience, they will pay the same as they would for everything else that draws flies, eg darts or a Leafs rebroadcast or whatever.

So whatever TSN can get from onesoccer or whomever is better than keeping it. They will just take it back if/when a Canadian team advances deep enough.

The only value I could see for TSN would be from a technical aspect of getting a feel for doing a broadcast from Orlando as they will have to do once the regular season starts for TFC home games, but then I realized the Reds home leg vs Leon is actually being played at Osceola County Stadium in Kissimme, former of Orlando City's USL team.

[Red CB Toronto]

I agree if all you measure is ratings and clicks. The one mistake with this is there is a longer term goodwill that isn't measured with specific ad placements. I have no doubt that Manning and Curtis are Soccer people, but long term goodwill and brand development in a market like Toronto is trickier than most realize. You cannot nickel and dime.

I think honestly they probably did not have a choice or say in this decision to pass it on One Soccer for whatever they got, even though TSN is a partner in MLSE. Each department, subsidiary etc has their own responsibility to their bottom line, whatever makes sense for them.

[noxx98]

I think honestly they probably did not have a choice or say in this decision to pass it on One Soccer for whatever they got, even though TSN is a partner in MLSE. Each department, subsidiary etc has their own responsibility to their bottom line, whatever makes sense for them.
Although you're probably right on this, someone needs to recognize that this is a case of the "sum is greater than individual parts". If TSN carries the CCL, it's a loss leader, but it grows the profile of their other asset (TFC) and increases the marketability of the team and improves in stadium advertising revenue as well.

I think Rogers has done a good job of this with the Jays (for the most part). They've realized that the Jays can just be a giant billboard for anything related to Rogers Wireless, internet, cable, etc. Perhaps harder with MLSE due to the shared ownership structure.

[OgtheDim]

Giving these games to OneSoccer makes TSN look better with the CSA, seeing as OneSoccer is basically the CPL's version of SUM.

All about 2026.

[MikeForbes]

I wonder how sustainable OneSoccer is. They seem to be paying for a lot of rights to random leagues and I am not sure they can bring in enough subscribers to turn a profit on any of them.

I consider myself a pretty big fan and I only subscribe to them for months like these where they have NT games and now CCL. If TFC goes out against Leon I will likely cancel my subscription until June. 10 bucks isn't much, but all the different streaming services to watch soccer really adds up.

[ensco]

It's funny about cable. Bundling like that doesn't make sense long term. Cord cutting grows every year. But it takes a long time for consumer behaviour to really change.

Reminds me of Blockbuster. Everyone knew it would die, but it took 20+ years for video on demand to really happen.

If Blockbuster is the right comparable cable will go from dying gradually to dying suddenly with the snap of a finger.

Give poor onesoccer and all the rest a break. Netflix was crap too at the beginning, for years.

I suspect we will eventually have a sophisticated player that aggregates all the soccer content under one umbrella, and we are not going to like the pricing, as it'll cost more than cable does currently. That's what has happened in a lot of Europe.

[Bushmancan]

Giving these games to OneSoccer makes TSN look better with the CSA, seeing as OneSoccer is basically the CPL's version of SUM.

All about 2026.

It has nothing to do with OneSoccer, kudos to them. When was the team going to tell their fanbase, now you may then respond with they only figured it out last night to defend them. And I call BS on that because they would have know two weeks ago that it was a possibility. They had two town halls and they have been saying we are getting ready for Leon. It is simply a lack of respect.

[ag futbol]

Trying not to be cynical and nothing against OneSoccer (it should be supported) they negotiated part of this deal last January 2020 but introducing a new subscription service for the team a week before the game... unbelievable. TFC could fund the subscription for one month for SSH that's a $100-200k but grows their base, grows OneSoccer builds a caring brand.... IT IS TOO EASY.

This is a great point. With group discounts and a expanded awareness for One Soccer they probably could have negotiated this at a fraction of the price quoted.

But that would have taken an actual knowledge of the fan base, novel thinking, and empathy for their customers.

The attitude we get from these guys is like they are above providing any explanations.

[ensco]

It is simply a lack of respect.

More likely they are just disorganized, kind of in fail mode, overwhelmed. I can't even imagine the crazy they must be dealing with. The medical stuff, the weird arrangements in a weird state (Florida), this Mexico trip (across a border in the pandemic), the Mexican side of this (how do you stay safe there?), all the family stuff....

This season is probably a writeoff, all kinds of things are going to go wrong. It's not the FO's fault. TO sports teams are totally screwed by the pandemic.

[Bushmancan]

More likely they are just disorganized, kind of in fail mode, overwhelmed. I can't even imagine the crazy they must be dealing with. The medical stuff, the weird arrangements in a weird state (Florida), this Mexico trip (across a border in the pandemic), the Mexican side of this (how do you stay safe there?), all the family stuff....

This season is probably a writeoff, all kinds of things are going to go wrong. It's not the FO's fault. TO sports teams are totally screwed by the pandemic.


Again, I am a massive fan and I love the club. The FO gets paid significant dollars to do this and only this. They are part of MLSE and have those resources assisting the way as well. Think of the teams in this league that have none of that backing, but appear to be coping. I am not trying to humiliate them, I am just saying they are supposed to be professionals, just like the players on the field. They are supposed to be the top in the North American soccer world, and quite frankly from the outside looking in, they appear to not care much about their most loyal fanbase. It is the really small and not expensive things that make the difference.... customer first. Maybe they could read this forum and wake up.

Oh and btw, the FO just received extended contracts.

[OgtheDim]

TSN owns the rights - this isn't a TFC thing at all.

[kottisinick]

Hey everyone remember Tfc and goal tv? Lol

[nfitz]

I'm confused on how showing the games on more expensive TSN is "making the games available to the fans", but showing it on the cheaper OneSoccer service isn't. It's not like they give us TSN discounts (unlike CPL SSH who do get OneSoccer discounts.

Personally, with the schedule being so back-end heavy, I'm hoping that we do have at least half-the-season in the stands. But if not - it's not like we are losing much, other than interest on our tickets. Current rate for my bank account is 0.05%. That would be 50¢ a year on $1,000.

Besides - wasn't there an option to get a refund without losing SSH status?

[Red CB Toronto]

Hey everyone remember Tfc and goal tv? Lol

Yep most definitely. TFC Today was the daily show, Some of those GOL TV TFC Broadcasts ratings were dreadful, 10-15K even.

[OgtheDim]

Can't really tell what the lineup will be from the highlights of the CBus friendly except maybe Jozy starting. Did not see any defender baring Auro & I think Dunn in one shot.

[Red CB Toronto]

Can't really tell what the lineup will be from the highlights of the CBus friendly except maybe Jozy starting. Did not see any defender baring Auro & I think Dunn in one shot.

They must have been shooting the whole time from the end the Reds were attacking. Depending on the knocks that have been mentioned some have picked up, wonder if we make see Singh, Yaro etc play against Leon, at least be on the roster? They would not have to sign an MLS contract to do so as its not a league game.

[OgtheDim]

Hey...we got a game in 2 days :scarf:

[Graeme]

Can we guess the starting line up? I have no idea who is healthy.

Westberg
Auro Gonzalez Mavinga Morrow
Laryea Delgado Bradley Osorio
Pozuelo
Altidore

[Auzzy]

Can we guess the starting line up? I have no idea who is healthy.

Westberg
Auro Gonzalez Mavinga Morrow
Laryea Delgado Bradley Osorio
Pozuelo
Altidore

That looks reasonable. However I thought there was news of some mild injuries? I'm guessing we might see one or two young guys in the starting lineup. We've had limited pre-season games, and almost no info about the lineups during those games, nor how people played (aside from the goals). Plus a new coach with a new philosophy. I think the lineups for the next few games can only be guessed.

Do we know the number of subs allowed? Is it still 5 subs, during no more than 3 interruptions in play (plus half-time, and full-time if the game goes to overtime)?

I don't even know the overtime & away-goal rules for this edition of the CCL... :noidea:

[levyashin]

From all of the information that this website has gathered together (good detective work guys)I now know that there is a soccer team named Toronto FC based out of Florida.
Management in the past two years has totally ignored the knowledgeable fans with their crap attitude so the cynic in me is ready to say FU after being a day one supporter.
Sad

[MikeForbes]

It is game week and I am not as excited as I feel like I should be.

[Bushmancan]

From all of the information that this website has gathered together (good detective work guys)I now know that there is a soccer team named Toronto FC based out of Florida.
Management in the past two years has totally ignored the knowledgeable fans with their crap attitude so the cynic in me is ready to say FU after being a day one supporter.
Sad

Actually, the one thing i buy into is releasing very little on what we are doing (new formation, healthy players etc. etc. ) The less Leon knows the better, there is merit to that argument. We shall see.

I think we will see a couple of the young guys as well.

:scarf:
COYRs

[ag futbol]

Actually, the one thing i buy into is releasing very little on what we are doing (new formation, healthy players etc. etc. ) The less Leon knows the better, there is merit to that argument. We shall see.

I think we will see a couple of the young guys as well.

:scarf:
COYRs
I mean, you can market the team without releasing much in the way of useful information to the opposition.

[MikeForbes]

If Leon were unaware of what Marshall-Rutty looked like before, they know now as TFC have released more photos of him on Twitter in the past month than he has professional minutes played. Huge disadvantage for TFC, IMO.

[jabbronies]

If Leon were unaware of what Marshall-Rutty looked like before, they know now as TFC have released more photos of him on Twitter in the past month than he has professional minutes played. Huge disadvantage for TFC, IMO.

:smilielol5:Scouting reports based on photos alone.

[OgtheDim]

Just a reminder - LigaMx teams traditionally use some 3 digit on the back youth players in these round of 16 games too.

We really have no clue what we are going to face either.

[ag futbol]

Just a reminder - LigaMx teams traditionally use some 3 digit on the back youth players in these round of 16 games too.

We really have no clue what we are going to face either.
Guess we’ll have to see. Historically that was definitely the case but I think this tournament started to get a bit of heat after MLS teams knocked out a few Liga MX sides and there was a lot of hand wringing in the Mexican Press.

[daner90]

Super excited that we have a match this week. Really have no idea what to expect from our side but I cannot wait for Wednesday night!

[Bushmancan]

I mean, you can market the team without releasing much in the way of useful information to the opposition.


I was saying it under the context of releasing footage, not the way they are managing the fan base, apologies for the confusion.

[OgtheDim]

Hmmm....might want to keep the sound on

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1379203626372108290

[MikeForbes]

Hmmm....might want to keep the sound on

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1379203626372108290

Great get for OneSoccer. Hope he is doing color over studio work.

[reggie]

i like Wheeler.but not has a play by play guy,for me to take one soccer serious they need a play by play guy,

[Yohan]

I think Leon will play their first team.

Getting beaten by LAFC on first knockout round was not good for Leon especially up 2 goals after first leg last year.

[DavemTFC]

Hmmm....might want to keep the sound on

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1379203626372108290
Too bad it'll probably be alongside, not at the expense of, Wheeler

[ag futbol]

Too bad it'll probably be alongside, not at the expense of, Wheeler
Yeah, not to complete write the guy off, as I think he does some good things, but One Soccer is basically lowering themselves to the production level of community television by having Wheeler call the games.

He sounds like a mixture of dying cat and a 13-year old comic book nerd who has been given the chance to interview Captain America.

[OgtheDim]

My expectations for this game as far as a result are low. Our only real mitigating factors stopping us from getting wupped is our team probably has more CONCACAF experience then any other MLS team, what with the CanMNT & USMNT & CCL games
&
possibly being not taken so seriously.

I hope to see "so what the heck are we doing this year" a bit but even that I'm not sold we will see that much.

Still, its a game.....will take it.

[noimpactinmtl]

Yeah, not to complete write the guy off, as I think he does some good things, but One Soccer is basically lowering themselves to the production level of community television by having Wheeler call the games.

He sounds like a mixture of dying cat and a 13-year old comic book nerd who has been given the chance to interview Captain America.

With all respect to Wheeler, his strengths are hosting half-time shows and pre/post game shows. His experience at podcasting doesn't translate into play-by-play.

[OgtheDim]

Sooooo....sleuthing time....this video is very dark.

Is anybody missing? Not sure I saw Jozy

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1379486433216356357

[MikeForbes]

The only thing we can take for granted in that video is that the "young guns" are there. The social media has been laser focused on Nelson and JMR all pre-season and basically nothing else.

[MikeForbes]

Don't see Osorio, Pozuelo or Altidore. Delgado, Bradley, Laryea, Auro, Bono, Westberg, Gonzalez are the others I easily noticed watching the video on my phone.

[reggie]

frankly i dont even care anymore,these stupid mind games.its like belichick is running this team.

[FootBallAZ]

Yeah, not to complete write the guy off, as I think he does some good things, but One Soccer is basically lowering themselves to the production level of community television by having Wheeler call the games.

He sounds like a mixture of dying cat and a 13-year old comic book nerd who has been given the chance to interview Captain America.



LOLL

[Red CB Toronto]

I will be curious with it being Champions League if anyone not currently on the MLS roster is added Josh Yaro, Matt Di Rosa etc similar to what they did in 2019.

[portu]

Hmmm....might want to keep the sound on

https://twitter.com/KristianJack/status/1379203626372108290
I was going to find a “different way” to watch this game, but now I’ll be subscribing to watch.

[noxx98]

Altidore played in the recent friendly, so he should be fit to play (hopefully). It's been over a week since Poz was featured in any photos, I wonder if he's out. He's been an incredibly healthy player historically (last notable injury was in 2017).

[reggie]

Although the
@TorontoFC
has not given information about it, but everything indicates that due to injury, the MVP of the
@MLSes
of 2020, Alejandro Pozuelo, would be out for tomorrow before #LaFieraXFOX in #LigaDeCampeonesXFOX
well here we go...looks like MB will be our #10 tomorrow

[portu]

Although the
@TorontoFC
has not given information about it, but everything indicates that due to injury, the MVP of the
@MLSes
of 2020, Alejandro Pozuelo, would be out for tomorrow before #LaFieraXFOX in #LigaDeCampeonesXFOX
well here we go...looks like MB will be our #10 tomorrow
LOL I give up

[Richard]

Serious question, why didnt we just forfeit? This tournament is a logistical nightmare in the current climate. I don't think anyone would blame them, I really don't think this tournament should have been held this year either.

[MikeForbes]

First TFC gameday of 2021.

[barticusz]

Altidore is there. I had a bad feeling about Pozuelo and it’s not looking like he’s there. They would have shown him on the various social media images.

in any event, I am pumped for this game. Yes it’s likely we’ll lose as we haven’t had any real games up until now but who cares, it’s champions league time! I’m even going to subscribe to OneSoccer for the day.

[MikeForbes]

The midfield is gonna be interesting to see with no Pozuelo or Osorio. Bradley and Delgado are probably sure bets to start, who joins them? Priso? The legend of Liam Fraser?

[613reppingTFC]

I think they will give Shaff and maybe even Gallardo a start

[Bushmancan]

Altidore is there. I had a bad feeling about Pozuelo and it’s not looking like he’s there. They would have shown him on the various social media images.

in any event, I am pumped for this game. Yes it’s likely we’ll lose as we haven’t had any real games up until now but who cares, it’s champions league time! I’m even going to subscribe to OneSoccer for the day.

Not repping One Soccer on this ... but if you want to watch the return leg, you may as well get the full month. It is only $9.99. vs $5.99 for the day.

[ag futbol]

I think they will give Shaff and maybe even Gallardo a start
I’ll be interested to see if Gallardo can be more effective in this new system. He’s probably never going to reach the heights that were advertised when he signed but there’s no reason why he couldn’t carve out an Endoh-like niche for himself with the team.


Not repping One Soccer on this ... but if you want to watch the return leg, you may as well get the full month. It is only $9.99. vs $5.99 for the day.
I hate piling on additional subscription services but between the recent Canada games and now the CCL, I’ve got a decent amount of value out of One Soccer in the past month. Once the Gold Cup is over it’s a prime target to be cancelled but for now it’s okay.

[noxx98]

Just hypothesizing based on social media, but I wouldn't be surprised if Mavinga is also out. He hasn't been featured in any recent social media and many of the photos he posted on his own social media are later-grams.

[barticusz]

Not repping One Soccer on this ... but if you want to watch the return leg, you may as well get the full month. It is only $9.99. vs $5.99 for the day.

Agreed. In the remote chance TFC does get past Leon and assuming TSN doesn’t pick up the QF that’s another two games to fit within this month.

[FootBallAZ]

LOL I give up


are they still using the same strength and conditioning trainer - I only see the REDS pick up injury in practices - is Armas pushing the guys too hard?

[FootBallAZ]

im excited, soccer is soccer, hoping to catch it on stream.

Definitely dont expect much with pozeulo being out- lol all that hype with the card and his message and he is out.

the vibe is off for sure- a win or draw would go a long way here.


lets get it , dont stop

[Bushmancan]

I just hope One Soccer and Media Pro have the streaming capacity for today

[mowe]

First TFC gameday of 2021.
I know there has been a lot of negativity in this board over the offseason, but I’m so excited!

Finally get to watch TFC again. Plus it’s CCL which we haven’t been a part of for a while.

[Graeme]

After scouring twitter, I see that there are no confirmed injuries/absences, just vague "sources". Could be a raft of injuries or could just be an attempt to get Leon to field a weak team against us...I guess we'll find out in a few hours!


Edit: Now I see an article in the Sun with this quote: "Toronto FC coach Chris Armas admitted in a Zoom call on Tuesday that some of his players will not be available for Wednesday’s match." No news on which players, but knowing our luck, almost definitely Poz. However, I note it does not say "not available due to injury".

[PizzaEatingYeti]

These are the average bookie lines at this hour:

Club Leon - Toronto FC
1 = -204
X = +315
2 = +505

Not encouraging... at all.
Meaning that bookmakers are seeing TFC like a huge underdog.

[SoccMan2]

Cruz Azul who is in first place in the Mexican league right now tied a club team from Haiti, who Hamilton’s Forge FC should have beaten and it would have been Forge playing Cruz Azul last night , anyways Cruz Azul tied the Haitian club team 0-0 in the first leg of their Champions League two game series . Therefore, if a Haitian team can get a result against a the top team in Mexico I think there is hope for TFC in this game .

[MikeForbes]

We signed Luke Singh to a short term deal for tonight.

https://twitter.com/joshuakloke/status/1379828053661089792?s=20

[ensco]

I don’t know what to do here.

We are a vagrant team that had a Covid outbreak wreck training camp, we are missing Poz and Oso, we are playing a Liga MX team at altitude...

Am I really supposed to spend six bucks to watch us lose 6-0?

[RealG-TFC]

My hopeful prediction is we park the bus and get a goal via penalty from some Laryea concafing. 3-1 Leon.

[Red CB Toronto]

Yeah this match is only for the diehards if that. I ponied up the $9.99 for the month. But in reality how many in Toronto actually know this game is being played. As you said there is little value for the networks to show events like this. Heck if TSN has kept the game it would be up against the Leafs Habs tonight. Hopefully this is not a total blow out.


I don’t know what to do here.

We are a vagrant team that had a Covid outbreak wreck training camp, we are missing Poz and Oso, we are playing a Liga MX team at altitude...

Am I really supposed to spend six bucks to watch us lose 6-0?

[Yohan]

The CCL should be available on fox sports 1 for those that have the means to get it

[Luanda]

It is listed as available at:

https://www.usagoals.net/portal.html

[Ultra & Proud]

The CCL should be available on fox sports 1 for those that have the means to get it
It is. I watched all the ones yesterday on there.

[rydermike]

Bono front and centre in the new match preview posted on instagram. Guess he's the starter over Westberg

[MightyDM]

Yes, you are.

[FootBallAZ]

Bono front and centre in the new match preview posted on instagram. Guess he's the starter over Westberg



Lol im lost for words. 134 days and they hold out three starters lol, i guess they are hoping for a draw and then back in florida go full tilt.

is there any pre game interviews with the team or coach?NVM - see one for armas and bradley.

[Kiwi10]

New coach, system and a boatload of injuries leading into the first game of the season has the bar set pretty low. Curious to see how seriously the game is taken and if the club still has ambitions for CCL or treating it like an intense pre-season. What's our best 11 here given the injuries and desire to press? Do we see the forward destroyer Bradley that's been hinted? Do the kids get much runway?

Bono?
Auro - Gonzalez - Mavinga - Morrow
Delgado - Fraser
Laryea - Bradley - Gallardo
Jozy

Maybe Nelson on the left with Gallardo on the right and Auro/Laryea at LB/RB? I guess we don't know if Deleon is in the dog house after his covid commentary. Does Endoh's work rate get him more of a look with this system? Priso/Fraser and Perruzza/Mulinho could be interesting battles for minutes.

Really just hoping this isn't like the Independiente disaster and we actually get some building blocks for the rest of the year coming out of this one.

Good thing is Leon knows as little as we do at this point!

[MikeForbes]

Mullinho scores 4, TFC wins 4-3.

[rydermike]

Based on who got individual/duo shots is in the pre-game video

Bono
Laryea-Zavaleta-Omar-Auro
Gallardo-Bradley-Fraser-Okello
Jozy-Mullins

Subs based on being in the background: Singh, DeLeon, Delgado, Dorsey

https://twitter.com/i/status/1379856504480788487

[Captain]

Has there been any indication of who had Covid-19? We know that some players and staff were affected. Yes they had to quarantine but who actually had Covid? If any players did it could be a long time before they're fit enough to run 90 minutes or even 30 minutes at altitude.

[Red CB Toronto]

I am really thinking we will see at least some of the kids tonight. We all know what happened against Independiente, Griffin Dorsey played, Jacob played and even Duante Campbell was on the bench. I still don't understand when one of these short term deals in required and when it is not. Random TFC II players like Brian James, Malik Johnson, Kyle Bjourthen have popped up in the 18 for Canadian Championship and CCL games. For some you can not even find a transaction for them. This group of kids the Reds have now is night and day compared to what has been with the club in the past. Would be great to see Jordan get a run out, he does have the instinct.


New coach, system and a boatload of injuries leading into the first game of the season has the bar set pretty low. Curious to see how seriously the game is taken and if the club still has ambitions for CCL or treating it like an intense pre-season. What's our best 11 here given the injuries and desire to press? Do we see the forward destroyer Bradley that's been hinted? Do the kids get much runway?

Bono?
Auro - Gonzalez - Mavinga - Morrow
Delgado - Fraser
Laryea - Bradley - Gallardo
Jozy

Maybe Nelson on the left with Gallardo on the right and Auro/Laryea at LB/RB? I guess we don't know if Deleon is in the dog house after his covid commentary. Does Endoh's work rate get him more of a look with this system? Priso/Fraser and Perruzza/Mulinho could be interesting battles for minutes.

Really just hoping this isn't like the Independiente disaster and we actually get some building blocks for the rest of the year coming out of this one.

Good thing is Leon knows as little as we do at this point!

[Red CB Toronto]

Has there been any indication of who had Covid-19? We know that some players and staff were affected. Yes they had to quarantine but who actually had Covid? If any players did it could be a long time before they're fit enough to run 90 minutes or even 30 minutes at altitude.

None and unless the players, coach or staff talk about it we will never know, there is privacy here. What the Canucks are facing right now, really shows how serious it can get. As far as I know nothing has leaked about their situation so really do not expect it.

[Captain]

None and unless the players, coach or staff talk about it we will never know, there is privacy here. What the Canucks are facing right now, really shows how serious it can get. As far as I know nothing has leaked about their situation so really do not expect it.

I agree we'll never hear. Just thinking about all the players who are not expected to play tonight and yet we have not real explanation for why they are being held out.

[OgtheDim]

From what was stated last night, KJ is in the pre/halftime/post game slots for discussions - what he did with TSN.


Excited to see a game tonight. No expectations of a result - the tie could be done by the end of this game, to be honest.

[MikeForbes]

If we do get pummeled tonight, Twitter will be sooooo excited since it will likely be TFC II against Leon next week.

[OgtheDim]

A lot of TFC twitter still wonders why we don't resign Giovinco sooooo.........

I think this is 2 games of "play your kids" along with some vets to get a handle on the playing style and if happen to get to the last 30 minutes still in with a shout, fine.

[Red CB Toronto]

Outside of the diehards , how many people in the city even know the Reds are playing tonight and its not like they are randomly going to stumble upon it flipping the channels with it being on One Soccer. Has TFC even sent out an email say where the game is being shown tonight to STH etc?

[MikeForbes]

I feel like casual interest in TFC is gone. Look at the Twitter comments lately, it is basically just Leon fans bantering.

[daner90]

I feel like casual interest in TFC is gone. Look at the Twitter comments lately, it is basically just Leon fans bantering.

Unfortunately our social media team only seems interested in selling the new kit and not building hype for the upcoming season

[jloome]

LOLL

Wheeler is a print guy who has diversified for practical reasons. He started freelancing with the Sun chain when I was still there. He just loves soccer and wants to cover it, so I don't blame him. But he's not a natural broadcaster.

Print guys who survive in soccer do it by being realllly good at it, like Neil, Steve Goff, a handful of others. Most are also good at long-form feature writing, and soccer is often relegated to that sort of space rather than heading the breaking news slots, so it fits.

He's good for the game here. He's a lot better than he was when he started out, so he's working on his skillset. Most of the time these days in journalism that's about what you're going to get.

Good news about Kristian Jack, though. Hardworking, likeable dude apparently, with great sources. I don't think I've ever talked to him but my memory ain't what it was. I did a few of the radio shows when I was still column-n-nizing, so it's possible.

[jloome]

Unfortunately our social media team only seems interested in selling the new kit and not building hype for the upcoming season

I don't think Jeff Bradley was ever a breaking news guy. He was a feature writer at SI and other mags, that I recall. So he's probably never run a daily news cycle, doesn't understand the difference in assingning daily and generally covering a beat, as you might at a weekly or monthly. It's much, much more work to generate buzz than people realize. You need multiple staff working narrative (story) angles every day, new ones every day. You need to have drive to make the content talked about and relevant.

It's a crazy job when it's done right. I was the Sun's city editor in Edmonton before they laid off all the staff and went from "sensationalized" to "right-wing propaganda". When I took over the city desk, we had 18 daily reporters and three bureaus, and on an average day I would assign and juggle about a hundred different or new angles to have the reporters produce about 30 stories. Of those, about one-third were just "breaking" news, important daily events. But to get ahead, it was the two-thirds we had to think up daily that made the difference. We did very well before the cuts, circulation rising steadily, even beating the Journal some weekends, with half the staff and story space.

And that's basically how PR works in a nutshell: generate buzz, generate exposure, give them new 'value added' content.

So believe me, if they wanted to be a big game in town in terms of buzz, it is possible. But it takes someone with a rare insanity to pull it off, and there's a high burnout factor. You can run a top PR/story generating team for five years but much more than that and efficacy plummets somewhat.

[jloome]

None and unless the players, coach or staff talk about it we will never know, there is privacy here. What the Canucks are facing right now, really shows how serious it can get. As far as I know nothing has leaked about their situation so really do not expect it.

I have a bad feeling from the last couple of Armas/Bradley interviews. The one today on mlssoccer.com, Armas expresses himself so poorly you could easily interpret what he and Michael are saying as the team has not totally bought into what he's selling.

He has a nervous energy to him, and Vanney was basically Joe Kool. I'm a little worried that regardless of his ideas, he seems excitable without the 'commanding' part, like he's worried what people think of him. I dunno, I might be reading it wrong, but that usually doesn't bode well. I got the same sense from John Carver, who has never made it back to management. He as been an assistant coach -- apparently very good at on field technique but not striking the right locker room tone -- his entire career. Also a former player.

Some former players have that commanding edge, that "you may not like me, but you'll respect me and what I'm teaching you side." Even Vanney had it, albeit in a more subdued, polite sort of way.

[MikeForbes]

We are starting a lot of central midfielders. Bradley, Delgado, Okello and Priso.

[FootBallAZ]

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1379932698978947072?s=20

Bono
Laryea - Gonzalez - zavleta -auro Jr
Priso- delgado-bradley
Okello-shaffelburg
Altdiore

[OgtheDim]

Let the Year of the YUTES BEGIN

[OgtheDim]

So, missing are

Poz
Osorio
Westberg
Mavinga



Pretty much what the sleuths on this thread were saying..

OH, and Morrow

[MikeForbes]

How long of a run do we think Altidore has tonight? Over/under 60 minutes?

[portu]

I’m excited to see how all the guys perform tonight none more than Jozy. Having him in form may well be the difference between trophies or no trophies this season.

[OgtheDim]

How long of a run do we think Altidore has tonight? Over/under 60 minutes?


Hmmm...that reminds me, we get to see how Armas does subs - can't remember what he did with NYRB but EVERY supporter discussion group I know hates how their manager does the subs.

[rydermike]

Bono
Laryea-Gonzalwz-Zavs-Auro
Priso-Bradley-Delgado-Okello-Shffleberg
Altidore

Silva,Dorsey, Fraser, Gallardo,Mullins, Peruzza, Singh

[MightyDM]

From what was stated last night, KJ is in the pre/halftime/post game slots for discussions - what he did with TSN.


Excited to see a game tonight. No expectations of a result - the tie could be done by the end of this game, to be honest.

The tie could be done 15 minutes in. This is the lowest expectations pre game I have had for years - but it really doesnt matter.

[OgtheDim]

That defence is slow. Interested to see if Zavs can move the ball around.

[MikeForbes]

I notice there is no Nelson or JMR on the bench. They both made the trip based on the videos.

[FootBallAZ]

Priso I think will have a good game .
Zavleta starting is interesting, this will really show if management should have added another CB.
He did have some good games last season.

I was looking forward seeing pozuelo.

They said we want to play for trophies, here we go

[MightyDM]

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1379932698978947072?s=20

Bono
Laryea - Gonzalez - zavleta -auro Jr
Priso- delgado-bradley
Okello-shaffelburg
Altdiore

Did not see Okello -Shaff coming. holy cow. good news about Jozy

[MightyDM]

How long of a run do we think Altidore has tonight? Over/under 60 minutes?


87 and pulled for the applause

[Ultra & Proud]

How long of a run do we think Altidore has tonight? Over/under 60 minutes?

Total time out there; just over 60 minutes.

Useful time out there; 30-35 minutes then hands on hips and walking.

[noxx98]

Altidore is going to put up an MVP caliber season this year - I have a feeling.

[OgtheDim]

AAAAAUGGGHHHH...its going to be Dunfield & Wheeler on the call.

[leedsandTFC]

Altidore is going to put up an MVP caliber season this year - I have a feeling.


cursed it, nailed on to get season ending injury within 30 mins now

[MikeForbes]

No commentary for me tonight.

[alex andrew]

one second, one second please...

so i have to pay and share 'once again' data

in order to see the game ?

no biscuit ?

how am i supposed to 'test' onesoccer ?

[Kamp Berg]

I’d rather see Singh play than Zavaleta. Instead we get two pylons playing a high line?!
I really want to be wrong but this sounds like such a horrible idea.

[Red CB Toronto]

I want to see what the plan is for Griffin Dorsey heading into his third season with the team, how does Armas view him?

[ag futbol]

Armas wearing a suit in that heat. Brave.

I’d be dressed like Phil Scolari

[OgtheDim]

Reminder people




Settings





Audio





Aud2




All you get is the onsite sound

[OgtheDim]

Wow...free header in the first 25 seconds

[mowe]

Should’ve scored there!

[MikeForbes]

Delgado looks like he is being used as a RM.

[Rust]

I don't have a good feeling about this game because of our lineup. :(

I'll be more than satisfied with a draw in this first leg.

[benito]

Dark socks with the red kit? That’s a new look for tfc.

[noxx98]

Bradley playing energized so far, good to see after how he tailed off at the end of last season.

[MikeForbes]

Bradley and Delgado playing really well to start.

[MightyDM]

seen them given.

[ag futbol]

Layrea busting out the secret move!

[Ultra & Proud]

Onesoccer might have Wheeler but I'm pretty sure this is Lalas on FS-1.

Ugh.

[portu]

Okello has got some fucking class

[OgtheDim]

Okello looks....smooth

[MightyDM]

Okello is a revelation so far

[Auzzy]

Mullinho scores 4, TFC wins 4-3.


I’d rather see Singh play than Zavaleta. Instead we get two pylons playing a high line?!
I really want to be wrong but this sounds like such a horrible idea.

As upgrading the team in the offseason didn't go too well, I think we have to work much harder on upgrading the names.

I mean, I think Thiago Silvaleta is going to really solidify our backline tonight.

[MikeForbes]

Okello just devours ground with those long legs.

[Bushmancan]

Does anyone know where the RPB Shields are from Joe’s.... I used touched them before every CCL game. Not jinxing anything because we didn’t win. LOL

[MikeForbes]

The only guy I haven't really noticed so far is Priso.

[portu]

I could see Okello starting, guy is just smart

[OgtheDim]

Auro is going to get stretched out that side - likely place where their goal(s) will come from.

[portu]

The only guy I haven't really noticed so far is Priso.
Me too, and I've got a high bar for him after the I don't expect to be here long comments

[MikeForbes]

Very, very impressed so far.

[noxx98]

TFC looking like the far better team here. Need to be careful with some of these close offside calls, but they showed up.

[OgtheDim]

Ok, its 20 minutes in and we are likely to fall completely apart in the next 70 due to fitness but.....the kids are doing alright & the modified press shows promise.

[Auzzy]

Oh well, nice start.

[MikeForbes]

Jesus. What a strike.

[ag futbol]

Well that was outrageous. Nobody is stopping that.

[RealG-TFC]

I ain't even mad

[Bushmancan]

Can’t stop that...

[rydermike]

Knew we needed to capitalize on those chances. Gorgeous strike

[OgtheDim]

Only thing on that goal is MAYBE Okello comes back quicker to cover but that is a golazo.

[MikeForbes]

Michael "I'm a centerback too" Bradley.

[jloome]

Well that was outrageous. Nobody is stopping that.

Great strike. I'd like to see the angle and whether Bono had adjusted his feet yet for the cross. It looked in the slow mo like he needed an extra step to get across before diving, and he got a piece of it.

But great strike. Goalie would have to be perfect to get that.

[FootBallAZ]

Wow lol dang

[portu]

Great strike. I'd like to see the angle and whether Bono had adjusted his feet yet for the cross. It looked in the slow mo like he needed an extra step to get across before diving, and he got a piece of it.

But great strike. Goalie would have to be perfect to get that.
I still think Bono can start on this team. It’s going to be nice to see some guys get a second chance this year.

[Bushmancan]

They are doing some great runs without the ball... and crosses into the box. Who is this team?

[jloome]

I still think Bono can start on this team. It’s going to be nice to see some guys get a second chance this year.

He needs his confidence back. I'm a little wary because his rookie year, he had such a good defence ahead of him he didn't see much action most games. When he did, he had some great saves, but also quite a few boneheaded decisions.

When the good defensive leader left, we suffered a lot back there. That was Moor's rep his whole career (and still in Colorado), marshalling the back line. With increased chances there were increased mistakes.

Even when we gave him a chance in Westberg's first year he looked shaky. But then Westberg had a few moments last season, too.

I guess at some point you either accept you don't have a league top 3 goalie, a Zack Steffen or Andre Blake ( or, lord help us, a Stefan Frei. Dumbest move ever.) . If that's the case, until we get a chance to get someone like that, he maybe has the higher potential and value.

But I don't think there' s a doubt that over the prior two seasons Westberg looked much more confident and consistent.

[Auzzy]

OK Priso, hotdogging in the middle of the field for no good reason, and then only jogging back slowly after coughing up the ball...

[OgtheDim]

Auro....where quick ball movement dies.

[MightyDM]

Great strike. I'd like to see the angle and whether Bono had adjusted his feet yet for the cross. It looked in the slow mo like he needed an extra step to get across before diving, and he got a piece of it.

But great strike. Goalie would have to be perfect to get that.

Brilliant strike but in the replay it looked like Bono got a hand to it. So not entirely impossible to save.

[MikeForbes]

Yeah, at half I would move Delgado back to the middle and bring Priso off for Gallardo.

[mowe]

Not sure Laryea needed to press there. Left the right side wide open.

[jloome]

Priso's workrate has been kinda shit so far.

Edit: although on the replay that was deliberate, hitting the player's sliding arm. That was clever and sneaky.

[portu]

Priso's workrate has been kinda shit so far.
For a DM he’s putting way too much time into the wrong side of the ball

[MightyDM]

Bradley looks really good and fully recovered from his injuries

[MightyDM]

And this is a CONCACAAF referee ...

[Bushmancan]

Great play by Omar, dangerous but great play.

[jloome]

For a DM he’s putting way too much time into the wrong side of the ball

Yeah, they're trying to use Bradley and him as co-trailers, one on each side at the bottom of a triangle to turn the ball inside. But he's not seeing the ball at all, and has been late when there have been chances there, with Okello and Shaffelburg 10 yards faster than him. So they seem to be trying to use him two-way as well, but it's not working so far.

[OgtheDim]

...

Edit: although on the replay that was deliberate, hitting the player's sliding arm. That was clever and sneaky.

We've been fairly good at doing the CONCACAF dark arts in this game so far - especially Omar.

[MikeForbes]

Only 45 minutes so I won't be too harsh on him, but Priso wouldn't be the first 18 year old to believe the hype around him and stop working hard. Hopefully he is just learning the system and a touch behind so far.

[FootBallAZ]

Not looking good .

Didn't fee like 70/30 possession for Leon

[Bushmancan]

They are playing smarter now, east to west. 1st Game at altitude, tire us out, but I am very happy with the 1st half result.

[MightyDM]

Vastly better than I expected and even than I dared to hope. Lots of bright lights.

[jloome]

Could still get something out of this.

Okay, bets in. Pozuelo is absent because
a) Covid risk.
b) Kidnapping risk
c) demoralizing loss due to 60th minute altitude burnout risk....
d) minor injury.

[ag futbol]

Hey I’ll take it. Honestly to play a team in mid season with 3 youth players and without your star... can’t complain.

I’d go to the subs bench early. These guys will gas and we might as well rotate a bit

[Auzzy]

Hey I’ll take it. Honestly to play a team in mid season with 3 youth players and without your star... can’t complain.

I’d go to the subs bench early. These guys will gas and we might as well rotate a bit

Agreed! TFC could easily have scored 2 or 3 goals on some very decent chances. That would really have changed things, especially since Leon doesn't seem super comfortable when pressed hard.

[rydermike]

Really impressed with Okello so far. Shaff looking more like his 2019 self that showed potential.

[ag futbol]

For a DM he’s putting way too much time into the wrong side of the ball
It feels like Priso is Bradley today... without the need to scoop every ball off the back line.

[ensco]

This game has way exceeded my expectations.

Jozy should have buried that Shaff cross in the first 25 seconds though.

[DavemTFC]

This game has exceeded my very very low expectations

[portu]

This game has way exceeded my expectations.

Jozy should have buried that Shaff cross in the first 25 seconds though.
I feel like that was a really difficult chance. If he’d scored that it would have been like holy shit what a header. Same kinda principle as if Bono saved the goal.

[PaceyWinger]

I will echo everyone else in saying I am very pleasantly surprised so far. TFC right now is not 1 brilliant strike away from being a good Mexican team. Try not to let it get out of hand and if possible sneak an away goal. Maybe you get Pozuelo, Osorio, Mavinga, (and dare we dream Akinola) back and we can shock these guys with some rotation with quality.

Imagine if Jozy's header had some power 25 seconds into the game? Or if Okello could have gotten his leg up for a volley? Panic stations if so for Leon. Keep up the work rate and be smart.

[Auzzy]

Wow Shaff with a tiny bit better ball control there could have had a goal as well.

[rydermike]

Why was Okello subbed. I thought he was playing really well

[OgtheDim]

Concacaf baby

[Auzzy]

Woohoo stop the counting start the car!!!!!!

[rydermike]

I'll take that. Great press

[portu]

Gallardo is hereby immune from criticism for the next week.

[MightyDM]

This game has way exceeded my expectations.

Jozy should have buried that Shaff cross in the first 25 seconds though.

We just made up for that...

[rydermike]

Gallardo thriving under Armas

[tfcfans]

WOOHOO:scarf:

[daner90]

Omg yesssss!!!

[ag futbol]

Finally that kid got a damn break. I’m happy for him

[FootBallAZ]

Lol Gallardo deserved that

[Bushmancan]

Gallardo is hereby immune from criticism for the next week.

Shaf. Has been pretty damn good as well

[daner90]

Gallardo magic

[FootBallAZ]

Anyone can get a gif of Altidore hands going to his head then straight up as it went in lol

[MightyDM]

Gallardo thriving under Armas

Hahahahhaha

[portu]

Shaff excellent high and wide.

Jozy looks good as well. Intelligent and aggressive running. I love it.

[PaceyWinger]

HAHHAHAAAAAAAAHA! like, i don't expect tfc to win the game but oh my god was that goal perfect for this competition. what an away goal lol.

[jloome]

Altitude, schmaltitude.

[Yohan]

Hrm. Laryea needs to be subbed before he gets red carded

[Auzzy]

Why was Okello subbed. I thought he was playing really well

Seriously, unless Okello was tired or something. Gallardo was a good sub, but why not for Priso instead of Okello after that first half?

[portu]

I'd like Fraser on for Priso. Priso doesn't look like he belongs at this level today.

[Auzzy]

How the hell was that not a yellow (for the foul on Delgado)?

[ag futbol]

I'd like Fraser on for Priso. Priso doesn't look like he belongs at this level today.
Little too overconfident. He’s looking off the easy pass and trying to thread the needle too often

[MikeForbes]

I notice that Armas has put Delgado high up the field to do the pressing for Jozy.

[Auzzy]

Come on Laryea, you had two simply passes available with TFC in a high position, you try something fancy instead and almost give up a goal.

[PaceyWinger]

I'd like Fraser on for Priso. Priso doesn't look like he belongs at this level today.

I don't think it's been his best day but Priso has led Canada at U17 World Cup and other big events. He's young but has decent experience.

Subs will be real important between 70 and 80 so we can't get too crazy.

[Auzzy]

Beautiful play for TFC up front, but come on, one guy to the front post and one to the back post, that could have been an easy goal but nobody in front of the net.

[OgtheDim]

Looks like Gallardo got himself injured

[MikeForbes]

Zavaleta putting in a shift. I maintain he was better than Ciman last year.

[jloome]

Ever since we scored, it's like the wind has picked up or something. Suddenly the Leon players are having trouble standing.

[MikeForbes]

Game over for Leon. Here he comes...

[Auzzy]

Game over for Leon. Here he comes...

Still plenty of time for his hat trick.

[Yohan]

Priso out, Mullinho in. We got this!

[FootBallAZ]

Wow Jozy coming all the way back with 23m left

[OgtheDim]

Jozy just pulled up & said "need a sub"

[MikeForbes]

Jozy... Why did Armas leave him on so long?

[Bushmancan]

Bring on Peruzza, scratch that Dorsey.

15 minutes boys....

[FootBallAZ]

Jozy ham string injury lol

[Auzzy]

Wow Jozy coming all the way back with 23m left

Don't worry, he'll be back in time for the MLS playoffs.

[Yohan]

aaaand Jozy's done

[rocktml]

Time to move on from Altidore

[portu]

Jesus Christ... and this why Jozy can’t be a DP.

[MikeForbes]

Jozy and Gallardo done. This is not optimal.

[MikeForbes]

Liam Fraser with an awful haircut.