MLS Match Day 1 - TFC @ Dallas Sat Feb 26 5:30pm - You Know How I Feel

[OgtheDim]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHs98TEYecM


And this Old World is a New World

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

Have At It People

[MikeForbes]

Score predictions? I say 1-0 TFC. Jimenez with a first half goal.

[jloome]

Score predictions? I say 1-0 TFC. Jimenez with a first half goal.

I'll go 1-1. Very similar teams in talent depth, both have danger pieces, both have holes. We're away from home but I dig the Bob vibe so far.

OT, does the same person post the "how many points this season" poll each year? Time for that madness to start!

[rocktml]

2-0 Dallas

[Mr. Inbetween]

Nice, top one, my selector.
For me its another Nina sung classic... about time... forces changes, brings an end but also offers a new beginning; gives us hope.
Who knows where the time goes... https://youtu.be/OXeh742_jak
Hoping for a draw but likely a loss; 2-1. For now, I think the odds are in Dallas's favour.
Lets see if we get a glimpse of what Bob The Builder really has in mind.
COYR!

[Auzzy]

Holy crap the season is starting in 6 days?!?! I had no idea, and I don't think I'm mentally ready for it.

[Oldtimer]

2-0 Dallas

Seconded.

[James17930]

I'm going to be cautiously optimistic and say a draw.

[MikeForbes]

Gonna be a huge game for JMR and Shaff. Dallas, like any logical team is gonna attack these kids full stop. Their likely starters on the wing are Arriola and Velasco who could very well be two of the ten best wingers in MLS. Salcedo is gonna be be the linchpin to this game, I think.

[jloome]

Gonna be a huge game for JMR and Shaff. Dallas, like any logical team is gonna attack these kids full stop. Their likely starters on the wing are Arriola and Velasco who could very well be two of the ten best wingers in MLS. Salcedo is gonna be be the linchpin to this game, I think.

They had a good point on mlssoccer this morning, which is that for all their offensive promise, Arriola and Ferreira have career-best goals years of 7 and 8 respectively. With Pepi gone, they've lost some firepower.

[Soccerpro]

2-0 Dallas.

We've got kids playing out of position on the wings and a severe lack of depth. We also only have one seemingly decent striker healthy and available right now who is brand new to MLS. We need to pump the brakes.

[MightyDM]

Holy crap the season is starting in 6 days?!?! I had no idea, and I don't think I'm mentally ready for it.

Love this post

[Blindside16]

Early weather forecast say 5° and rain. I honestly don't know what to expect Saturday. I will go with a 2-1 loss only because I don't know if this team has been able to find it's identity yet. That may not come to the summer. I think Peruzza bangs home an ugly one to start the year

[Section 223]

Early weather forecast say 5° and rain. I honestly don't know what to expect Saturday. I will go with a 2-1 loss only because I don't know if this team has been able to find it's identity yet. That may not come to the summer. I think Peruzza bangs home an ugly one to start the year
My expectations for the first half of the season are low, I expect this team to fight and struggle for every point, only until the summer when Insigne arrives with one or two others do I see this club consistently challenging for wins. I will also go on record to say that Bob Bradley’s contribution will minimal. Bellotti and Insigne are game changers not the coach.

[Smokecell]

I foresee a lot of 0-0, 1-0L and 1-1 matches until July. I think we'll be more competitive than most think this first half, but I do agree that every point will be a scrap.

[CBTFC]

Anyone aware of any Toronto "watch parties"??

With Scallywags, Football Factory, Shoeless Joe's on King, etc no longer around, where to go to catch the game??

[Yohan]

Holy crap the season is starting in 6 days?!?! I had no idea, and I don't think I'm mentally ready for it.
yeah, me too.

I don't even know what to expect from this team.

I'd be happy with a draw, and some semblance of a tactical system. Not just chicken with heads cut off running around

[Joe Kool]

After watching the pre-season games I thought I would have a better idea of how the season will start. Turns out I have no idea. I noticed that we seemed to have a lot of the ball but generated a limited amount of chances and had the occasional defensive collapse. I think that may be the way it goes into the season as they work out the new system and work off the preseason rust. Low scoring games but not always in our favour which may be the case with the opener. I would love to be pleasantly surprised at something else though :)

[Lil'John]

Our little group of half a dozen will be watching at the Firkin on Harbour, as always.


Anyone aware of any Toronto "watch parties"??

With Scallywags, Football Factory, Shoeless Joe's on King, etc no longer around, where to go to catch the game??

[leedsandTFC]

1-1 jiminez for us

[notthesun]

https://twitter.com/JohnMolinaro/status/1496909807672266752

This is certainly nice to hear for a change.

[OgtheDim]

In Jesus we trust, it seems

[jloome]

In Jesus we trust, it seems

Week 1: Jesus vs. Jesus.

[MikeForbes]

If only the game was on Sunday.

[OgtheDim]

Based on the scrum with Bradley


Some of the youth are ahead of others - I suspect somebody is going to start & somebody isn't going to make that bench.

Dallas is an unknown in some ways - mentioned Arriola & Jesus in particular.

He seems happy with where the team is given the changes involved & how much time they have had to work on things.

*****

And, oh my gawd, Bradley really is the thinking man's coach. He's not an ass like Arena - Bradley is genuine in his talk & thinking.

He just sounds so....honest.

[OgtheDim]

I think we struggle in this one - 3-1 Dallas

BUT...the seeds of 2022 success will be there to see.

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/SportsAviation/status/1497374720731275266


Reaction from my dog

https://twitter.com/OgtheDim/status/1444791033645223940

[James17930]

Week 1: Jesus vs. Jesus.

The battle for who is Jesuser.

[MikeForbes]

Game day has finally arrived! Got the vodka chilling in the freezer and wings ready to be cooked.

[613reppingTFC]

Woo it's game day. COYR
New season, lots of changes let's do this!

[MightyDM]

I think we struggle in this one - 3-1 Dallas

BUT...the seeds of 2022 success will be there to see.

3-2. Both teams are unfinished. Jimenez / Peruzza get our goals.

I wonder if Chung starts over JMR

[Auzzy]

Game day has finally arrived! Got the vodka chilling in the freezer and wings ready to be cooked.

I hope you're going with Canadian or Ukrainian vodka or something like that. :D

Georgian Bay Vodka is supposed to be very good but haven't had a chance to try it yet...

[notthesun]

Marshall-Rutty hat trick g:D

[MikeForbes]

I hope you're going with Canadian or Ukrainian vodka or something like that. :D

Georgian Bay Vodka is supposed to be very good buy haven't had a chance to try it yet...

The NSLC (Nova Scotia Liquor Commission) actually pulled all the vodka from that country we shall not name. I got a bottle of Tito's. Tried it for the first time a couple weeks ago and it goes down like a dream.

[portu]

2 nil Dallas

Won’t be close imo, Dallas owns this game

[jloome]

You an tell it’s season kickoff day. I’m watching a Union-Minnesota game just because it’s on first.

[Auzzy]

The NSLC (Nova Scotia Liquor Commission) actually pulled all the vodka from that country we shall not name. I got a bottle of Tito's. Tried it for the first time a couple weeks ago and it goes down like a dream.

Thanks for the tip, sounds like another vodka I gotta try!

[Yohan]

Thanks for the tip, sounds like another vodka I gotta try!
The Poles tend to make decent vodka. I like Wyborowa

Stolichnaya is made in Latvia. Stoli Elit is very good.

Reyka is from Iceland and it's also very good for the price

[noxx98]

Incredibly excited for the game and season to start off. Not as focused on the result, but more so on the process.
- How does Pozuelo look in the role BB wants him to play (more defensively and structured)
- How do our young wing backs look?
- What's the Salcedo/Mavinga partnership looking like?
- What does our pressing system look like?
- How does Jesus look for the team? Does the summer of Perruzza kick off today?
Very excited. I think we lose 2-1, with a goal coming from JJ.

[MikeForbes]

You an tell it’s season kickoff day. I’m watching a Union-Minnesota game just because it’s on first.

I have never been so excited to get home and watch a Vancouver Whitecaps game.

[noxx98]

Since there's no thread for other MLS games this week... Vancouver does not look good.

[jloome]

Since there's no thread for other MLS games this week... Vancouver does not look good.

Just zero urgency. Can’t break Columbus’ press, defenders badly late to get back into position on both goal. A few more games like this and Vanni will be joining Dos Santos in the former managers club.

Crepeau probably would’ve got to the deflected dribbler.

[MikeForbes]

Nagbe and Artur are just running the game. Teibert and Baldisimo might aswell not even be on the field.

[OgtheDim]

Since there's no thread for other MLS games this week... Vancouver does not look good.


Fixing that...

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/ArnoldcommaJon/status/1497687457348956161

John Arnold covers the Fire really well & is THE goto for CONCACAF.


Weather though is BAD...cold & rain.

[MikeForbes]

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1497688294112514052?s=20&t=1GygrBUGwwotgPJkxZmi3Q

[MikeForbes]

Alex Bono will never not impress new coaches with how tall and handsome he is. Also, that bench is... Thin.

[noxx98]

Only surprise really is Bono getting the start over Westberg. Looks good otherwise though.

[portu]

This line-up is worse than last year and it's not even close. Disaster off-season. Holding on for dear life until Insigne.

[MikeForbes]

Kerr and Nelson have to show something today.

[OgtheDim]

Alex Bono will never not impress new coaches with how tall and handsome he is. Also, that bench is... Thin.


Yeh, I don't get Bono. They HAVE to be looking for an upgrade for 2023 when his contract is done.

As for the bench, that's probably all our best subs. Given that the guys who left had to leave, this was always going to be a crappy time.

There is no depth, but would we really prefer the 2021 team?


Looking forward to seeing the yutes battle it out in cold wet conditions.

[Smokecell]

Deandre Kerr being an opening day starter tells you all you need to know about this off-season.

Let’s see what the kids can do.

[Derko]

Hoping the TSN live stream is better that it was this afternoon

[MikeForbes]

So much of this early season is gonna depend on Pozuelo returning to form.

[MikeForbes]

You know what? If we look better than Vancouver, I'll consider that a win.

[ag futbol]

Go easy on Kerr. We easily could have loaded up on Nick DeLeon style MLS lifers. They see something in the kid.

Personally I though we majorly downgraded last season when we yanked our kids and put in vets.

Mildly optimistic but I know on paper this is an inexperienced group.

To me this is an upgrade because you have a better CB, an actual forward who can score, and most importantly Pozuelo who is over the yips

Edit: 5 minutes extra time in Vancouver when they are down 4-0. MLS officials are clueless

[OgtheDim]

Frankly, if there is a semblance of organization, that's a long term W today.

This offseason's lack of actual bodies coming is something we haven't seen since the days after Mariner left - being stuck under crappy contracts for players that didn't want to be around or were good enough to be around. The mess was 3 years in the making, hidden by 2019 & covid.

[MikeForbes]

Go easy on Kerr. We easily could have loaded up on Nick DeLeon style MLS lifers. They see something in the kid.

Personally I though we majorly downgraded last season when we yanked our kids and put in vets.

Mildly optimistic but I know on paper this is an inexperienced group.

To me this is an upgrade because you have a better CB, an actual forward who can score, and most importantly Pozuelo who is over the yips

I'll go easy on Kerr, but Jayden Nelson needs to show something. He looked slightly better at the end of last season, but he has been the least impressive of the very hyped youth movement.

[ag futbol]

I'll go easy on Kerr, but Jayden Nelson needs to show something. He looked slightly better at the end of last season, but he has been the least impressive of the very hyped youth movement.
I would count myself among Nelson (really the coaching staff’s) biggest critic last year. Nothing close to first team ready.

From what I saw of preseason he looked much better. Playing inside the team and not looking like Mo Babouli part ii. That said, still only preseason…

[Yuushalinsky]

If we're using Kerr Nelson at the wings, Destro/Insigne can slot pretty comfily in.

[MikeForbes]

Alright, catch you guys at halftime. Let's shock everyone, including myself and have a 3-0 lead after 45.

[James17930]

I'm not going to make any assumptions about these players until I see them on the pitch.

Let's go!!

[tfcfans]

I think the best we can hope for is that today will be the first....”start the car” of the season?!.....LOL....

[Thomas]

Not more Caldwell

[noxx98]

Good little interplay between Nelson and Shaff to get a nice cross into the box.

[jloome]

Nelson has grown. Bigger for sure.

The scrambling defensive series began because Kerr was ball watching instead of getting back into position.

[SirBobSaget]

Nelson upped his physical game. He was so timid last year, so far this game he's bumped a couple of guys off the ball to take possession.

[portu]

Kit could use a little more red but I actually really like the new threads

[noxx98]

Really good pressing there by Nelson to force a turnover. Glad he's showing up.

[SirBobSaget]

Nelson has grown. Bigger for sure.

The scrambling defensive series began because Kerr was ball watching instead of getting back into position.

Shaff also looks heavier and ... older. Maybe the haircut though.

[ag futbol]

That’s just poor marking by Shaff unfortunately. But looking a bit naive in our own 3rd

[tfcfans]

This looks familiar —- is it July yet?

[Soccerpro]

Shaff wants to be a starter in MLS? Mark your damn man like a grown up.

There's going to be a lot of growing pains.

TFC have NEVER WON IN DALLAS BEFORE.

[Bushmancan]

The flag was up!!!! That was not enough to overrule.

[noxx98]

I don't know if that was clear and obvious... seemed pretty close to me. Shaff needs to do better there though.

[portu]

almost like you can't dump all your fullbacks a month before the season.....

[OgtheDim]

That goal was started by a bad clearance by Shaff.

He & JMR have done a few like that - winger passes expecting somebody behind them.

[notthesun]

How is that enough to overrule the call on the field???? He looked more off than on

[ag futbol]

Okay was he not offside on that first pass. How was it “obvious” enough to overturn?

Oh MLS officiating…

[Soccerpro]

Shaff with another bad play on Arriola. How hard is it to clear the ball?

[Bobo]

I'm confused. Offside is a matter of fact. Either on or off. What judgment did the ref even have to make at the monitor?

[portu]

MLS 1.0 Long Ball

[Bushmancan]

Could they have been so stupid that they were looking at the second pass? Regardless JMR played that poorly.

[ag futbol]

Come on Bradley.. you hit that right Nelson is through on goal. Horrible

[Soccerpro]

Nice to see that Jayden Nelson doesn't look absolutely clueless like he did last year. He puts his head up and looks to move the ball this year.

[OgtheDim]

Bradley ...ugh

[Soccerpro]

Nelson picks his spot and beats two men into the box. I really like his growth so far this year. ..

[Soccerpro]

Shaff with a yellow. Not good....

[SirBobSaget]

Kerr has been close to getting the ball all game. Complete non factor.

[SneijderOranje]

jimenez looks good.

[Soccerpro]

It's clear why Shaff is at LB now. He's had several dangerous crosses from using his speed on the overlap. Still needs to figure out how to actually play defence...

[Amir.]

Yeah Shaffelburg isnt good enough at left back...gotta put Mavinga there and O'Neill at CB until Criscito arrives

[Soccerpro]

I really like what I see out there, all things considered with our incomplete roster. Salcedo has been a rock at CB, Jimenez has looked great, Nelson has looked dangerous. This is better than what I expected in game #1.

[James17930]

Guys, you've got to temper your expectations a bit here.

We're rebuilding. There are going to be some growing pains. I think we're not going to be great to start off the year, but I think we will be competitive. Give them at least 10 games before making any grand pronouncements.

[ag futbol]

Although inexperienced, I would consider subbing in Petrasso for Shaff, the former is clearly an actual fullback and IMO has longer run potential. Shaff just looks square peg / round hole

[portu]

JMR is playing his game, clear talent, but he’s not playing RB

[OgtheDim]

Priso for Bradley please - he got bypassed on the way for that chance that ended with that Bono save.


Attack at least trying to penetrate the box.


Mavinga & Salcedo decent enough.

[portu]

Guys, you've got to temper your expectations a bit here.

We're rebuilding. There are going to be some growing pains. I think we're not going to be great to start off the year, but I think we will be competitive. Give them at least 10 games before making any grand pronouncements.
This isn’t hockey, have higher expectations for “rebuilds”

[ag futbol]

Maybe this is harsh but I feel like Bradley is done

[Bushmancan]

^yes on JMR, and we need to maximize his value right now. He will need to learn Obrian is sneaking behind him. .. third time now

[Soccerpro]

Shaff's man nearly scores...

[Soccerpro]

Maybe this is harsh but I feel like Bradley is done

I think we'll see Priso at about 60 mins.

[OgtheDim]

To be fair, Shaff has not been as bad at LB as Hagglund was at RB 7 years ago in Dallas when he got burned twice in the first 7 minutes.

[James17930]

This isn’t hockey, have higher expectations for “rebuilds”

So 25 mins into the first game of the season is already enough for you to decide?

I would try to be more patient than that.

[Soccerpro]

2-0 Dallas.

[noxx98]

The defending so far is not good

[gracos]

we could bring in Messi, CR7 and Neymar in their prime, with our current lineup we wouldnt even be close, still loads of work to do

[portu]

So 25 mins into the first game of the season is already enough for you to decide?

I would try to be more patient than that.
Lol cool story bro

[portu]

Bono looked pub league on that goal holy shit

[Bobo]

WHY IS THE REF GOING TO THE MONITOR FOR OFFSIDE?

Did MLS decide to make up its own rules on the usage of VAR?

[Soccerpro]

This isn’t hockey, have higher expectations for “rebuilds”

Our best players aren't coming until summer. We have kids as converted wing backs. We're not going to win many games at the beginning of this year. To think otherwise is nuts.

[portu]

Good job Shaff keeping him off

[portu]

Our best players aren't coming until summer. We have kids as converted wing backs. We're not going to win many games at the beginning of this year. To think otherwise is nuts.
They should have planned better. There is an extremely large player pool at this level worldwide. They suck at planning and getting deals done.

[SirBobSaget]

Kerr was just staring and jogging near the Dallas guy in possession, JMR had to bust in from 5 yards away to put pressure. He's no where near the level. Happy with everyone else though.

[notthesun]

JMR looks good, Jimenez looks good but we're not getting him enough touches.

[portu]

Bradley is finished

[Soccerpro]

They should have planned better. There is an extremely large player pool at this level worldwide. They suck at planning and getting deals done.

Gut jobs aren't easy, especially ones of this size. It's happening in the most realistic way possible. It is what it is.

[JoesphNdo]

I know it's an unpopular opinion but to my dying day I will maintain Michael Bradley in the opposition half looking to be creative is a possession black hole. He should never be in that position, he isn't half as good as it as he seems to think

[Soccerpro]

Deandre Kerr needs to get involved. Dude's been a passenger.

[notthesun]

Shaffelburg saved a goal with his pace there

[SneijderOranje]

Kerr was just staring and jogging near the Dallas guy in possession, JMR had to bust in from 5 yards away to put pressure. He's no where near the level. Happy with everyone else though.

Kerr needs some seasoning, looks a step slow on everything

[Soccerpro]

Priso needs to come in for Bradley. He just doesn't offer anything.

[SirBobSaget]

Bradley is finished

Is Priso fully fit?

[James17930]

Lol cool story bro

What's up with you Portu? Why do you have to be so confrontational? I don't believe we've ever had any negative interactions before, and I think we can disagree on this point without you being rude.

[Soccerpro]

I like what I see from JMR, but if this kid is as good as everyone says he is, I need to know if he has elite wheels. I haven't see him sprint yet..

[OgtheDim]

Kerr wants to play centre forward....needs to be nailed to the sideline. Hopefully he learns but right now he is playing into Dallas tactics.

[ag futbol]

They should sub Kerr and move JMR up. Assuming we have a RB somewhere on the roster…

[noxx98]

Is Priso fully fit?
He's been playing the second half of our pre-season games, so I assume he's good to go

[Soccerpro]

Mavinga just blasts it by Shaff and out of touch instead of passing out to Bono, Yikes.

[Soccerpro]

They should sub Kerr and move JMR up. Assuming we have a RB somewhere on the roster…

That's the issue, I dont think we do.

[noxx98]

They should sub Kerr and move JMR up. Assuming we have a RB somewhere on the roster…
Chung is our only RB option. Might prefer Perruzza up top and Jimenez out on the right, with Kerr coming off.

[jloome]

I think we’re doing okay. Obvious issues in obvious areas. Mavinga is having a stinker which is never helpful.

[Thomas]

Bradley has been poor thus far, and he keeps passing back. There were a couple of times where they could have gotten something going.

[Soccerpro]

Deandre Kerr drifted into the middle and just watched his man receive the ball wide and play it forward almost resulting in a penalty. He's lost out there.

[noxx98]

Great goal, that was really well played.

[Bushmancan]

That was beautiful..

[ag futbol]

Yes sir!

[Soccerpro]

Osorio goal! Off a cross by Shaff!

[notthesun]

What a flick that is from Jimenez

[benito]

There we go!

[Thomas]

Nice play and goal! The JJ flick was nice.

[SirBobSaget]

Jimenez has been really impressive so far, looking like a great pickup.

[jloome]

Man, Jimenez is a find. 1-1!

[mowe]

Beautiful goal.

[OgtheDim]

Oh look...a central forward flicking on the ball....been a LONG time since we saw that.

[ag futbol]

Caldwell, as usual is out of his mind blaming Mavinga and Salcedo for defensive shape.

They are being dragged all over the place by two inexperienced fullbacks and are shielded in front by Michael Bradley in a wheelchair

[witenite]

Tfc playing like it’s fifa 22. Pushing Right on the direction pad. All out attack

[Bushmancan]

The young Dallas forwards are pretty impressive… just think we could have OG

[OgtheDim]

Salcedo isn't going to be beaten on long balls like Gonzalez was. Nice to finally have 2 decent speed CB's.

[Amir.]

what a ball by bradley in the run of shaffelburg

[jloome]

Hmmm when shaff shouldered a guy that hard it was a yellow

[noxx98]

You can hear Bob yelling at Kerr there. Hopefully he knows he needs to do better. He has room to grow, but he needs to give 110% effort at all times while the technique catches up.

[Soccerpro]

Half time thoughts:

1. Sub Bradley for Ralph Priso
2. Deandre Kerr needs to get subbed off, he doesn't really know what he's doing, especially on defence.
3. Jimenez is class
4. Shaff is great on the overlap but needs a shock collar to defend properly sometimes.
5. Salcedo is nice.
6. We don't look like we're going to get scored on every single possession like last year although we still have lots of gaps and holes.
7. Mavinga still doesn't use his brain all the time.

[Bushmancan]

All in all, a good first half. For a minute i thought we were in for a beating. Their front four are going to cause trouble for a lot of teams.

[ag futbol]

We look like a young team, I think that much is obvious.

Kerr needs to be subbed. Just not on the pace.

Priso needs to be starting. Ridiculous to be holding him in reserve while fielding so many green players

[James17930]

It's possible that Priso sn't ready to go 90 mins yet coming back from his injury. So maybe he'll come on later.

[jloome]

Gotta like the second half of that half.

we have teething issues ahead but outside of Mavingas brain cramps and Shaff overcommitting, that was better than most of what we saw last season.

Poz drifts left constantly. Jimenez and Arriola the two best players on the pitch by some measure.
JMR looking pretty good. Nelson looking much more dangerous. Bradley started poorly but got better.

Kerr looks more striker than winger although with his size and tricky footwork you can see the intent. Needs
the play to come to him too much though.

[Auzzy]

I knew we would struggle with some of the youth, especially at FB, and I'm actually not too worried about that. What does worry me is how many of the senior players are doing, some of it is shocking.

TFC offense pretty good, some great combinations. Final passes and finishing were missing until the goal, but overall I liked what I saw (except for Kerr). Dallas also gave away some chances to TFC that they didn't capitalize on.

But some shockers in defence and defensive midfield. Mavinga and Salcedo going way too far forward when both fullbacks were also forward. Mavinga and others dicking around with the ball in front of the net and almost giving away goals. Bradley and others kinda drifting around, not looking like the know where they should be and why. Also some really poor passes out of the back which almost lead to goals against. Bono some really hot and some really cold moments as per usual.

Really lucky that Dallas only got one goal. On the other hand the officiating sucks. Yellow for for Shaffelburg was a joke, considering some Dallas fouls that were not punished. Also no way was there enough on VAR to overturn the offside on Dallas' goal.

[Yuushalinsky]

The goal was pretty much the best of our attackers all swarming - Pozuelo kicks it out to Shaffelburg who gets a beautiful cross and an even better touch from Jimenez to get the ball over the foot of the Dallas GK. Osorio just finishes clinically and we get it.

[noxx98]

TSN showing that the Dallas goal really should have stayed as offside... No idea why that was overturned.

[Amir.]

bradley was really good in the last 15 min

[noxx98]

TSN showing that the Dallas goal really should have stayed as offside... No idea why that was overturned.
https://twitter.com/Eric_Giacometti/status/1497717630853160968

No way this was clear and obvious. Respect the people on the field unless you actually have a reason to overturn it.

[Graeme]

I'm not sure what game everyone is watching, but JMR is leaving people wide open in dangerous spots nearly constantly, including the first goal. He is definitely no RB (yet).

[MikeForbes]

I am praising Jesus after that first half.

Michael Bradley is so toast. He isn't gonna get more mobile either.

JMR wants to be a midfielder, and I honestly think he'd be incredible at it.

Shaff is gonna be a top LB in the MLS getting forward. He needs a world of work on his defensive game though.

Kerr looks like a guy who played in the NCAA last year.

[DinamoTFC]

So far I like what I See. Salcedo Rutty Jiminez very positive.

[rydermike]

I feel like we're getting caught with too many guys up. I don't mind converting Shaff and JMR to fullback, but I feel like they need to be paired with a more defensive fullback, especially when learning the position. For example Morrow had Beitashour. Seeing us get caught with 2 guys back a few times because Shaff and JMR are so far up.

[Gringo Starr]

I think Shaff has the work ethic to get better at LB if he is given the time, I’ve never felt cheated by his effort. Nelson looks much better this year.

[MikeForbes]

All in all, not a bad half. Priso needs to be brought on for Bradley, Achara for Kerr early-ish in the second half.

[ag futbol]

https://twitter.com/Eric_Giacometti/status/1497717630853160968

No way this was clear and obvious. Respect the people on the field unless you actually have a reason to overturn it.
This official is ridiculous. He barely glanced at that they trotted off. It’s nowhere near clear enough to overturn

[Webdogg]

Lots of calls to sub off Kerr. Careful what you wish for - Please review the current bench.

[noxx98]

Lots of calls to sub off Kerr. Careful what you wish for - Please review the current bench.
As long as Perruzza is on the bench, I'll always be calling for a substitute

[Auzzy]

Caldwell, as usual is out of his mind blaming Mavinga and Salcedo for defensive shape.

They are being dragged all over the place by two inexperienced fullbacks and are shielded in front by Michael Bradley in a wheelchair

Yes the fullbacks are a problem. But Mavinga and Salcedo shouldn't both be in the offensive half when the fullbacks are also both far forward. And no midfielder is going back to cover in the middle when Mavinga or Salcedo stroll forward in attack. We're missing Delgado or a more defensively-minded midfielder. Bradley just drifting around.

[Soccerpro]

Lots of calls to sub off Kerr. Careful what you wish for - Please review the current bench.

Could sub Peruzza on to LB and move Shaff up to RW.

[OgtheDim]

https://twitter.com/Eric_Giacometti/status/1497717630853160968

No way this was clear and obvious. Respect the people on the field unless you actually have a reason to overturn it.


MLS has had a problem with this aspect of things for years. They do not use clear & obvious as a curb to when decisions are overturned.

That call was horrid.

[tfcfans]

Achara for Kerr - good !

[Webdogg]

Yes the fullbacks are a problem. But Mavinga and Salcedo shouldn't both be in the offensive half when the fullbacks are also both far forward. And no midfielder is going back to cover in the middle when Mavinga or Salcedo stroll forward in attack. We're missing Delgado or a more defensively-minded midfielder. Bradley just drifting around.

Bradley drifting is a compliment. He moves more like an iceberg.

[tfcfans]

Mavinga sub - interesting....or hurt....

[Soccerpro]

I like the subs, but Bradley should be off too.

[AdamAM]

They should have planned better. There is an extremely large player pool at this level worldwide. They suck at planning and getting deals done.

Nah. They’ve got the best academy prospects playing with league XI calibre players like Pozuelo and Salcedo, a very solid strategy to test out who is good enough to stay in the starting XI by the time the reinforcements arrive in July. Shaff was the breakout man for TFC last year, let him try to hold that spot down. No point in hastily loading the roster with journeymen just to say you did something.

[MikeForbes]

Mavinga hurt already...

[noxx98]

Did MLS keep 5 substitutes for this year or are we back to 3?

[MikeForbes]

Achara for Kerr is 100% the right move though.

[Amir.]

5 subs

[DinamoTFC]

Good sub. Caldwell called it right. Bradley won't accept mediocre from Mavinga. O'Neill gets his chance.

[Soccerpro]

Did MLS keep 5 substitutes for this year or are we back to 3?

5 subs

[MikeForbes]

Did MLS keep 5 substitutes for this year or are we back to 3?

Still 5, I believe. Great for developing young guys and keeping players happy with playing time.

[Soccerpro]

Everyone losing their footing out there. It looks miserable.

[MikeForbes]

Gotta think Criscito might be slotting right into Mavinga's spot at CB.

[Amir.]

Osorio loses two balls in seconds in his own third

[Soccerpro]

Shane O'Neil looks 10x better than Omar Gonzalez or any other CB we played last year. Astute signing.

[ag futbol]

I appreciate JMR is quite talented but we’re taking the butt-end of a lot of mistakes here…

[MikeForbes]

Salcedo is crafty. Big fan of him so far.

[Soccerpro]

I appreciate JMR is quite talented but we’re taking the butt-end of a lot of mistakes here…

He had a better first half than second half so far.

[Amir.]

What a beautiful ball by Bradley

[Auzzy]

Come on man, Achara has the wrong studs for this pitch.

EDIT and Jiminez.

[MikeForbes]

I appreciate JMR is quite talented but we’re taking the butt-end of a lot of mistakes here…

I am gonna start a narrative that he should be an 8. His skill set just screams midfielder to me.

[Inklink]

Couple of nice plays O'Neill

[ag futbol]

He had a better first half than second half so far.
Way too many unforced errors and mistakes. Talking 2-3 instances in the first half where he gave the ball away in bad spots. Similar start here…

[Auzzy]

What a beautiful ball by Bradley

I feel like BB told him to stop passing backward at halftime.

[Soccerpro]

JMR's man nearly set up a goal there...

[Soccerpro]

Bradley looking about as athletic as a 40 year old office worker when he jumped 3 inches for that header.

[MikeForbes]

Everyone just falling everywhere. Maybe FC Money Laundering Scheme should invest some of those transfer fees into improving their pitch.

[Soccerpro]

Nice set up by Nelson for Poz!

[MikeForbes]

Nice work by Nelson there.

[ag futbol]

Bravo to Nelson, looking good out there!

[MikeForbes]

Arriola is the best player on the field.

[ag futbol]

So we’re going to sub our best performer on the day now? Why??

[MikeForbes]

Okello for Nelson is not what I would do, but Bob Bradley probably knows better than me.

[James17930]

Too many backwards passes still. They need to work on knowing where each other are going to be on their breakouts.

[Bushmancan]

Playing for the draw.

[noxx98]

Clear penalty. Lets win this one.

[OgtheDim]

Jesus always knows where everybody is....

[Amir.]

wow beautiful 1-2 touch passing by bradley in tight spaces

[ag futbol]

Are you serious? This is bullshit

[MikeForbes]

Pozuelo is money.

[Bushmancan]

That is INSANE….. need to re-group fast or we will lose our composure. Re-looked at it, someone is being paid

[MikeForbes]

That is a pen. Come on.

[noxx98]

That's absolute bullshit. How do you make that call.

[OgtheDim]

Clear & Obvious is NOT being considered here & this is just awful

[RealG-TFC]

2 + 2 is 5 apparently

[MikeForbes]

I hate VAR so much. It is hard to get excited about anything that happens on the field because you gotta wait to see if VAR will take it away for some stupid fucking reason.

[ag futbol]

This crew should be investigated. They are literally changing the outcome based on horse shit VAR interpretations

[JoesphNdo]

VAR fucked up their first goal but that was a clear and obvious error. He 100% gets the ball, it's not a penalty

[Kamp Berg]

It’s going to be a long fucking season if every call near goal is overturned by VAR!!

[jloome]

Total bullshit call

[MikeForbes]

Keep your head, boys.

[Gringo Starr]

I would rather watch refs blow calls than var make things up as they go

[MikeForbes]

Bradley has been better this half, for sure.

[oranje boven]

Why not eliminate refs if VAR is going to make all the calls…

[James17930]

This crew should be investigated. They are literally changing the outcome based on horse shit VAR interpretations

Seriously. They need to be suspended and investigated. Absolute horseshit.

[mowe]

Ahh we should’ve scored there...

[Bushmancan]

Poz is working really hard…. Awesome to see. O’Neill looks like he is vocal out there as well.

[Soccerpro]

Poz is working really hard…. Awesome to see.

He was completely absent last year. Nice to see him giving his all this season so far.

[MikeForbes]

O'Neill has really improved that backline since he came on.

[Auzzy]

Okello has skills but has no idea where to be. He often runs way too close to the teammate with the ball. And then a couple of times he left Achara isolated on the wing and stopped, instead of overlapping and providing him with an option.

BB's voice is going to be gone completely by game 4.

[Yuushalinsky]

This team in general is just playing with so much more intent on the ball - trying to win them back and with the ideas on how they want to score. This is exciting soccer that I'm excited to support.

[Soccerpro]

Okello nearly dunked that Ally-oop from Shaff.

[OgtheDim]

Dallas beyond their speedy wingers are pretty toothless, especially in the middle.

[SirBobSaget]

Left side of defense is way more solid now that Salcedo slid over there. Relieved the pressure on Shaff.

That Soteldo for Salcedo swap was great business.

[jloome]

If Okello was
an inch taller…

[Soccerpro]

What a difference Bob Bradley has been vs our managers last year. Our players looked so clueless last year. When a player looks clueless this year? Bob subs them off. What a concept.

[ag futbol]

I feel like Okello has been given enough chances to continue to be turning in these half-baked / positionally ambiguous performances. Start having an identity or time to move on.

[MikeForbes]

I wonder how Priso looked in camp? I find it strange to see Okello on the field before him.

[MikeForbes]

I feel like Okello has been given enough chances to continue to be turning in these half-baked / positionally ambiguous performances. Start having an identity or time to move on.

I just don't see it in him. Obviously he has that natural athletic ability to dream on, but he has zero idea what kind of player he is.

[Auzzy]

I wonder how Priso looked in camp? I find it strange to see Okello on the field before him.

I'm guessing (hoping) that Priso isn't completely fit yet.

[SirBobSaget]

No yellow???? He was fouled and yanked back

[Bushmancan]

Ok… i am going to be the first to say it… the new white kits look pretty sharp.

[MikeForbes]

Ok… i am going to be the first to say it… the new white kits look pretty sharp.

Honestly, they could wear the blue recycling bags and I would approve aslong as they won in them.

[OgtheDim]

Going to be a bit of extra time here - at least 5

[Auzzy]

How the fuck is that not a yellow. Officiating is absolute garbage.