MLS Match Day 4 - Columbus SC "@" TFC Wed May 12 7pm - You''l Laugh, You'll Cry

[OgtheDim]

You'll kiss 2 hours goodbye

(The kickoff time is the one on the MLS webpage)

*********


Have at It People

[rydermike]

So given how rushed Columbus had to put this out because it got leaked, what are the odds we're still facing the Crew Wednesday because they won't have SC jerseys made yet?

[Joe Kool]

Another kick at the can for Armas and TFC....not sure what to think at this point....but I will watch as usual.

[Ben - D.O.W.]

Another kick at the can for Armas and TFC....not sure what to think at this point....but I will watch as usual.

I know what I think at this point - Bono will start, Omar will look like a pylon, at least one player will start out of position, we'll have no offensive bite, things will get bad (I'm guessing 3 or 4-0 Columbus), people will continue to turn on Armas whose "system" will continue to look like a dumpster fire, we'll look bad at set pieces (for and against). Oh and it will still look like half the team doesn't want to be here.

I'd love to be proven wrong.

[A Stick]

I know what I think at this point - Bono will start, Omar will look like a pylon, at least one player will start out of position, we'll have no offensive bite, things will get bad (I'm guessing 3 or 4-0 Columbus), people will continue to turn on Armas whose "system" will continue to look like a dumpster fire, we'll look bad at set pieces (for and against). Oh and it will still look like half the team doesn't want to be here.

I'd love to be proven wrong.

I am afraid you are totally right Ben. This team has shit show written all over it and we have seen a few TFC shit shows.

[Ultra & Proud]

I know what I think at this point - Bono will start, Omar will look like a pylon, at least one player will start out of position, we'll have no offensive bite, things will get bad (I'm guessing 3 or 4-0 Columbus), people will continue to turn on Armas whose "system" will continue to look like a dumpster fire, we'll look bad at set pieces (for and against). Oh and it will still look like half the team doesn't want to be here.

I'd love to be proven wrong.

If Westberg starts I say there is a huge difference in the defensive organization both during play and on set peices. We will 100% look much, much better.

If it's Bono then guys will be running all over and without somebody damaging their vocals chords yelling at Omar for 90+ minutes then he will wander out into pylon land and it will be a bad day and we'll make Zardes look like Zlatan.

[OgtheDim]

If Westberg starts I say there is a huge difference in the defensive organization both during play and on set peices. We will 100% look much, much better.



You see, this is what I don't think the media have been discussing about Bono/Westberg. Westberg is just a better marshal of a backline & Omar isn't the answer. The key for me understanding that last bit was how often Vanney yelled "Omar UP!" last year. Gonzalez needs a marshal, and Westberg can do that. Bono doesn't. But, you know, "What did Bono do wrong?"

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/MichaelSingh94/status/1392170153870245889


If we play DeLeon as AM again....at least put Priso in there & see what he can do.

***

Addtional info on Poz

https://twitter.com/MLeach680News/status/1392174274459414533

[rydermike]

At least Solteldo is here so I can finally see someone other than Michael Bradley taking a set pieces.

[rydermike]

Ideal Lineup (staying similar to Armas' form)
----------Westberg----------
Laryea---Omar--Mavinga---Lawrence
-----Delgado--Bradley--Priso-----
-------Osorio---------Soteldo-------
-------------Altidore-----------

What we will see
-----------Bono-----------------
Laryea----Omar---Mavinga--Auro
-------Bradley--Priso-----------
------------DeLeon------------
Delagdo----Altidore-------Shaffelberg

[MightyDM]

deleon looks like he is running in sand so far this season; not sure why. I still rate him but not as a 10. And please no marky on the wing. If he plays its where he is good. Assuming no Lawrence, something like this is our best at the moment: morrow - mavinga - omar - auro; shaff - delgado - bradley - ritchie; soteldo - ayo/jozy

[portu]

Bono starts again. Gets exposed again.

Omar, Zavs or both start. Pylon city on the backline.

Jozy pulls up lame by minute 80 or doesn't make it past 60 minutes.

Overall, we fumble about and get made to look like fools by the GM that skipped out before we had to rebuild. It'll be a 2 or 3 nil match that could have been 5.

[Ultra & Proud]

Okay so I will say this;

- if Armas starts Bono, Omar, & Zavaleta
- starts DeLeon as a #10
- uses Delgado on the wing

Then I am #Armasout even if we somehow fluke a win because then it's clear there's no hope.

[Joe Kool]

After seeing the first Leon game I think a lot of us had some decent hope that this new Armas system could be something even with the players we had. Wow what a difference a few weeks can make. I bet Leon feels even crappier now that they lost to TFC. Haha. Man I hope they sort this crap out. You never quite get rid of the PTSD from early years of TFC.

[OgtheDim]

Hey Its a game day :scarf:

And

I know

we've been crap

Its been hard to watch at times

Its annoying

Its just not always enjoyable


&



&





Its still my team, my passion, my fun, & something, even when we are crap, I look forward to. (those of us who remember 2007-2014 know)



So, I'll put on the game tonight, try to ignore Caldwell, get somewhat annoyed by things & type in here about something going on while hoping...hoping....to see something.


Because...its what we do.



:scarf::drum::drinking::taz::pbjtime::party::bangh ead:g:D


TFC till I die

[ensco]

This game seems hopeless.

But it's MLS, so this must mean victory is assured.

[flambe]

Hey Its a game day :scarf:

...

Its still my team, my passion, my fun, & something, even when we are crap, I look forward to. (those of us who remember 2007-2014 know)



So, I'll put on the game tonight, try to ignore Caldwell, get somewhat annoyed by things & type in here about something going on while hoping...hoping....to see something.


Because...its what we do.



:scarf::drum::drinking::taz::pbjtime::party::bangh ead:g:D


TFC till I die


Sums up my feelings pretty well!

[Canary10]

This game seems hopeless.

But it's MLS, so this must mean victory is assured.

Ha ha so true. I'm looking forward to this game even if recent performance suggests it won't be pretty. At least we'll get a better look at Soteldo. And who knows. Maybe the whole Crew branding controversy will weigh on them to such a degree they come out flat.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

3-1 for the good guys today!

:drinking:

.
.
.
.
.

Yefe will bag 2:

- A free kick from 20 m, 15 degrees left from the center of the goal; and

- An action goal:
After dribbling 3 adverse players while advancing in zig-zag 12 m, with a poverful shot 30 degrees left and 7 m from from the center of the goal line.

:scarf:

.
.
.
.
.

PS: One can at least dream, right?

[Graeme]

I'd just like to see a few build-ups or moments worthy of highlight. It seems like a tall task at this point. I'd love to see Jozy & Yefe link up, but who knows if they will both play together. Fingers crossed!

[ManUtd4ever]

Need a win tonight to boost morale.

[Auzzy]

Need a win tonight to boost morale.

The beatings will continue until morale improves. ;)

[19Barrett19]

Westberg
Auro-omar-mavinga-Lawrence
delgado-Bradley
Lareya-Soltedo-Shaf
Akinola

I don't see it any other way tonight
Ist sub should be priso in for shaf and shift yef to LM

[ensco]

I think Priso has been better than Shaff, and I would just get DeLeon back to the wing. I also think Okello should get one more shot as AM. He's good on the ball.

[leedsandTFC]

our 8th game at our 8th different stadium to start the season.

got to be some sort of record, yeah?

[613reppingTFC]

In 2015 when the stadium was under construction they had 7 away games before playing 8th game at home and 9th game away..so that might count as 9 games in 9 stadiums?

[Ultra & Proud]

our 8th game at our 8th different stadium to start the season.

got to be some sort of record, yeah?
That year we had all the construction and did that crazy road trip to start the year must have been close.

[MightyDM]

I think Priso has been better than Shaff, and I would just get DeLeon back to the wing. I also think Okello should get one more shot as AM. He's good on the ball.
Priso has earned starts but not if it causes Marky to be on the wing. Agree re okello

[Thomas]

Id like us to at least put in a good effort. If not, I want to be entertained by Yefe.

[MikeForbes]

Yefe starts. Delgado likely back to the right and DeLeon playing the 10. Kill me now. Atleast let the natural central player play in the middle and the natural winger play out wide. Oh, and Lawrence starts on the bench because all managers are cowards.

[gracos]

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1392602757429858308/photo/1

Starting 11: Bono, Auro Jr., Mavinga, Gonzalez, Laryea, Bradley, Priso, Soteldo, DeLeon, Delgado, Akinola
Bench: Westberg, Altidore, Endoh, Mullins, Nelson, Okello, Lawrence, Shaffelburg, Zavaleta
https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1392602757429858308/photo/1

[MikeForbes]

Oh, and Bono starts! Ugh.

[rocktml]

Fuck! Not bono again!

[OgtheDim]

Looks like I didn't expect low enough.

[gracos]

my thought is where is Dwyer, didnt even make the bench but has been training with the team for a good portion of time, this confuses me for a signing

[MightyDM]

five attackers on the bench. Six if you count Okello. Interesting

[MikeForbes]

Dear Greg Vanney, I miss you so.

[Slick]

Dear Greg Vanney, I miss you so.

I'm with you man.... Was disappointed when he chose not to renew....I hope all the vanneyout people realize how good we had it.

[portu]

Dear Greg Vanney, I miss you so.
Honestly. Yes. Everyone who argued that his replacement was going to be terrible was so right.

[mowe]

Excited for the second half when we sub on Altidore and Lawrence. That’ll be a strong lineup.

[FootBallAZ]

Lol Bono Bono

No excuse why westberg hasn't seen any meaningful games and that Bono hasn't shown any growth.


Marky in a forward position seems like he will hold up the play to set up soteldo


This is getting comical, would be worse if I had paid for seasons .

[portu]

Paging John Molinaro to press Armas on the Westberg v Bono bullshit

[OgtheDim]

Paging John Molinaro to press Armas on the Westberg v Bono bullshit


Singh did that on Saturday - "What's it going to take for Quenten Westberg to get into a game". Armas said Bono got in because Westberg wasn't fit yet for the Leon games & then something along the lines of he hasn't lost it yet.

[rydermike]

my thought is where is Dwyer, didnt even make the bench but has been training with the team for a good portion of time, this confuses me for a signing
His International Transfer Certificate has to be sent to Canada from the US. Since his signing was only official yesterday, takes a day or more and it can only be sent after the signing is confirmed. One of the annoying parts of transfers. If he had played for the whitecaps or impact last year, he would've been eligible for us because his ITC would've been in Canada already. It's like last year at the MLS is back when the whitecaps had no keeper the only keeper they were allowed to use on such short notice would've been one of Montreal's or one of ours (or Caleb Patterson Sewell since his last club was tfc). They ultimately got Montreal's third stringer on a one day loan

[khso11]

At this point, I wonder how long before Westburg gets mysteriously "injured".

[rydermike]

At this point, I wonder how long before Westburg gets mysteriously "injured".
Out indefinitely with a butt injury due to too much sitting on the bench caused by Armas

[MikeForbes]

Sign Manuel Neuer as a DP. He can play both GK and CB for us.

[OgtheDim]

Sign Manuel Neuer as a DP. He can play both GK and CB for us.


Sadly...Westberg was a sweeper keeper & would actually fit BETTER with our defence because of that but......you know, keepers should only be judged on how they deal with shots, it seems.

[daner90]

Delgado and Deleon up front and out of position again.... did Armas just miss the game all together on Saturday or is he just ignoring the garbage performance from both of them.

[portu]

Sadly...Westberg was a sweeper keeper & would actually fit BETTER with our defence because of that but......you know, keepers should only be judged on how they deal with shots, it seems.
Bono isn’t even doing that so well lately

[MightyDM]

Real test for Armas here, with Marky and Deleon out of position where both struggled. What does he see that we do not?

[OgtheDim]

Now it says 7:08 start....

[portu]

Real test for Armas here, with Marky and Deleon out of position where both struggled. What does he see that we do not?
What doesn’t make sense is not putting guys in their preferred position. DeLeon on the wing and Marky next to Priso. Play Bradley at the 10. I can already sense the shitshow this match is going to be.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

Damn, have you guys seen that with Yefe?
The ball juggling in warmup.
Crazy gifted....

[tfcfans]

He’s been solid....😂😂😂

[portu]

Armas calling Bono “top tier”... I want what he’s smoking

[OgtheDim]

That quote from Armas is bollocks but it tells us that Bono is there because Armas is who he is

[rydermike]

First non Bradley set piece. Hallelujah

[rydermike]

Bono has been one of our top tier players IF you divide our players into three tiers and consider top tier to be the top two of three tiers and the third tier is all of the players who have played less than 20 minutes (Achara, Pozuelo, Dunn, Dwyer, Silva, Lawrence, Fraser, Dorsey, Westberg, Romeo)

[Thomas]

Can’t wait to see Yefe Poz hook up.

[ag futbol]

Already better than last game

[portu]

Complete clusterfuck starting from some actually decent service into the box. Hold the lead now.

[MikeForbes]

Didn't expect that! Nice!

[rydermike]

All caused by the fact that Soteldo actually managed to hit a tfc player on the corner

[tfcfans]

Wow. Captain !

[tfcfans]

Bono makes a good save !

[tfcfans]

Is today backwards Wednesday? I missed the memo...😂😂

[MightyDM]

DeLeon and Marky aren’t exactly playing 10 -11. It’s almost like a 4-2-4 or a 4-2-1-3 with Marky and DeLeon rotating in the 1

[portu]

Priso has been very tidy today

[daner90]

Love a Michael Bradley goal! Look at what a difference it makes when you have someone who can take a proper corner as well

[portu]

Flag up on Ayo but what in the hell was that finish

[gracos]

I am impressed with Soteldo; when Pozuelo gets healthy its going to be difficult to keep up with for other teams

[Bushmancan]

How can you miss the net that badly. looking forward to Achara’s return.

[MightyDM]

Actually a bit of a 4-3-3 at that moment. With the middle 3 being Bradley Priso Soteldo

[OgtheDim]

Seteldo is good & if it all goes through him, we be OK


We seem to have gone back to no press no hurry.

[MightyDM]

Seteldo is good & if it all goes through him, we be OK


We seem to have gone back to no press no hurry.

Interesting if this is on purpose. Press to get an advantage. Then control.

[benito]

Wow. What a block!

[MightyDM]

How did he miss!

[MightyDM]

Are there supporters there or was the Dichio song taped as part of crowd noise? If so fair play to MLSE

[flatpicker]

Are there supporters there or was the Dichio song taped as part of crowd noise? If so fair play to MLSE

Recording. I'm glad they play it on the broadcast, but hearing it reminds me how out of key we are, lol.

[OgtheDim]

Are there supporters there or was the Dichio song taped as part of crowd noise? If so fair play to MLSE


MLSE started that last year in Hartford - every home game, chants taped at certain points

There's a clap around 70 minutes.

[MightyDM]

Recording. I'm glad they play it on the broadcast, but hearing it reminds me how out of key we are, lol.

We weren’t selected for our choral abilities...

[Bushmancan]

A fair amount of switching in general going on.

[MightyDM]

DeLeon looks much more in the game today. His movement is much more fluid

[MightyDM]

A fair amount of switching in general going on.

Yes. Except mostly for MB

[rocktml]

I’m not sold on ayo......something about him

[MightyDM]

Now it looks like a 4-4-2 with Marky on the bight and DeLeon on the left

[Thomas]

Me too…but hope he changes my mind

[OgtheDim]

A fair amount of switching in general going on.


Yeah...seems to be some thought going on in this.

[Thomas]

Looks like Bono has been studying Westberg tapes..more distribution from the back. I’ve been hard on Bono, but he has had a pretty decent game thus far.

[ag futbol]

That looked a lot more settled. We did away with our hair-brained pass it in half a second mentality from last game.

[OgtheDim]

So far...not bad. Not many chances created but then CBus really only had 1 so.

[MikeForbes]

Good half. Columbus not pressing is to our benefit. Priso and Delgado both look much more comfortable without two guys sitting on them upon getting the ball. Soteldo had his moments too. Akinola needs to start picking it up though.

[ensco]

My main thought is, did Columbus have their kit wrecked in the laundry?

[OgtheDim]

Good half. Columbus not pressing is to our benefit. Priso and Delgado both look much more comfortable without two guys sitting on them upon getting the ball. ....

Yup, they are basically doing what Leon did.

Thing is, Porter knows how to adjust his team - they will make changes.

[jloome]

My main thought is, did Columbus have their kit wrecked in the laundry?

Truly hideous.

[Bushmancan]

So does Jozy get in tonight?

[Slick]

So does Jozy get in tonight?
Yes, 60 min mark

[ag futbol]

Man Priso’s ability to find an extra second or two in order to find an outlet after winning the ball is something else.

Most guys are sweating bullets getting the ball in those sorts of positions

[MightyDM]

Priso very calm there. Impressive. Also looks like a 4-4-2 with DeLeon and Ayo up front. Or did. Already looks a bit different.

[OgtheDim]

Can't get a hold of the ball right now though...

[jloome]

Holy wicked corner.

[jloome]

WTF?

[portu]

Soteldo has made us an instant threat off a set pieces. Even Seba couldn’t whip in a corner that fine.

[ag futbol]

Why, why, why would you come out and do that?

[portu]

Aaaaand Bono does something characteristically stupid

[jloome]

Holy shit, that was a dumb decision.

[tfcfans]

WTF is Bono doing?

[ensco]

Bono VERY fortunate not to see red there

[Slick]

Can we just sub Westburg in. FFS

[rydermike]

Bono read that Waking the Red article that talked about Westbergs ability to end plays that prevent him ever having to make a save and tried to do it but terribly.

[MightyDM]

What on earth Bono??? Then an incredible ball by Priso with the outside of his boot up the line

[Yohan]

TFC so far doing a good job on limiting Zelarayan. good things happen when you limit opposition playmaker

[Bushmancan]

Crew are picking up the pace. Time to make some changes.

[rydermike]

Two strikers coming in, If Armas takes out Soteldo I'm going to lose it

[MightyDM]

Suspect it will be DeLeon and Ayo

[MikeForbes]

Ohhhhh Patrick Mullin-ho!

[ag futbol]

I’m not going to be upset if he takes out Solteldo. He’s still integrating and tough to know what his fitness is.

[rydermike]

I’m not going to be upset if he takes out Solteldo. He’s still integrating and tough to know what his fitness is.
Soteldo was mid season in Santos, his conditioning should be absolutely fine.

[MikeForbes]

A flat 4-4-2 now?

[OgtheDim]

Moulinho......

oh and that Jozy guy

[portu]

Every now and then Bradley shows glimpses of his 2014 form and tonight is one of those nights

[tfcfans]

Why take out Soteldo?

[portu]

Taking off Soteldo seems like we’re asking to draw this match

[rydermike]

Armas better not be doing Vanney five at the back that regularly failed

[MightyDM]

Why take out Soteldo?
It’s like it’s pre season

[MikeForbes]

Why take out Soteldo?

Cowards can't have two newcomers on there at once.

[MightyDM]

Where is Morrow tonight? Just realized that he is not on the bench.

[gracos]

with the signing of K Lawrence, where do we play Morrow, do we play with 2 lbs

[rydermike]

with the signing of K Lawrence, where do we play Morrow, do we play with 2 lbs

Going to have a back 6 at the end of games with Bradley playing behind them at times
------------------Bradley------------------
Laryea-Auro-Omar-Mavinga-Morrow-Lawrence

[Thomas]

Does Caldwell read this blog? Has not been as annoying tonight thus far.

[OgtheDim]

Can't get a hold of the ball right now though...


Same...

[MikeForbes]

Priso looks to be tiring. Great game by him though so far. Get him off on a good note.

[portu]

Okay Jozy I see you

[rydermike]

Jozy with a DP shot

[noxx98]

Jozy can still play. Just hope he can play for 90 mins at some point.

[ensco]

See that, Jozy haters?

[MikeForbes]

He might of broke the crossbar with that shot.

[ensco]

How pissed does Q look there?

[MikeForbes]

Poor Q. He looks like he hates his life there.

[Yohan]

I've seen this movie before. So many chances, hitting bars, can't get that another goal and TFC gets scored on late for a draw

[MightyDM]

They seem to move between a 4-3-3 and a 4-4-2 depending where on the field Columbus has the ball

[MikeForbes]

Don't agree with Endoh here. Should be Shaff coming on with Lawrence dropping back to LB, Auro to RB and Richie pushed up to RM.

[OgtheDim]

Ok, we lose this one & I'm not going to be upset because we at least look like we have a clue how to play this sort of team.

[ag futbol]

Man this team does not look to the striker enough around the box. All else equal, get your target man a few touches.

[MikeForbes]

Need two men and a goalie to deal with the legend at the back post.

[Bushmancan]

Someone was saying about Caldwell. The defenders hand was out.

[PaceyWinger]

Lawrence looks fantastic. Speed, composure, and quality.

[Thomas]

Why the polarity of love or hate. I love the guy, but I am still very critical (for the DP money he is being paid) of his production over the last year or two.


See that, Jozy haters?

[rydermike]

Let Jozy take this. NOT bradley

[jloome]

Jozy doing the dirty work.

[MikeForbes]

Lawrence looks fantastic. Speed, composure, and quality.

He was the best leftback in MLS when he left and he absolutely should still be that at only 28.

[MightyDM]

Need two men and a goalie to deal with the legend at the back post.

Ha! Brilliant. And true

[jloome]

Beauty. That was a training ground piece.

[rydermike]

Let Jozy take this. NOT bradley

Never mind

[MightyDM]

For me Endoh was the right choice. Incredibly hard working, pace, experience.

[portu]

Solid performance tonight

[ag futbol]

Never mind
I still agree. Bradley almost over hit it to the tallest player on the field.

[gracos]

They did it boys, its looking better but one game doesnt make the whole season a success, anyways great job TFC

[MikeForbes]

Jozy! And Omar!

[Gringo Starr]

Omar robbed by Jozy

[MightyDM]

Jozy!

[Slick]

Congrats Armas.

[jloome]

Gritty hard work tonight and everyone concentrating.

[ag futbol]

How is that not a card flotus you dope

[ensco]

Attention. Attention.

Freight train now arriving in six yard box....

[Yohan]

oh thank god. this game is in the bag.

I give credit to Armas. it's like he's realized what his team was deficient in, and worked on it. like set pieces and pressing at the right time

[tfcfans]

My goodness - A Bradley FK to Omar with the header to Jozy — how long have we been waiting for that combination to come through?!

[MightyDM]

Bradley has been awesome tonight. Hard working. Precise. Immense.

[Bushmancan]

Two big strikers look like a handful for Columbus… although Columbus have not looked particularly good tonight. Not sure it injuries or a good game plan.

[OgtheDim]

Beauty. That was a training ground piece.


yes it was

[Rust]

Couldn't watch the game, how was Soteldo?

[MikeForbes]

Great win tonight. Pumped for it. Not so pumped to go into the absolute travesty of a pitch that is Yankee Stadium this weekend.

[rydermike]

; although Columbus have not looked particularly good tonight. Not sure it injuries or a good game plan.
It's because Columbus SC aren't as good as Columbus Crew

[PaceyWinger]

Huge game especially for some guys with ?s hanging over their heads.

[MikeForbes]

My goodness - A Bradley FK to Omar with the header to Jozy — how long have we been waiting for that combination to come through?!

USMNT fans are punching the air right now.

[jloome]

Came through when needed. Armas deserves a lot of credit tonight. He set them up right, brought in Altidore when he could be most effective.

soteldo is coming from a league where the ball does much more of the work so they’ll probably limit his time for a while.

[ManUtd4ever]

Great team effort, and we looked far more organized at both ends of the pitch.

[ag futbol]

I struggle to think of anyone who didn’t play better tonight than on the weekend, well done.

But more importantly, they actually played with a sense of position and awareness. Let’s hope what we saw on the weekend never comes back again

[PaceyWinger]

USMNT fans are punching the air right now.

None of them made the gold cup 40 man though lol.

[Yuushalinsky]

Couldn't watch the game, how was Soteldo?

Pretty spicy - very fast, great set pieces, almost scored if not for a great clearance. TFC is definitely better with a DP.

[MightyDM]

Came through when needed. Armas deserves a lot of credit tonight. He set them up right, brought in Altidore when he could be most effective.

soteldo is coming from a league where the ball does much more of the work so they’ll probably limit his time for a while.


Yes, credit where credit is due.

[MikeForbes]

Very happy about that. Jozy's best game in atleast a year. As a DP he needs to be starting every game, but maybe he would be better as a 30-40 minute player at this stage of his career?

[mowe]

Much needed 3 points.

[Smokecell]

Jozy is the best striker on this team period. We need this guy healthy and on our team.

[MightyDM]

Jozy is the best striker on this team period. We need this guy healthy and on our team.

Agreed. But why did they pick up Dom Dwyer? Moves to come I think.

[MightyDM]

If Priso isn’t hurt he has made that position his. Looks very assured today.

[Initial B]

This game seems hopeless.

But it's MLS, so this must mean victory is assured.
To be quoted for posterity.

[Yohan]

To be quoted for posterity.
prophetic words!

I just love the topsy turvy-ness of MLS

[noxx98]

Agreed. But why did they pick up Dom Dwyer? Moves to come I think.
Inconsistent health with Jozy and Ayo. Mullinho can't be relied on to get a goal in a big game. Plus Ayo is out of contract at the end of the season.

[DavemTFC]

If Priso isn’t hurt he has made that position his. Looks very assured today.
The only issue with him is I don't think he's played 90 mins yet this year (except maybe the home CCL legs?). He's the only player in midfield we have with the defensive abilities of Delgado, except Priso is also much better on the ball.

Overall, a very good performance though Armas' decisions and subs are still confusing as hell. Lawrence at LW instead of putting him at LB, Auro on the right, and Richie in midfield? Delgado on the wing and DeLeon as the 10 again?

Yefe definitely reminds of Seba, especially 2015 Seba, in the sense that he seems willing and able to carry the team on his back in attack. Concerning that he seemed to lose gas in the second half and was rightfully taken off. Surely Armas should figure out a way to limit who much pressing the likes of Soteldo and Pozuelo need to do

Side note: Cbus seem to have MLS cup hangover. Seems to happen to every team in recent years

[Areathrasher]

That was pleasing and a step in the right direction. Need to keep it up and get a result this weekend.

[OgtheDim]

I don't know, I generally see good positional play but a whole lot of bad passes by Priso, some of them in areas that give teams joy. He is only 18. I think when Oso & Poz come back, its DeLeon & Priso out of that lineup. Priso first one in & rotating.

[Yohan]

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

[Luanda]

One thing I noted was how much in better shape Jozy is...seems to have lost (more than) a few pounds and, as a result, he seemed much quicker tonight.

[James17930]

This team ...

Every time I think we should win, we lose. Every time I think we're for sure going to lose, we win.

[khso11]

Big 3pts, Bradley controlled the whole game, MVP. Can't wait for Pozuelo to get back, Soteldo's skill set will flourish with Poz on the field, and so will Jozy. Jozy showing what he can do when he's healthy, happy for him, hope this continues.

Bono, nice clean sheet.........but he's lucky the ref forgot his red card at home, Westburg needs to start.

[SirBobSaget]

oh thank god. this game is in the bag.

I give credit to Armas. it's like he's realized what his team was deficient in, and worked on it. like set pieces and pressing at the right time

Agreed, night and day compared to the NYRB game. There is some hope after all.

[flambe]

One thing I noted was how much in better shape Jozy is...seems to have lost (more than) a few pounds and, as a result, he seemed much quicker tonight.

agreed, he looked almost skinny!

[snowcrash]

Man Priso’s ability to find an extra second or two in order to find an outlet after winning the ball is something else.

Most guys are sweating bullets getting the ball in those sorts of positions

Are you referring to the play at the top of the box where a Mavinga tackle results in a loose ball that bounces to Priso? There were a couple of Columbus attackers near and he would have been fully justified to hoof it into the stands but he takes a second and then releases the ball down the right side for TFC player to run onto.

[noxx98]

One thing I noticed was Bradley was dropping back to the right or left of defence to gather the ball, rather than slotting in between the CBs. Perhaps allows the team to start attacks with a bit more width by feeding the wings or gives him the ability to change the side of attack. I don't remember seeing him do this much in the first few games.

[ag futbol]

Are you referring to the play at the top of the box where a Mavinga tackle results in a loose ball that bounces to Priso? There were a couple of Columbus attackers near and he would have been fully justified to hoof it into the stands but he takes a second and then releases the ball down the right side for TFC player to run onto.
Not sure if that was the play specifically but he seems to be able to do this all the time. He just slips into an extra half yard of space and finds the outlet rather than just lumping it upfield or just taking the lazy passing option.

He had some giveaways later in the game, to be fair. But to me a lot of that chalked up to fatigued and maybe a bit of inexperience. Overall, it’s easy to forget he’s still 18. Big future ahead for this kid if he puts in the work.

[Joe Kool]

I know we all feel Bono needs to see the bench and Q needs a chance in the game but since Armas seems to love Bono that won't happen anytime soon. They even mentioned it on the broadcast last night. But even in a game where he didn't really have to do a lot like yesterday he did that one crazy play where he ran way out of his net unnecessarily so that shows his judgement still needs work but the thing that bothers me most every game is when defenders pass him back the ball he hoofs it down the field and gives possession back to the other team. Most times we get a very difficult jump ball if we even have a player close to where his kick lands. Sometimes it is just to the other team with no TFC players in the area. I really don't get why he does that over and over. I think the other team ends up with the ball on those about 95% of the time. We are a better team than that and I think we can play out of the back more. Or is it just me?

[A Stick]

The only issue with him is I don't think he's played 90 mins yet this year (except maybe the home CCL legs?). He's the only player in midfield we have with the defensive abilities of Delgado, except Priso is also much better on the ball.

Overall, a very good performance though Armas' decisions and subs are still confusing as hell. Lawrence at LW instead of putting him at LB, Auro on the right, and Richie in midfield? Delgado on the wing and DeLeon as the 10 again?

Yefe definitely reminds of Seba, especially 2015 Seba, in the sense that he seems willing and able to carry the team on his back in attack. Concerning that he seemed to lose gas in the second half and was rightfully taken off. Surely Armas should figure out a way to limit who much pressing the likes of Soteldo and Pozuelo need to do

Side note: Cbus seem to have MLS cup hangover. Seems to happen to every team in recent years
Priso is the only youngster that has been consistently good. He actually wins 50/50 tackles. I can not for the life of me remember when Delgado last one a 50/50 tackle. Under Bradley's tutorship, Priso should turn into one hell of a defensive midfielder.

[Stress]

Agree with a lot that’s already been said but here are some thoughts as I watched.

- Bradley was great. That ball into Jozy was a peach. Too bad he couldn’t control it.

- Bono’s okay but there were some shocking decisions last night. The foul being the obvious one but I also thought the late play where he tried to catch the ball at the side of the 6 yard box over a group and then fumbled it was another stupid moment.

- Priso is a starter. Incredible composure for his age, good engine, strong challenges, and good passing range. Got sloppy late but you could tell he was gassed and needed a sub. Will be interesting to see how armas manages him with Delgado, Bradley, and Oso when they are all healthy.

- Deleon was the weak link tonight and there were many examples of why.

- Mullins gets a lot of hate but I think he’s perfect for how he was used last night. Provides a good outlet when we get to squeaky bum hoof the ball time. He holds the ball up well and creates some space and time for the rest to regroup. That little faint trick he did a couple times last night is going to become his new signature move.

[Ultra & Proud]

- Priso is a starter. Incredible composure for his age, good engine, strong challenges, and good passing range. Got sloppy late but you could tell he was gassed and needed a sub. Will be interesting to see how armas manages him with Delgado, Bradley, and Oso when they are all healthy.

- Deleon was the weak link tonight and there were many examples of why.

The rise of Priso would make me seriously consider trading Delgado since he isn't very good as a wide player and for me, Bradley (now) and Osorio + Priso (now + future) should have the CM spots locked up. DeLeon might as well just go. Save the money & use Schaff or Okello in the places he would normally take.

[Mike_S]

I don't know, I generally see good positional play but a whole lot of bad passes by Priso, some of them in areas that give teams joy. He is only 18. I think when Oso & Poz come back, its DeLeon & Priso out of that lineup. Priso first one in & rotating.

I share that sentiment as well, particularly in the 2nd half. I also believe his positioning was a bit of an issue in the 2nd half as it didn't look like he gave himself proper spacing with his teammates, especially Bradley.

Not to knock him - he definitely should be playing - but I think he could do better. :-)

[MightyDM]

Are you referring to the play at the top of the box where a Mavinga tackle results in a loose ball that bounces to Priso? There were a couple of Columbus attackers near and he would have been fully justified to hoof it into the stands but he takes a second and then releases the ball down the right side for TFC player to run onto.

That was a very nice play - and there was a second one like it - calm and composed under pressure.

[MightyDM]

I know we all feel Bono needs to see the bench and Q needs a chance in the game but since Armas seems to love Bono that won't happen anytime soon. They even mentioned it on the broadcast last night. But even in a game where he didn't really have to do a lot like yesterday he did that one crazy play where he ran way out of his net unnecessarily so that shows his judgement still needs work but the thing that bothers me most every game is when defenders pass him back the ball he hoofs it down the field and gives possession back to the other team. Most times we get a very difficult jump ball if we even have a player close to where his kick lands. Sometimes it is just to the other team with no TFC players in the area. I really don't get why he does that over and over. I think the other team ends up with the ball on those about 95% of the time. We are a better team than that and I think we can play out of the back more. Or is it just me?

There is a chart somewhere in one of the threads that clearly shows this.

[OgtheDim]

Team brought Bono out for the presser today & did a tweet about not listening to "the noise" with Bono's picture.


I'd say somebody in management got steamed about all the questions on Bono/Q & communications, for some reason, is going along with it.

[rydermike]

There is a chart somewhere in one of the threads that clearly shows this.

https://twitter.com/plattoli/status/1391408838100856836

[MightyDM]

https://mobile.twitter.com/plattoli/status/1391408838100856836

Yes that’s the one

[ag futbol]

Forgive my layman stupidity, but some aspects of that analysis goes completely over my head (and I generally like Platt).

It’s basically saying, well it doesn’t matter if Bono completes these passes , because the idea is to create 50/50 balls and recover? Good grief.

[MikeForbes]

I have always gone by the idea that when the keeper has the ability to throw the ball he should. It creates a much higher percentage chance of retaining the ball. Especially a guy like Bono who struggles distributing with his feet. Why not throw it to a full back or centerback if they are available unless it is the last minutes of the game and the ball needs to get up the field in a hurry?

[noimpactinmtl]

Forgive my layman stupidity, but some aspects of that analysis goes completely over my head (and I generally like Platt).

It’s basically saying, well it doesn’t matter if Bono completes these passes , because the idea is to create 50/50 balls and recover? Good grief.

Most goals are typically scored from turnovers in own third. The goal of counterpressing is to win the ball high up the pitch, which is the RB model.

[ag futbol]

Most goals are typically scored from turnovers in own third. The goal of counterpressing is to win the ball high up the pitch, which is the RB model.
I get that. But wouldn’t the caveat be: under what conditions can you actually create enough turnovers in the final 3rd to make the tactic worthwhile?

My hunch is the turnovers that lead to goals are far more likely to be the type that involve a quick recovery after the end of an attacking sequence. Situations where you have numbers in the final 3rd and can quickly press the opposition into giving you the ball back.

[Joe Kool]

Team brought Bono out for the presser today & did a tweet about not listening to "the noise" with Bono's picture.


I'd say somebody in management got steamed about all the questions on Bono/Q & communications, for some reason, is going along with it.

Fans opinions are just "noise" now. They should put that in a marketing campaign to sell some tickets. Haha.

[OgtheDim]

FWIW - here's the tweet

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1392838393248292864

[Canary10]

One thing I was really glad to see last night is Omar getting in on the set piece that set up Jozy's goal. We should be using his height better. He could be scoring 4-5 goals a year on set pieces.

[Stress]

One thing I was really glad to see last night is Omar getting in on the set piece that set up Jozy's goal. We should be using his height better. He could be scoring 4-5 goals a year on set pieces.

Pretty sure we target him on almost every set piece (at least most corners into the box). It’s all about the quality of those balls and not the frequency IMO.

[CBTFC]

An oddball request here...does anyone have any links/etc on how to re-watch the full game from last night?

Much thanks in advance :)

[MikeForbes]

FWIW - here's the tweet

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1392838393248292864

That really bugs me. Makes it look like the social media team just laughs at all of us who invest so much time into this team because Bono got a fairly easy clean sheet.

[ag futbol]

That really bugs me. Makes it look like the social media team just laughs at all of us who invest so much time into this team because Bono got a fairly easy clean sheet.
We’ll see how far this management group gets. At least they’re supporting the player as opposed to just outright being dismissive.

I don’t share their opinion but it’s sort of funny that one question from a reporter and dank chatter on the internet requires a snarky response.

[MikeForbes]

We’ll see how far this management group gets. At least they’re supporting the player as opposed to just outright being dismissive.

I don’t share their opinion but it’s sort of funny that one question from a reporter and dank chatter on the internet requires a snarky response.

Just seems overly combative from a channel that is supposed to be for us fans. Is it outside of our rights to want to see the guy who has been a rock for us the past two years over the guy who had only won a single game this season until last night?

[ensco]

^I am fine with it. If it helps Alex, it’s OK.

Let's face it, being a GK is the hardest job in the world. I remember Gump Worsley (a guy 99% of you won’t know, an NHL goalie from long ago) saying, “how would you like a job where 18000 people scream and a red light goes on, every time you screw up?”

[OgtheDim]

... I remember Gump Worsley (a guy 99% of you won’t know, an NHL goalie from long ago) saying, “how would you like a job where 18000 people scream and a red light goes on, every time you screw up?”


TIL through wikipedia the guy played soccer as well & played in the equivalent of the Voyageurs back in the 50's


https://img.comc.com/i/Hockey/1954-55/Topps---Base/10/Gump-Worsley.jpg?id=17f959aa-6842-489f-9e34-2aeeacc72261&size=zoom&side=back


https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=SYMtAAAAIBAJ&sjid=d5kFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3963%2C2709073

[jabbronies]

Forgive my layman stupidity, but some aspects of that analysis goes completely over my head (and I generally like Platt).

It’s basically saying, well it doesn’t matter if Bono completes these passes , because the idea is to create 50/50 balls and recover? Good grief.

i think the better conclusion is that Bono is still airing balls up the middle and off to the sides wildly like he was doing in 2018 before they went and got Westberg who distributes with purpose.

[ensco]

TIL through wikipedia the guy played soccer as well & played in the equivalent of the Voyageurs back in the 50's


https://img.comc.com/i/Hockey/1954-55/Topps---Base/10/Gump-Worsley.jpg?id=17f959aa-6842-489f-9e34-2aeeacc72261&size=zoom&side=back


https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=SYMtAAAAIBAJ&sjid=d5kFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3963%2C2709073

I read Gump's autobiography a few years back. Not only was he a serious soccer player, he played on a Saskatchewan Selects team that had a friendly in the 1950s against... Tottenham Hotspur!

The Sask Selects lost 13-0.

EDIT: It was 18-1
https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/news-archive-1/tour-2014-the-show-goes-on/

[rydermike]

I read Gump's autobiography a few years back. Not only was he a serious soccer player, he played on a Saskatchewan Selects team that had a friendly in the 1950s against... Tottenham Hotspur!

The Sask Selects lost 13-0.

I recently learned that Peter Zezel was another guy who played in the NHL and pro soccer. Played on Canada's U20 team, then had brief stint in the old NASL and the original CSL (not the current corrupt one - the original Canadian pro D1 league)

[ensco]

I recently learned that Peter Zezel was another guy who played in the NHL and pro soccer. Played on Canada's U20 team, then had brief stint in the old NASL and the original CSL (not the current corrupt one - the original Canadian pro D1 league)

Zezel was good with his feet in hockey too - he was famous for a faceoff trick, tying guys up and using his feet to kick the puck to his teammates.

He had seats near me in TFC's early days at BMO. People were constantly coming up to him to say hi. Very sad, he had a rare disease and died young.

Only Gump ever played in both a Stanley Cup Final and the Canadian soccer championship final
https://www.thestar.com/opinion/2007/02/16/a_champ_in_2_leagues.html

[MightyDM]

I watched Gump Worsley take a slapshot from Bobby Hull right off his forehead. No mask. On TV and might have been a highlight or replay, but I watched it. Almost killed him. Incredibly tough. Never knew that he played soccer. Wouldn’t be allowed nowadays. Which is sad.

[East Coast Red]

Let's face it, being a GK is the hardest job in the world. I remember Gump Worsley (a guy 99% of you won’t know, an NHL goalie from long ago) saying, “how would you like a job where 18000 people scream and a red light goes on, every time you screw up?”

As an ex keeper myself, I do always have sympathy for no1's. Pretty much every mistake is punished to the full. But I don't see any of this "Noise" being a criticism of Bono, but directed at the coach's selection of Bono. I think it is fair to say that the general opinion of most on this board is that Q is the better all round keeper and therefore should be playing. I can't help but think that this tweet is pretty insulting to the views and knowledge of the majority of fans, and is very poorly done. A PR disaster, and probably just heaps more pressure on Bono.

[Joe Kool]

As an ex keeper myself, I do always have sympathy for no1's. Pretty much every mistake is punished to the full. But I don't see any of this "Noise" being a criticism of Bono, but directed at the coach's selection of Bono. I think it is fair to say that the general opinion of most on this board is that Q is the better all round keeper and therefore should be playing. I can't help but think that this tweet is pretty insulting to the views and knowledge of the majority of fans, and is very poorly done. A PR disaster, and probably just heaps more pressure on Bono.

This is it for me. Nothing I have read or said myself is a direct hit on Bono but totally about the coaching decision on how to use him. I have nothing against Bono and I am sure he is doing the best he can and working hard and he seems like a nice guy and good teammate and all that. This is not about him personally at all and that is what Bono needs to realize if nothing else from the "noise" around this. We just want the team to win and majority of fans and pundits think that is with Q so we are entitled to our opinion. This is pro sports and not houseleague where everyone gets an equal chance.

[Mike_S]

Fun fact: Our boy Gump was born on this day in 1929!


TIL through wikipedia the guy played soccer as well & played in the equivalent of the Voyageurs back in the 50's


https://img.comc.com/i/Hockey/1954-55/Topps---Base/10/Gump-Worsley.jpg?id=17f959aa-6842-489f-9e34-2aeeacc72261&size=zoom&side=back


https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=SYMtAAAAIBAJ&sjid=d5kFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3963%2C2709073

[ensco]

Fun fact: Our boy Gump was born on this day in 1929!

Haha.

OK one more Gump story.

When he was with the Rangers, who were the worst team in the NHL in the 1950s, he was asked by reporters: “which team gives you the most trouble?” Answer: “The Rangers”.

OK OK one more. He smoked 50 cigarettes a day, and smoked during intermission.

They don’t make them like this anymore.

[MightyDM]

Haha.

OK one more Gump story.

When he was with the Rangers, who were the worst team in the NHL in the 1950s, he was asked by reporters: “which team gives you the most trouble?” Answer: “The Rangers”.

OK OK one more. He smoked 50 cigarettes a day, and smoked during intermission.

They don’t make them like this anymore.

Lafleur was a smoker too. And that answer about the Rangers is hilarious