Match Day 26 - NER @ TFC Wednesday August 17 7:38pm - Tell Me Now Now Now

[OgtheDim]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbzM8PirtbQ



*******

Have at It People

[Richard]

There is a massive log jam of teams at the bottom of the east, only 5 points separate teams from 5-13 positions.

We have games against almost every relevant team ahead of us, it is in our hands, keep winning and we will make playoffs.

[Bushmancan]

Anyone know a good place to watch the game in Victoria?

[jloome]

There is a massive log jam of teams at the bottom of the east, only 5 points separate teams from 5-13 positions.

We have games against almost every relevant team ahead of us, it is in our hands, keep winning and we will make playoffs.

We have games against every relevant team ahead of us except Columbus. We have TWO against Miami.

Online bookies have us Even odds to beat revolution, somewhere around 13/5 (two-to-one-ish) for the Revs to win or a tie.

[Mr. Inbetween]

One more time!
Hoping...

https://formation-images-cdn.homecrowd.io/images/HCD/2022/8/15/i6RUMOYRPjjGDKia9H1i.png TORONTO FC, MLS (http://https://formation-images-cdn.homecrowd.io/images/HCD/2022/8/15/i6RUMOYRPjjGDKia9H1i.png TORONTO FC, MLS )

[leedsandTFC]

ne england havent conceded a goal in 4 games.

that being said, they aren't a great team, and if we play like we did on Saturday should be another multi goal win.

[Mr. Inbetween]

23JUL22 To 05NOV22...106 Days!
Another TFC MLS CUP QUEST has begun!
La Favola - Cento Giorni!
TFC... always... for...
Cento Ore, Cento Giorni,
Cento Minuti, Cento Anni,
Una Vita, Cento Vite...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbYj5X2myI0 (http://
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbYj5X2myI0)

[Richard]

ne england havent conceded a goal in 4 games.

that being said, they aren't a great team, and if we play like we did on Saturday should be another multi goal win.

We should play Henry as striker since we now have world class crossers of the ball.

Honestly JJ is to cold to trust at this point, and Ayo is not up to speed yet.

[Joe Kool]

We should play Henry as striker since we now have world class crossers of the ball.

Honestly JJ is to cold to trust at this point, and Ayo is not up to speed yet.

I think JJ is still trying to figure out his role within the new group of players up top. I am sure it is a bit of an adjustment to play with our new DPs compared to what we had prior. BB said they are working with him to do that. Even if he is not on the ball, he is doing some dummy runs to help open space so even if not on the scoresheet I think he is serving a function up top to some degree. Between our new DPs and Oso, Nelson/Kaye there are a lot of players around the 18 wanting the ball so he needs to figure out how to get into good positions to be most useful within the group. You can see he is a little frustrated at times probably with himself personally but the team is winning at least.

[ag futbol]

We should play Henry as striker since we now have world class crossers of the ball.

Honestly JJ is to cold to trust at this point, and Ayo is not up to speed yet.
To me, Ayo has about two years to prove he can be a goal scoring threat in this league or he’s going to be on a USL career track.

That previous run of form in the bubble is only going to take him so far.

[stevep]

We have games against every relevant team ahead of us except Columbus. We have TWO against Miami.

Online bookies have us Even odds to beat revolution, somewhere around 13/5 (two-to-one-ish) for the Revs to win or a tie.
Whoever is setting the odds for tfc over the last 4 games does not know wtf he is doing
he is so way off on his odds

[SenorDingDong]

We have games against every relevant team ahead of us except Columbus. We have TWO against Miami.

Online bookies have us Even odds to beat revolution, somewhere around 13/5 (two-to-one-ish) for the Revs to win or a tie.

We should have won the last time we played NE.

I feel like this time we will.

That said - I think Saturday in Miami is going to be loss or draw. That game just has struggle written all over it.

[Mr. Inbetween]

As with the previous match.
I would really enjoy seeing another one of these posted late Wednesday evening please.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FaFmTjJXEAAscjb?format=jpg&name=small

[Mr. Inbetween]

Regarding the above latest post victory team picture...
Without understanding if the locker room player cubicle layout for BMO Stadium is similar to that of Toronto FC Training Grounds?
Though I suspect match day intensity matters much more bonding wise.
Anyone notice the background?
Insigne placed between Mavinga and Osorio with Nelson next beside on the right.
Happenstance? Buona fortuna/luck? Or some Bob Bradley Old School Footballing IQ?
Them all being left-siders on the pitch?
Insigne's got the guy that could use as much confidence as he can get on his left.
While the guy that may need the most convincing to stay on his right.
And the kid that Bob feels has potential but needs some strong footballer guidance next to him.
Allowing all to bond with Insigne?
That placing would explain Insigne's mention of his relationship with Mavinga in a recent interview.

[jloome]

Regarding the above latest post victory team picture...
Without understanding if the locker room player cubicle layout for BMO Stadium is similar to that of Toronto FC Training Grounds?
Though I suspect match day intensity matters much more bonding wise.
Anyone notice the background?
Insigne placed between Mavinga and Osorio with Nelson next beside on the right.
Happenstance? Buona fortuna/luck? Or some Bob Bradley Old School Footballing IQ?
Them all being left-siders on the pitch?
Insigne's got the guy that could use as much confidence as he can get on his left.
While the guy that may need the most convincing to stay on his right.
And the kid that Bob feels has potential but needs some strong footballer guidance next to him.
Allowing all to bond with Insigne?
That placing would explain Insigne's mention of his relationship with Mavinga in a recent interview.

That's astute, Mr I. Almost certainly deliberate I'd think.

[jloome]

We should have won the last time we played NE.

I feel like this time we will.

That said - I think Saturday in Miami is going to be loss or draw. That game just has struggle written all over it.

I don't think Miami can keep up with our ball movement now. I'm not sure anyone outside of LAFC and NYRB have the midfield defensive ability required.

[los sonadores]

Regarding the above latest post victory team picture...
Without understanding if the locker room player cubicle layout for BMO Stadium is similar to that of Toronto FC Training Grounds?
Though I suspect match day intensity matters much more bonding wise.
Anyone notice the background?
Insigne placed between Mavinga and Osorio with Nelson next beside on the right.
Happenstance? Buona fortuna/luck? Or some Bob Bradley Old School Footballing IQ?
Them all being left-siders on the pitch?
Insigne's got the guy that could use as much confidence as he can get on his left.
While the guy that may need the most convincing to stay on his right.
And the kid that Bob feels has potential but needs some strong footballer guidance next to him.
Allowing all to bond with Insigne?
That placing would explain Insigne's mention of his relationship with Mavinga in a recent interview.

Good eye!

[Mr. Inbetween]

I don't think Miami can keep up with our ball movement now. I'm not sure anyone outside of LAFC and NYRB have the midfield defensive ability required.

I would agree about Miami, although the short record against may suggest otherwise 4G:3L/1W?
Yet, not against TFC's new and improved and now better self!
We should also understand how to 'contain' Pozuelo.

NYRB may be on a down cycle as TFC is on an upward one; gaining momentum at the right time as opposed to losing it.
Though, it seems they have beaten us about twice as much and dominated with wins on their pitch.

LAFC, well... IMHO one fooken word... JUGGERNAUT!
Is it the most complete and deep team currently in MLS?
When we meet them in the MLS Playoffs, hopefully its at the CUP Final.
I take some solace that BBradley may have laid about two-thirds to three-quarters of the groundwork that is that team.
Also comfort, in regards to opposition knowledge as well as what TFC's future may conceptually be.
LAFC's management continuity and new hires have done a fine job carrying on with the addition of key and solid acquisitions.
They have not screwed it up! Added lots of depth; lots!
Maybe Henry will be able to share some insights about some of the new players from earlier in the season.

[Mr. Inbetween]

Com'on Bono!
Keep On 'Keeping' On.
Doing fine.
None of this now!

https://twitter.com/PxckedIze/status/1559170484297687040 (https://twitter.com/PxckedIze/status/1559170484297687040)

[jloome]

New England will be without starting CB Henry Kessler, who is not vaccinated, likely also Gustavo Bou, Jacobo Vrioni and Dylan Borrero to injury.

[613reppingTFC]

No pre-game show tonight for TFC. Vancouver is going to have one after our game and before theirs though.
I know most were probably at the game on the weekend but did anyone else catch our pre-game show on Saturday. I felt like I was watching a Canada pre-game with DeGuzman and Kilbane trying to pick out their starting 11 choices for their first game in Qatar. I love Canada and so happy they qualified for WC don't get me wrong. But shouldn't they be doing a half hour special on this sort of thing and sort of leave the pre-game to talking about TFC for the most part, obviously we have internationals that will be going and will want to talk about it. But we are at a point where TFC just picked up some major stars and are picking up points and they are talking about this? Anyone else have thoughts on this, they really didn't talk much about TFC and it was mostly all just talking about going to Qatar in 100 days.

Also side note: i saw a few people mention the production during the game and I can't tell you how many times i've turned to the wife and said "i'm glad they are on a close up of someone while the play is still happening". Seems they don't know when to do a re-play or stop following a player for too long and we end up missing a corner kick or a build up in a play and it's pretty amateur.

[SenorDingDong]

New England will be without starting CB Henry Kessler, who is not vaccinated, likely also Gustavo Bou, Jacobo Vrioni and Dylan Borrero to injury.

The world really needs to drop that vaccinated rule. I really don't see how it accomplishes anything anymore.

[Super]

The world really needs to drop that vaccinated rule. I really don't see how it accomplishes anything anymore.

I think that's really just a Canadian thing now, no?

[noxx98]

I think that's really just a Canadian thing now, no?
It's still a rule in the US for non-Americans entering the country. TFC is all fully vaxed so it isn't an issue. A number of European countries still require double vax for non-citizens entering.

[noxx98]

It's still a rule in the US for non-Americans entering the country. TFC is all fully vaxed so it isn't an issue. A number of European countries still require double vax for non-citizens entering.
Here's an article from last month talking about some of the rules in place for Europe and the impact on pre-season for teams: https://theathletic.com/3436826/2022/07/21/football-covid-why-it-has-become-big-talking-point-again/

[Oldtimer]

Com'on Bono!
Keep On 'Keeping' On.
Doing fine.
None of this now!

https://twitter.com/PxckedIze/status/1559170484297687040 (https://twitter.com/PxckedIze/status/1559170484297687040)

You can't get a better illustration in how bad he is at organizing the defense (probably his weakest point, although distribution isn't that great as well). Offsetting that somewhat is above-average shot-stopping on regular game play shots.

[PawTar711]

We need to win. We need the points to get into the playoffs. With the help of our Italian internationals, we'll be able to say that we can trade a non playoff spot for a playoff spot. Go TFC!:scarf::flare::drum::flare::scarf::canada:

[ManUtd4ever]

Must win.

[portu]

Wondering what kind of rotation we might see tonight. I’m guessing we see O’Neil or Henry for Mavinga plus Akinola for Jimenez at the least.

[Super]

It's still a rule in the US for non-Americans entering the country. TFC is all fully vaxed so it isn't an issue. A number of European countries still require double vax for non-citizens entering.

Thankfully we don't have to face this problem with a fully vaccinated squad at least.

[stevep]

If JJ scores on that bicycle kick on Saturday that’s the goal if the year and there is no talk of substituting him
Zlatan goal of two years ago quality

[noxx98]

With the Kessler out for "health and safety protocols" and Farrell one yellow away from suspension we should be going right at their defence. Farrell will likely try to avoid getting a card and he'll either be alongside Jon Bell, who is inexperienced, or OG, who we all know is quite beatable.

[MikeForbes]

This game snuck up on me. I am ready for more Insigne magic.

[Ultra & Proud]

If JJ scores on that bicycle kick on Saturday that’s the goal if the year and there is no talk of substituting him
Zlatan goal of two years ago quality

His confidence is low but that goal plus the breakaway that was borderline offside were really unlucky. He still finished that offside goal off and the bicycle was on target. Until Ayo does something I will look to that that breakaway he had last match that was harder to miss than score and he managed to blunder it.

[Yuushalinsky]

excited for this one - let's go reds.

[MikeForbes]

Gotta hand it to New England. The Revolution is one of the coolest names in sports. Even calling them the Revs is cool for anyone who drank the alcoholic beverage of the same name as a teenager in the mid 00's.

[MikeForbes]

Ayo starts. Everything else remains the same.

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1560034453799550977?s=20&t=cUahUpW9LVy_iEtfyiS3Ig

[jloome]

Gotta hand it to New England. The Revolution is one of the coolest names in sports. Even calling them the Revs is cool for anyone who drank the alcoholic beverage of the same name as a teenager in the mid 00's.

Ayo gets the start. Makes sense. JJ looks gassed

[noxx98]

OG starts for NER as they go with a back 3. They're going to play for a 0-0 draw

[Super]

Does anyone know what channel will be showing the game? Thanks!

[Ultra & Proud]

OG starts for NER as they go with a back 3. They're going to play for a 0-0 draw

Whenever I see OG on a starting XI the last thing I think of is a clean sheet.

[jloome]

So they’re running CFL news right up ‘til 530 on TSN.

Really in touch with the fan base there, MLSE. (They do still OWN them, right?!)

[MikeForbes]

Just gotta mark Gil out of the game and victory should be assured. That is a really banged up roster. The only guy I can see starting for us besides Gil is Ferrell.

[jloome]

Whenever I see OG on a starting XI the last thing I think of is a clean sheet.

Arena planning to run a counterattack all day with that lineup, assuming it’s accurate.

[portu]

New England’s 5-2-3 looks like they’re ready to bunker.

Will be a good test of what’s to come for the frontline. I think that our lack of reliance on scoring in transition will really make it a non-factor.

[James17930]

Gotta hand it to New England. The Revolution is one of the coolest names in sports. Even calling them the Revs is cool for anyone who drank the alcoholic beverage of the same name as a teenager in the mid 00's.

Their new crest is pretty smart too.

Now if only they could get a real stadium ...

[Ultra & Proud]

Arena planning to run a counterattack all day with that lineup, assuming it’s accurate.

It's the smartest idea but our control up front has been a lot better since late July

[OgtheDim]

Hmm....Omar doesn't do a high line so this looks like bunker ball & hope for a point.

[Inklink]

Nice footwork by Nelson but probably should have given that to Insigne

[notthesun]

Osorio touching a guy's chest with his arm is a foul but Criscito getting barged through his back on the edge of the box isn't? Okay, thanks Fotis.

[Inklink]

Damn, Insigne didn't have eyes on that I think

[MikeForbes]

Definitely more skill on our side.

[Inklink]

Wow what a ball by Nelson

[OgtheDim]

Akinola didn't exactly move all that much on that break that ended up with the ball on his head

[portu]

Soooo Jayden Nelson, eh?

[jloome]

Gahd Bazakos is a bad ref.

[Inklink]

Ayo was falling I think lol

[jloome]

I never get excited anymore until the VAR check is done.

[portu]

Nelson is an 8

[Inklink]

BERNAAAAAAAA



I never get excited anymore until the VAR check is done.

Same for goals.

[tfcfans]

Bernie makes it look so easy....can he teach the others?!

[James17930]

Bernie makes it look so easy....can he teach the others?!

He'd better!

[notthesun]

Ayo was falling I think lol

If Makoun just continued shouldering him off the ball I think he would've been fine, but he dove without getting the ball and ended up dragging Akinola down with him. Still on the softer side of penalties but I see why it was called.

Nelson is having a game, and props to Akinola with a good run to win that penalty.

[Inklink]

bruh Osorio

[OgtheDim]

Soooo Jayden Nelson, eh?

Yeh...that is a couple of really good passes.

[OgtheDim]

Bernie makes it look so easy....can he teach the others?!

Can he teach Bono to stop pens?

or even crosses?

(Gosh I hate the whole "a terrific reaction" bromide - bono effed up more then NER pressed)

[Inklink]

Nice defending...

[portu]

MacNaughton is class

[Inklink]

Did McNaughton just make that pass lol

[portu]

MacNaughton is CLASS

[SenorDingDong]

MacNaughton is class

Plus hes a dreamboat!

[Inklink]

Sloppy Insigne.

[jloome]

Feel we're in control despite the goal but we'll have problems getting another goal if we can't move the ball quicker.

[OgtheDim]

We are so much better then them....but all it takes is one more Bono moment...

[Yuushalinsky]

that goal was greasy af ngl - we need to be good for at least a couple more

[los sonadores]

We are so much better then them....but all it takes is one more Bono moment...

And Petrovic is really good. It will probably have to be something special if we get the goal back.

[portu]

If they can maintain their energy, the goal will come.

Insigne needs to clean up the short passes and touches.

Akinola is a marked improvement.

[Yuushalinsky]

If they can maintain their energy, the goal will come.

Insigne needs to clean up the short passes and touches.

Akinola is a marked improvement.

JJ has been gassed for a while - let's hope Akinola can boot a couple in against a team not named Montreal.

[los sonadores]

Soooo Jayden Nelson, eh?

He’s looking good but we were quicker and crisper when Oso moved over to that side.

[portu]

Pathetic defending. Sleeping.

[jloome]

Jesus Christ

bono

[OgtheDim]

Can we finally end the "Bono is good" discussion?

[Inklink]

Donkey defending and keeping

[los sonadores]

We really need a better keeper. No question about it.

[Oldtimer]

We are so much better then them....but all it takes is one more Bono moment...

What terrible positioning.

[notthesun]

Bono cannot allow that goal man. That's basically our season right there, you have to stop that.

[benito]

Poor defending and poor goalkeeping.

[Inklink]

So that retaliation is OK?

[OgtheDim]

Bono might be having one of his depth perception moments - I noticed an easily catchable cross in the first half that he let sail basically through the space where he would have caught it.


We can come back from this but those 2 goals were inexcusable.

[NK Toronto]

We are not being outplayed. New England has a keeper and we don't.

[notthesun]

Richie man... play the fucking ball and we probably score

[Inklink]

Richie flop, could have probably had a nice shot on goal instead.

[James17930]

Richie flop, could have probably had a nice shot on goal instead.

I don't think he flopped. I think he did get tripped up enough to send him down. But not enough for a penalty.

[tfcfans]

The next 30 minutes might effectively end the season if we don’t put a few more balls in their net....time for the highest paid player in the league to rescue this game....

[OgtheDim]

Crisp passing?

More like marshmallow

[portu]

Insigne the worst player for TFC tonight not named Bono?

[Bushmancan]

We have 70% possession wtf happened?

[stevep]

Is it possible for insigne to play any worse?

[NK Toronto]

If Bono had been the keeper on that shot by Insigne it would have gone between his legs

[James17930]

Insigne the worst player for TFC tonight not named Bono?

He must be exhausted. Obviously not 100%

[James17930]

If Bono had been the keeper on that shot by Insigne it would have gone between his legs

Is Q hurt? Or is this BB's choice?

[Inklink]

These corners are very ineffective so far.

[James17930]

Love that recovery run by Criscito.

[OgtheDim]

Is Q hurt? Or is this BB's choice?

Q has been out for 6 games now - "lower body injury"

[Inklink]

Crissyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

[benito]

What a volley!!!!

[Bushmancan]

Ok, it must be because i finally found a Pub.

[tfcfans]

Wow !!!

(Lareya again makes things happen - man do we need to get him back full time for this team next season!)

[Bushmancan]

We need one more.

[Inklink]

MLSsoccer.com probably be like "not a GOTW candidate"

[OgtheDim]

The 4th DP comes through...

[James17930]

But I love the goal even more!

[Inklink]

The late offside flag kills me

[Amir.]

and ppl wanted criscito to play cb...thats why he plays lb...and guess who gets the assist...thats right

[Bushmancan]

Richie just gives 1000%

[OgtheDim]

Oh look.....unless there is VAR, this ref ALWAYS goes with 3 minutes extra time.

[Yuushalinsky]

at the very least we're proving that we can do what needs to be done - bono giving that up was pain and was basically 2 points yeeted into the garbage

[Inklink]

Nothing from JJ

[portu]

That’s a win if we have a keeper

[notthesun]

We basically have to win out on the season now. Can't believe how awful Bono is.

[jloome]

at the very least we're proving that we can do what needs to be done - bono giving that up was pain and was basically 2 points yeeted into the garbage

Can't do that more than once or twice.

[benito]

Wasted points tonight

[SoccMan2]

Season is over bye bye !

[NK Toronto]

The number one priority in the off season has to be a new keeper.

[jloome]

Season is over bye bye !

Oh, give it rest. We don't need to win out to do it.

[leafsman]

Caldwell says a draw is fair result. Tfc dominated look at the stats idiot, should've won

[OgtheDim]

Need 2 better CB's & a new keeper

&

A few weeks off for Insigne.

[James17930]

At least it wasn't a loss. Playoffs are still possible.

[SoccMan2]

Insigne needs to step up hopefully next year because there is just a bunch of exhibition games left now .

[portu]

Oh, give it rest. We don't need to win out to do it.
We can’t afford to drop many points that’s for sure

[NK Toronto]

Caldwell says a draw is fair result. Tfc dominated look at the stats idiot, should've won

We did well considering we played the entire game with 10 men.

[tfcfans]

This is feeling like the Jays of last year — they will get close to the playoffs and in the end they will just miss it — we will lament in the off-season that “just a few more games and we could have made it” —- and like the Jays of 2021, this TFC team would have been the team no one wanted to play in the playoffs....

[Bushmancan]

We need NYCFC to score another goal. One less team to climb. Miami win is a must.

[OgtheDim]

This is feeling like the Jays of last year — they will get close to the playoffs and in the end they will just miss it — we will lament not having just a few more games and “we could have made it” —- and like the Jays of 2022, this TFC team would have been the team no one wanted to play in the playoffs....

TFC in the playoffs was always a long shot - you don't turn a roster around this much & expect to be in the top 7.

This season was always about 2023.

[tfcfans]

TFC in the playoffs was always a long shot - you don't turn a roster around this much & expect to be in the top 7.

This season was always about 2023.

I know that intellectually, but emotionally it will still hurt if we miss the playoffs by 3 or less points in the end....will we still have Richie and Oso by the time we get to August 2023?

[los sonadores]

Frustrating to have such a good eleven and such a lousy keeper. He makes the occasional good or better save but not dependably and the rest of his game is poor. He’s been a wanker for some time now. Maybe it’s confidence, maybe lack of enough of the required skills.

[stevep]

Nothing from JJ
missed a sitter

[PawTar711]

If based on everything, Toronto FC played well against a side that is marginally in a better place, to prove that recent wins and a mixture of winning and losing in the beginning, ccan prove that although there are alot of tries, they have to be able to say that they can make the playoffs because its only 3 points away. When the game is not a loss, and a season is long, you can prove that because alot of positive movement and maybe a bit more training might help at downsview, you can argue that Toronto FC is now sort of known:scarf::scarf:

[DavemTFC]

Not a good result but Holy shit I can't stop replaying the Criscito goal

[stevep]

Insigne needs to step up hopefully next year because there is just a bunch of exhibition games left now .
He was Absolutely terrible, horrible tonight
i kept expecting him to do better with each passing minute
bit he never got better
total shit night. From him

[ag futbol]

I know everyone’s expectations are set at win every game and make playoffs but we have to be realistic here.

Bono still plays net. Our strikers are still toothless on a bad day. We haven’t worked out all the kinks.

Let’s celebrate a great goal and try to look to the positives.

[stevep]

TFC in the playoffs was always a long shot - you don't turn a roster around this much & expect to be in the top 7.

This season was always about 2023.
Yes you do. I hate this bullshit apologetics crap
ner is garbage

[Ultra & Proud]

They had our number tonight and that number was 25.

Everyone been arguing over JJ/Ayo, the Bradleys, our CBs but all the while the true ruiner was waiting in the back for just the right time to do his thing.

It's Ranjitsingh time.

[MikeForbes]

So disappointing. What a goal from Mimmo though. A new keeper and a number 9 DP cometh in January, I believe.

[ManUtd4ever]

I thought we played well enough to earn 3 points. Bono has to be better.

[Smokecell]

Insigne has looked bad. There, I said it.

[Canary10]

Not a good result but Holy shit I can't stop replaying the Criscito goal

That was an insane goal. Very hard ball to volley across your body like that. He’s been quietly very good for us.

[NK Toronto]

Stats show TFC had 67% possession, 19 shots vs. 6, 7 shots on target vs. 4. Bono saved the 1st two shots on the 1st goal with the 3rd one going in. NER had 1 shot on target in the 2nd half and it went in. TFC had 17 corners vs nil for NER. We seemed not as energetic tonight and the passing was off. However we deserved to win. This was a "start the car" match but this time for NER.

[Oldtimer]

I enjoyed the game. It's fun seeing the team overall play much better, and see nice flowing football. I'm not going to sweat the season and be upset if we don't have playoffs. Next season will be different, of course.

[los sonadores]

I enjoyed the game. It's fun seeing the team overall play much better, and see nice flowing football. I'm not going to sweat the season and be upset if we don't have playoffs. Next season will be different, of course.

It’s night and day being at the stadium these days compared to earlier in the season. A pleasure even if this result was a disappointment. Their line up was thin and they deserved no goals, really, but I agree with BB in the post game press conference: we’re close to being a good team, a good team wins that match.

[James17930]

I'm really starting to come around to the idea that we would do well to get a DP GK - someone around 25 - 27 who we can keep long-term, that we know is going to be drama free for 5 - 7 years.

Like, maybe this is wishful thinking, but imagine we could lure Zach Steffan back. Or maybe make a big move for Dayne St. Clair (I thought we really should've tried to get him this past off-season).

Is this total pie-in-the-sky?

[los sonadores]

I'm really starting to come around to the idea that we would do well to get a DP GK - someone around 25 - 27 who we can keep long-term, that we know is going to be drama free for 5 - 7 years.

Like, maybe this is wishful thinking, but imagine we could lure Zach Steffan back. Or maybe make a big move for Dayne St. Clair (I thought we really should've tried to get him this past off-season).

Is this total pie-in-the-sky?

Probably. I’m still mystified as to why we didn’t choose St. Clair in the draft. Except that we favoured heavily the upstanding All-American type (not unlike Vanney himself)… that would, of course, rule out Canadians.

[Gringo Starr]

I enjoyed the game. It's fun seeing the team overall play much better, and see nice flowing football. I'm not going to sweat the season and be upset if we don't have playoffs. Next season will be different, of course.
I wish I had this attitude, I might have been the most miserable guy in the stadium last night, even after Chricito’s goal all I could think was who cares we still need one more. Then spent the car ride home cursing Bono to no end

[Gringo Starr]

At least it wasn't a loss. Playoffs are still possible.
Yeah still possible, big missed opportunity though since the Revs have a game in hand.

[ensco]

Fundamentally, yeah, defending and Bono… we can’t win every game 3-2 or 4-3.

This is a tougher league than it used to be. New England is an average time but gave us fits. They conceded possession strategically which made us feel more “dominant” than we were. They were well organized, marked well, played the counter, didn’t give us much time or space in the final third, and exposed our lack of time together.

Also why did Gonzalez have to pick last night to make his best play ever at BMO?

Also Insigne was, it has to be said, very noticeable in his … passing. Not in good ways.

[nick.mastro]

from being almost dead last and in one summer transfer window were unbeaten in 5

For January:
New striker DP
CBs coming in
GK

2023 we are going to kick ass

[CorrwgBach]

Fundamentally, yeah, defending and Bono… we can’t win every game 3-2 or 4-3.

This is a tougher league than it used to be. New England is an average time but gave us fits. They conceded possession strategically which made us feel more “dominant” than we were. They were well organized, marked well, played the counter, didn’t give us much time or space in the final third, and exposed our lack of time together.

Also why did Gonzalez have to pick last night to make his best play ever at BMO?

Also Insigne was, it has to be said, very noticeable in his … passing. Not in good ways.

I was writing a post but this said it better. One thing that gives me hope is that apart from the philly and montreal games all other teams we play will be trying desperately to win. Lot of 5-4's for us! :scarf:

[stevep]

I wish I had this attitude, I might have been the most miserable guy in the stadium last night, even after Chricito’s goal all I could think was who cares we still need one more. Then spent the car ride home cursing Bono to no end
In the tunnel people were saying it was Bono’s fault the loss
a lot of Bono bashing
Expected goal chart the first goal had a 4% probability of scoring from that position
And the second goal the scoring probability was 2% from the area he took the shot
8/1000 probability if you take two shots from those spots you will score two goals
stop with nonsense drivel here call a spade a spade it was all Bono’s fault and to a lesser degree ok mafnifico
if we can still call him that after last night
upon sober reflection this morning I am dumbfounded as to how Insigne could play so poorly
there was one play in particular that is etched in my mind
he intercepted a ball in NER half Bernie made a run easy quick pass to Bernie would have resulted in a great scoring chance. He did not make the pass he held onto it dribbled and took a shot right at the keeper from distance

[DavemTFC]

In retrospect I think this really was a must win considering its a 3 game week, it was at home, we played our best 11 again, and our third game is in Florida in August. Even getting a point in Miami will be tough, especially with Poz probably wanting revenge, and 5 points is below the very high standard we need to make the playoffs. Lolo and Oso especially looked gassed and as a pretty direct consequence we didn't have enough incisive movement in the box or good final passes. And there's nothing to add about Bono. On the bright side I thought this was Nelson's best game yet. His improvement the last few games has been remarkable

It was always a long shot to make the post season this year so as long as we look good (which we do) we'll be in good shape for next year

[Ultra & Proud]

call a spade a spade it was all Bono’s fault
You're right, this one is on Bono 100%. Every team we play I watch the opposing GK and we haven't faced any that I wouldn't swap Bono for. If he isn't the worst starting GK in MLS now then he is for sure pretty close.

[Ultra & Proud]

The up until this point positives:

For sure Bradley & Manning know we need a new GK and Bono is done.
Nelson finally showing progress.
MacNaughton looks like a solid MLS CB.
The Italians are doing good but not 'tearing the league apart' so that is a better look if we aim for more of them this winter.

[SenorDingDong]

Yea not sure why everyone is mad.

Since the DP's started we are undefeated. Team is exciting to watch and if we have this same team from the start of the season we are easily in a playoff spot. TFC in June going down a goal would have caved. This team shows fight.

Nelson and MacNaughton growing every game.

Insigne was off last night but folks need to remember - the guy hasn't had a full off season in 2 years now, with the Euro Cup last summer and jumping from a full SerieA campaign to MLS this one. Same with Berna. There are going to be games where they both look totally gassed.

I am actually hoping they both stay uninjured. That amount of load with so little rest is risky.

[613reppingTFC]

Here are the highlights from last night:
https://youtu.be/ahemp-ApKb8
I'm not going to try and defend Bono, but on that first goal (around 3 min mark) I know he probably should have scooped and grabbed the first chance but he didn't and it spilled for 2 more shots. Would any of this not have fallen on Mavinga just standing there watching as McNamara keeps getting chances? Mimo noticed it got spilled and ran to the goal line to try and block any other shots towards the net but was unsuccessful while Mavinga just stood and watched McNamara keep hitting the ball. I get he probably was expecting Bono to pick it up or smother it but anyways..

On the second goal I kept watching the replay last night, now I'm not a keeper and don't have any formal training and such so maybe someone who has had some training in the area could comment. But when you are trying to set yourself as a keeper and someone is coming in on you, i get being on your toes..but Bono is just jumping up and down constantly. Is this something they train you to do? If the ball gets hit while you are in the air (which it did), it's impossible to then land and plant yourself in order to move quickly enough to do anything when they are shooting from that close. You can see he jumps as he is hitting it and the ball is pretty much passing him as he tries to land and move again.

It was probably the first match I didn't actually hate watching Nelson play. He is getting much better playing in that role and he had two sublime passes, the one to Ayo and a nice long ball for Berna to run onto.

I know it's been said but I'll repeat it because I had to stop counting after 7 or so miss placed passes by Insigne, he just played so poorly.

[DinamoTFC]

There's no way Bono can be this bad (he actually had a decent run of games leading up to this). In fact there's no way all our GKs can be this bad. The only constant remains - goalkeeping coach Jon Conway. Get rid of him already.

[SenorDingDong]

Here are the highlights from last night:
https://youtu.be/ahemp-ApKb8
I'm not going to try and defend Bono, but on that first goal (around 3 min mark) I know he probably should have scooped and grabbed the first chance but he didn't and it spilled for 2 more shots. Would any of this not have fallen on Mavinga just standing there watching as McNamara keeps getting chances? Mimo noticed it got spilled and ran to the goal line to try and block any other shots towards the net but was unsuccessful while Mavinga just stood and watched McNamara keep hitting the ball. I get he probably was expecting Bono to pick it up or smother it but anyways..

On the second goal I kept watching the replay last night, now I'm not a keeper and don't have any formal training and such so maybe someone who has had some training in the area could comment. But when you are trying to set yourself as a keeper and someone is coming in on you, i get being on your toes..but Bono is just jumping up and down constantly. Is this something they train you to do? If the ball gets hit while you are in the air (which it did), it's impossible to then land and plant yourself in order to move quickly enough to do anything when they are shooting from that close. You can see he jumps as he is hitting it and the ball is pretty much passing him as he tries to land and move again.

It was probably the first match I didn't actually hate watching Nelson play. He is getting much better playing in that role and he had two sublime passes, the one to Ayo and a nice long ball for Berna to run onto.

I know it's been said but I'll repeat it because I had to stop counting after 7 or so miss placed passes by Insigne, he just played so poorly.

Bono absolutely should have stopped the second. Petrovic saves that all day.

[Mr. Inbetween]

Mi chiamano Mimmo!
They call me Mimmo!

Unsung hero...
His name is Mimmo, he's Napoletano...
Played for Genoa, was their Capitano...
:)

A fine - class addition to TFC.
Fine command of the English language as well.

Another assist by that Michael guy ehh?
'...gave a good ball to me'

[leedsandTFC]

we're still a work in progress, as last night showed.

completely dominant yet gave away 2 goals and couldnt finish or break down their 10 man defence often enough.

we need 2 new starting CBs, a GK, and a DP striker next year.

plus midfield depth. i think it'll happen though.

mavinga + bono + westberg make about 2 mill combined, that's a ton in this league, all out of contract this offseason. mavinga has been alright recently but for 1 mill + your defender should be at the top of MLS and he...isn't.

[ag futbol]

As is the case write most MLS goals it’s rarely one thing or person.

On goal number one Laryea does an awful job of closing out. Bono spills the ball. CB’s slow to clear.

Goal #2 Nelson lets his man walk inside too easily. Arguably Osorio should have got closer to the passer but overall that setup should be fine as the whole defence is positioned to push NE wide. Laryea’s positioning along the backline is out of whack and he’s keeping guys onside. Macnaughton slightly slow to read the play and recover. And of course Bono blows it letting in a goal from a bad angle.

Bono the most obvious downfall but quite a few others not covering themselves in glory.

[SenorDingDong]

we're still a work in progress, as last night showed.

completely dominant yet gave away 2 goals and couldnt finish or break down their 10 man defence often enough.

we need 2 new starting CBs, a GK, and a DP striker next year.

plus midfield depth. i think it'll happen though.

mavinga + bono + westberg make about 2 mill combined, that's a ton in this league, all out of contract this offseason. mavinga has been alright recently but for 1 mill + your defender should be at the top of MLS and he...isn't.


BB and Manning are definitely all over our weak spots right now, sure they are collecting possible names.

That said man - this team is exciting. If we had a DP striker we bury more goals in.

[Ultra & Proud]

There's no way Bono can be this bad (he actually had a decent run of games leading up to this). In fact there's no way all our GKs can be this bad. The only constant remains - goalkeeping coach Jon Conway. Get rid of him already.
I've been saying this for 5+ years already.

Every keeper under his watch has regressed year to year.

[nick.mastro]

Since our strikers are doing nothing, is it crazy to play Akinola/Jiminez on the right wing and try Bernadeschi in the middle

[Ultra & Proud]

Since our strikers are doing nothing, is it crazy to play Akinola/Jiminez on the right wing and try Bernadeschi in the middle

Going by the form of JJ & Ayo why not toss Peruzza out there for a bit.

[NK Toronto]

I can't stop thinking what would our offense be like if we had only held on to Poz for at least the rest of this season and played him as a false nine between LI and Berna.

[leedsandTFC]

I can't stop thinking what would our offense be like if we had only held on to Poz for at least the rest of this season and played him as a false nine between LI and Berna.

it'd be bad, we're lacking movement in behind, he'd just clog up the same spaces insigne and berna play in.

[PizzaEatingYeti]

I'm really starting to come around to the idea that we would do well to get a DP GK - someone around 25 - 27 who we can keep long-term, that we know is going to be drama free for 5 - 7 years.

Like, maybe this is wishful thinking, but imagine we could lure Zach Steffan back. Or maybe make a big move for Dayne St. Clair (I thought we really should've tried to get him this past off-season).

Is this total pie-in-the-sky?

I think is a pie-in-the-sky, and anyways, we do not need to sacrifice a DP spot for a keeper, but just an "international" spot.

There are a truckload of a lot better, experienced keepers than Bono, not older than 27, credited with values between 500,000-800,000 Euros at Transfermarkt from first divisions of countries like Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, Poland, Switzerland, Austria, maybe France 2 and Italy 2, etc.
I think these should be our selection target areas for a good, dependable keeper, who we can go with for 5-6 seasons.

And, very importantly, latest in the winter off-season we need to replace our current goalkeeper coach, who seems is with TFC forever, and is doing a lousy job.
It seems that the best he could do is a goalkeeper not regressing, but most our keepers regressed at TFC under his coaching.

[Yuushalinsky]

I think is a pie-in-the-sky, and anyways, we do not need to sacrifice a DP spot for a keeper, but just an "international" spot.

There are a truckload of a lot better, experienced keepers than Bono, not older than 27, credited with values between 500,000-800,000 Euros at Transfermarkt from first divisions of countries like Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Belgium, Poland, Switzerland, Austria, maybe France 2 and Italy 2, etc.
I think these should be our selection target areas for a good, dependable keeper, who we can go with for 5-6 seasons.

And, very importantly, latest in the winter off-season we need to replace our current goalkeeper coach, who seems is with TFC forever, and is doing a lousy job.
It seems that the best he could do is a goalkeeper not regressing, but most our keepers regressed at TFC under his coaching.

Much of the coaching is the through-line that has existed throughout the latter Vanney - Armas/Perez - Bradley line right now. I think that there's finally a new strength+conditioning coach in Steven Haines but the fact that Conway is still here and not identified as one of the people holding onto past glory is odd.

[Initial B]

There's no way Bono can be this bad (he actually had a decent run of games leading up to this). In fact there's no way all our GKs can be this bad. The only constant remains - goalkeeping coach Jon Conway. Get rid of him already.
Not going to happen - he's married to Andi Petrillo. It's one case where the Bogers/MLSE dynamic is not favourable to TFC.

[Kamp Berg]

Not going to happen - he's married to Andi Petrillo. It's one case where the Bogers/MLSE dynamic is not favourable to TFC.

Nepotism at its worst. It’s okay to hire friends and family when they do a good job, but he’s clearly not. Maybe with Apple taking over next year this cycle can be broken? I guess it all depends on whether Andi is able to stay employed in some capacity. There is no doubt that keeper has been the weakest position on the team since Frei left.

The defence needs an overhaul this off-season, but at least games are exciting again! Also, Nelson playing much better is giving me hope that maybe more of the kids can improve in the new setup.

[MikeForbes]

This goal though.

https://twitter.com/TorontoFC/status/1560292108468109313?s=20&t=WtkhT5kywE_EuqP5QZ02ww

[ronzilla]

Terrible blunder from Bono, although let's not forget he also came up big during the game. He's also been decent enough this past month and saved our skin on several occasions. It would be foolish to make decisions based on one single play.

The biggest prblem is our strikers, especially JJ, who's done nothing for far too long. Starting Akinola was a slight improvement. For the next DP spot, I'm on the fence between a striker or CB, leaning more towards a CB.

[DinamoTFC]

I've been saying this for 5+ years already.

Every keeper under his watch has regressed year to year.
Right! It's shocking how no one else has noticed this pattern from management.

[DinamoTFC]

I can't stop thinking what would our offense be like if we had only held on to Poz for at least the rest of this season and played him as a false nine between LI and Berna.

Very good. Worst mistake of the entire season. Doesn't even need to be false 9 but would probably be best here. Could also play Nelson's position since Kaye has missed so many games.

Oh Poz where art thou...

[NK Toronto]

Not going to happen - he's married to Andi Petrillo. It's one case where the Bogers/MLSE dynamic is not favourable to TFC.

Andi works for One Soccer which has nothing to do with MLSE, Bell or Roger's. In fact One Soccer is complaining to the CRTC that Roger's refuses to carry their station.

[stevep]

Very good. Worst mistake of the entire season. Doesn't even need to be false 9 but would probably be best here. Could also play Nelson's position since Kaye has missed so many games.

Oh Poz where art thou...
You have to understand something
the league does not want that scenerio you have just said
tfc would be unbeatable. The league does not want that it wants parity so fans come out to see they’re team and spend money
miami is a better team now
tjats what the league wants
Dont forget the league owns tfc

[Ultra & Proud]

You have to understand something
the league does not want that scenerio you have just said
tfc would be unbeatable. The league does not want that it wants parity so fans come out to see they’re team and spend money
miami is a better team now
tjats what the league wants
Dont forget the league owns tfc

League doesn't own TFC. League owns the contracts of the players on TFC but only so it can continue to function as a single entity league to keep costs down for cheapos.

League can't control who teams sign or move and as much as they say they want parity, they'd love a solid dynasty to market the hell out of. Obviously they would prefer that team to be LAFC, LAG, or Miami (maybe Vegas if they come in) but in the meantime they sure like using our Italian players for their marketing blitzes.

[Oldtimer]

I can't stop thinking what would our offense be like if we had only held on to Poz for at least the rest of this season and played him as a false nine between LI and Berna.


Very good. Worst mistake of the entire season. Doesn't even need to be false 9 but would probably be best here. Could also play Nelson's position since Kaye has missed so many games.

Oh Poz where art thou...

No it wasn't. TFC needed the $150K GAM to move up from 22nd to 1st in the allocation list to get MAK in the end. Would you keep Pozuelo and lose MAK? Especially since Pozuelo was always going to leave for a free at the end of the year and making the playoffs would still be unlikely?


You have to understand something
the league does not want that scenerio you have just said
tfc would be unbeatable. The league does not want that it wants parity so fans come out to see they’re team and spend money
miami is a better team now
tjats what the league wants
Dont forget the league owns tfc

I thought the standard theory (at least on Big Soccer) is that LAG/LAFC and NYCFC/NYRB get dodgy exemptions all the time from parity because MLS doesn't really want parity but wants Big Media Market Teams to win? :D

In reality trading Poz for GAM was a very sensible bit of work that would still have occurred in any other league, just structured as a sale. I doubt Don Garber phoned up Bob Bradley and said that TFC needed to trade away Pozuelo. That's not how MLS works.

[Oldtimer]

League doesn't own TFC. League owns the contracts of the players on TFC but only so it can continue to function as a single entity league to keep costs down for cheapos.



It's complicated. The league legally holds 51% of the shares of each subsidiary (TFC being legally a subsidiary division of MLS LLC), the Owner/Operator owns 49%. This has no practical effect in everyday operations, for TFC the Owner/Operator MLSE runs the team as their own subsidiary. This setup is there so that a rogue Owner/Operator can be forced out. If anyone wonders if that possibility is needed, take a quick look at the history of why the NHL replaced the National Hockey Association. MLS had some of the best lawyers set up their single-entity thing and it shows.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Hockey_Association

That doesn't mean that MLS F.O. dictates anything to clubs in their day-to-day operations. In fact no way would the Owners of the league stand for it today. Instead the Competition Committee creates standard rules that everyone must follow. Unfortunately, the majority of that committee happens to be the most cheapskate owner/operators in MLS.

[Bushmancan]

Speaking of MAK, anyone know what his status is. Would be great to have another set of legs for Miami.

[jloome]

New England had 39 clearances in a single game. Typical trap game, where the bunkered team gets a couple of lucky breaks and steals a point.

Also, we completed a somewhat mind-boggling 599 passes at at 86% clip.

[Yohan]

Never count out a Bruce Arena couched team. Somehow, Old Brucie gets results

[los sonadores]

Mi chiamano Mimmo!
They call me Mimmo!

Unsung hero...
His name is Mimmo, he's Napoletano...
Played for Genoa, was their Capitano...
:)

A fine - class addition to TFC.
Fine command of the English language as well.

Another assist by that Michael guy ehh?
'...gave a good ball to me'

He’s been my favourite Italian so far.

[portu]

This was a draw, but for evaluative purposes this was really a win.

We were excellent; New England’s bunker and shitty football didn’t matter; a keeper who will no longer be at the club next year cost us the game.

Last night the missing pieces (besides a keeper) were subs. Guys were clearly huffing and puffing through the last 15 minutes and there is no one anyone near quality to bring on. We complain about the strikers, but scoring goals really isn’t an issue right now. Rotation is. Last night made me think the long-term solution is young money signings instead of a 3rd DP.

[los sonadores]

Fundamentally, yeah, defending and Bono… we can’t win every game 3-2 or 4-3.

This is a tougher league than it used to be. New England is an average time but gave us fits. They conceded possession strategically which made us feel more “dominant” than we were. They were well organized, marked well, played the counter, didn’t give us much time or space in the final third, and exposed our lack of time together.

Also why did Gonzalez have to pick last night to make his best play ever at BMO?

Also Insigne was, it has to be said, very noticeable in his … passing. Not in good ways.

Omar, man, he saved a clear goal. And NE may be middling but they’ve lost only twice (NYFC and Philly) since April….

[Ultra & Proud]

Last night made me think the long-term solution is young money signings instead of a 3rd DP.

Probably a better move but would depend on how they change the MLS mechanisms with all this new money.

[Mr. Inbetween]

Andi works for One Soccer which has nothing to do with MLSE, Bell or Roger's. In fact One Soccer is complaining to the CRTC that Roger's refuses to carry their station.

Split of a hair.
IIRC, she was still a part of the Bell/TSN organization within this past year when she 'moved on'?
There may have been a verbal agreement or even a negotiated (package) clause in her deal/s with them, or MLSE previously, relating to his 'continued' employment.
Without understanding Conway's terms of employment- contract length, he may now be deemed as non-renewable or expired.

[ag futbol]

Terrible blunder from Bono, although let's not forget he also came up big during the game. He's also been decent enough this past month and saved our skin on several occasions. It would be foolish to make decisions based on one single play.

The biggest prblem is our strikers, especially JJ, who's done nothing for far too long. Starting Akinola was a slight improvement. For the next DP spot, I'm on the fence between a striker or CB, leaning more towards a CB.
My thought would be people occasionally strike gold with a CB on TAM money and plenty of TAM CB’s are solid. For a striker on TAM you can get someone who sometimes reliably bangs in goals based on great service but rarely would you find an outright star. For that reason I’d use the DP spot on the striker

[los sonadores]

This was a draw, but for evaluative purposes this was really a win.

We were excellent; New England’s bunker and shitty football didn’t matter; a keeper who will no longer be at the club next year cost us the game.

Last night the missing pieces (besides a keeper) were subs. Guys were clearly huffing and puffing through the last 15 minutes and there is no one anyone near quality to bring on. We complain about the strikers, but scoring goals really isn’t an issue right now. Rotation is. Last night made me think the long-term solution is young money signings instead of a 3rd DP.

The young DP way doesn’t sound like our/Manning’s way. I think there’s still a desire to make the academy come good rather than sign kids from outside, as well as no need to make money on transfer fees, and on the other hand, the wealth of the media ownership screams splashy signings.

More than whether we sign a DP striker or defender, I’m curious to know what depth we sign. Bradley is really going to have to do well there if we’re going to be really good over a season. And as much as I’d hate to see it, best might be to not make the playoffs and give everyone a rest, BB time to wear his Sporting Director hat and come back strong.

[los sonadores]

My thought would be people occasionally strike gold with a CB on TAM money and plenty of TAM CB’s are solid. For a striker on TAM you can get someone who sometimes reliably bangs in goals based on great service but rarely would you find an outright star. For that reason I’d use the DP spot on the striker

Yeah, I agree. There is no need to sign a DP centre-half in this league. Unless you’re maneuvering to be rid of a certain mistake of a DP winger, that is.

[Section 223]

There's no way Bono can be this bad (he actually had a decent run of games leading up to this). In fact there's no way all our GKs can be this bad. The only constant remains - goalkeeping coach Jon Conway. Get rid of him already.
Nothing wrong with Conway, an under 16 keeper makes those saves, Bono is on his farewell tour from here on , most probably out of soccer next year

[Section 223]

Nepotism at its worst. It’s okay to hire friends and family when they do a good job, but he’s clearly not. Maybe with Apple taking over next year this cycle can be broken? I guess it all depends on whether Andi is able to stay employed in some capacity. There is no doubt that keeper has been the weakest position on the team since Frei left.

The defence needs an overhaul this off-season, but at least games are exciting again! Also, Nelson playing much better is giving me hope that maybe more of the kids can improve in the new setup.
Not doing a good job and Nepotism like when TFC hired Bob after he ran LAFC down the toilet last year?

[Ultra & Proud]

Not doing a good job and Nepotism like when TFC hired Bob after he ran LAFC down the toilet last year?
You mean ran them down because Thorrington blew all the new club allocation money in years one & two so they had to move on a lot of their better players to be cap compliant?

[Section 223]

You mean ran them down because Thorrington blew all the new club allocation money in years one & two so they had to move on a lot of their better players to be cap compliant?
And with Bradley gone didnt take LAFC too long to get back on top of the standings

[DinamoTFC]

No it wasn't. TFC needed the $150K GAM to move up from 22nd to 1st in the allocation list to get MAK in the end. Would you keep Pozuelo and lose MAK? Especially since Pozuelo was always going to leave for a free at the end of the year and making the playoffs would still be unlikely.

TFC had a boatload of GAM/TAM saved up. They could have sold anything or anyone for a small 150k if they really needed that little bit more.

Knowing that Kaye was partially injured/recovering when the deal for him was made keeping Poz was also sensible. Poz's intelligence to be able to play with Insigne, Bernardeschi, and support Jimenez etc would be more beneficial to the team IMO. And Poz did say he would also come back at a smaller contract. He also wouldn't make a direct eastern conference playoff opponent better. Deal for Kaye could have also been done in off-season, not like we are getting that much out of him since his injury has resurfaced.

[James17930]

Not going to happen - he's married to Andi Petrillo. It's one case where the Bogers/MLSE dynamic is not favourable to TFC.

But she works for One Soccer, no? How is she involved with MLSE and-or Bogers?

[los sonadores]

TFC had a boatload of GAM/TAM saved up. They could have sold anything or anyone for a small 150k if they really needed that little bit more.

Knowing that Kaye was partially injured/recovering when the deal for him was made keeping Poz was also sensible. Poz's intelligence to be able to play with Insigne, Bernardeschi, and support Jimenez etc would be more beneficial to the team IMO. And Poz did say he would also come back at a smaller contract. He also wouldn't make a direct eastern conference playoff opponent better. Deal for Kaye could have also been done in off-season, not like we are getting that much out of him since his injury has resurfaced.

If it was a fantasy game, yes, but in the real, Poz was unhappy and wanted to go to Miami and our manager was totally focussed on getting things to work well with who he wanted here.

Ideally, we send him to the western conference but that wasn’t really on either.

[noxx98]

And with Bradley gone didnt take LAFC too long to get back on top of the standings
In 2020 and 21 when LAFC struggled Vela played 424 minutes and 1,267 minutes. This season he's up to 1,800 minutes. There's your answer for what happened.

[DinamoTFC]

If it was a fantasy game, yes, but in the real, Poz was unhappy and wanted to go to Miami and our manager was totally focussed on getting things to work well with who he wanted here.

Ideally, we send him to the western conference but that wasn’t really on either.

And not long before he said that to Miami media he was telling us he wanted to be here and would come back for less and he was excited to be able to play with Insigne.

[los sonadores]

And not long before he said that to Miami media he was telling us he wanted to be here and would come back for less and he was excited to be able to play with Insigne.

He was our most expensive player with the responsibilities that come with that. He’s never going to flat out state he wants to be gone. But he wasn’t adapting, wasn’t being used properly. It was obvious that the fit wasn’t good. You don’t shoehorn him into a false nine under those circumstances.

[los sonadores]

In 2020 and 21 when LAFC struggled Vela played 424 minutes and 1,267 minutes. This season he's up to 1,800 minutes. There's your answer for what happened.

Zimmerman was let go as well. That was pretty obviously going to be trouble.

[OgtheDim]

I notice the people in here still arguing that Bradley is a crappy coach are the ones who think we can rent players for 6 months....


20 & 21 were also covid years

[Mr. Inbetween]

Mi chiamano Mimmo!
They call me Mimmo!

Unsung hero...
His name is Mimmo, he's Napoletano...
Played for Genoa, was their Capitano...
:)

A fine - class addition to TFC.
Fine command of the English language as well.

Another assist by that Michael guy ehh?
'...gave a good ball to me'


He’s been my favourite Italian so far.

https://twitter.com/Total_TFC/status/1560239987328786433

Michele: Bro!
Mimmo: Bro!
Michele: Com'onnn you!
Mimmo: Nah, you!
Michele: Bro!... grazie a Dio... your here!
Mimmo: Bro!... I got you... tutto bene!
http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/images/smilies/heart.gif http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/images/smilies/heart.gif http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/images/smilies/heart.gif http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/images/smilies/heart.gif http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/images/smilies/heart.gif

[DinamoTFC]

He was our most expensive player with the responsibilities that come with that. He’s never going to flat out state he wants to be gone. But he wasn’t adapting, wasn’t being used properly. It was obvious that the fit wasn’t good. You don’t shoehorn him into a false nine under those circumstances.

You really think he wouldn't be able to fit in with Insigne, Berna, Bradley and the rest of the group!?!? Whether he's on the field replacing Nelson or Jimenez I can 100% assure you our results would be better.

[los sonadores]

You really think he wouldn't be able to fit in with Insigne, Berna, Bradley and the rest of the group!?!? Whether he's on the field replacing Nelson or Jimenez I can 100% assure you our results would be better.

You’re missing my point entirely.

[Ultra & Proud]

You really think he wouldn't be able to fit in with Insigne, Berna, Bradley and the rest of the group!?!? Whether he's on the field replacing Nelson or Jimenez I can 100% assure you our results would be better.

Even though it's not what los sonadores was getting at, I will say no, he wouldn't fit in as a #9 because he would instictively do exactly what JJ is doing wrong; dropping too deep and not being in the typical target #9 zone when the ball is coming in from both flanks. Poz needs the ball to go through the middle and if that's what we were going to do then we just wasted $25M on wide players.

[OgtheDim]

Poz would be dropping back to the wings to pickup the ball - what Insigne & Bernadeschi do already.

[ag futbol]

At best, we would have keep Poz here for six months and after that he would have skipped town. Questionable how motivated he might have stayed under the circumstances.

It’s square-peg, round role type of stuff here.

[Oldtimer]

Even though it's not what los sonadores was getting at, I will say no, he wouldn't fit in as a #9 because he would instictively do exactly what JJ is doing wrong; dropping too deep and not being in the typical target #9 zone when the ball is coming in from both flanks. Poz needs the ball to go through the middle and if that's what we were going to do then we just wasted $25M on wide players.

You've hit on something very important. I've realized from my own past coaching experience that there are two types of highly talented players:

(1) "Left brained" talented players who think very logically but are super fast at that logic. They take direction well, analyze the game well, and can be played in different formations and strategies. They can even do decently playing a different position if they know the plays well enough. Osorio is a good example of this kind of player for TFC.

(2) "Right brained" talented instinctual players. These players don't do logic, instead they've developed a highly-honed "feel" for the game. They just know where to be at the right time to make plays happen. They are much less flexible, however, as they can't use logic well to over-ride their instincts, even though they might try.

Pozuelo is the second type of player. Very talented, but you build the system and the team around him if you want him. There's no way he bends into a false 9 to fit BB's system. That's where his frustration came from; he liked Toronto and wanted to play with talented players like Insigne but couldn't make himself fit the system. So this is why we are getting mixed messages of him both wanting to be here and be somewhere else.

MB by the way is a hybrid of these two types, which makes him a unique and interesting player that would be fun to work with.

[jloome]

Poz would be dropping back to the wings to pickup the ball - what Insigne & Bernadeschi do already.

We still have this issue with Jesus. He's an inverted winger (outside forward for those of us over 50), not a number nine, which is why he drifts high and wide and is out of position to make runs.

But his interplay makes it worth seeing if he can adapt and stay central.

Ayo's also a converted winger.

[Ultra & Proud]

We still have this issue with Jesus. He's an inverted winger (outside forward for those of us over 50), not a number nine, which is why he drifts high and wide and is out of position to make runs.

But his interplay makes it worth seeing if he can adapt and stay central.

Ayo's also a converted winger.

I will give it to Ayo that he learned where to be as a 9 but he just doesn't look physically up to it yet. I agree with Jiminez. I think if he simplified his game and forced himself to stick to a zone or play off the shoulder of the last defender he would be doing himself a favor. At least until he gets in sync with what's happening now.

And what is it with Jozy and now Ayo as bigger, stronger type central forwards that can never win aerial battles?

[los sonadores]

I think all the above Pozuelo posts/observations are correct. In short, positionally speaking, he’s not at his best either as a 9 or a winger and Bradley doesn’t use a 10… so it’s no surprise he’s no longer here.

Ayo’s an interesting one in the sense that he was an effective winger for the US young Nats and Vanney converted him under the guidance of Jozy. He’s often, to me, not looked entirely comfortable in that role, still regularly has trouble holding up the ball, for example.

[los sonadores]

We still have this issue with Jesus. He's an inverted winger (outside forward for those of us over 50), not a number nine, which is why he drifts high and wide and is out of position to make runs.

But his interplay makes it worth seeing if he can adapt and stay central.

Ayo's also a converted winger.

Yeah, I’m still hoping JJ has a role moving forward. He would at least be good depth in all three forward positions. What sort of money is he on?

[rydermike]

Yeah, I’m still hoping JJ has a role moving forward. He would at least be good depth in all three forward positions. What sort of money is he on?

He's on $935k.

[Ultra & Proud]

Yeah, I’m still hoping JJ has a role moving forward. He would at least be good depth in all three forward positions. What sort of money is he on?
Only way he could stay as a bench option is if they really do a number on the salary cap or allocation $$$ amounts.

[DinamoTFC]

Let me clarify a couple things. I'm not talking about Poz long term fitting in, but rather short term for the second half of season and playoff push. Also too much focus is being put on him as a false 9 (which is plan B) and not in the midfield.

Since Pozuelo left we have had 9 games.
Nelson started 7 and Kaye 2.

Without comparing Kaye and Poz and people's preferences. Knowing Kaye was riding an injury when being signed. That's 7 games Poz could have and would have contributed more to results than Nelson. Not hating on Nelson at this moment to be clear.

This is a playoff push that didn't need to be so extremely difficult is my point.

[OgtheDim]

Just a reminder that Poz leaving opened the door to Bernardeschi.....Salcedo told the team he needed to leave after Poz was all but gone. Not saying Bernardeschi wouldn't have signed without Poz going but it wouldn't have been so quick or the timing as good as it seems to have been.

[NK Toronto]

Let me clarify a couple things. I'm not talking about Poz long term fitting in, but rather short term for the second half of season and playoff push. Also too much focus is being put on him as a false 9 (which is plan B) and not in the midfield.

Since Pozuelo left we have had 9 games.
Nelson started 7 and Kaye 2.

Without comparing Kaye and Poz and people's preferences. Knowing Kaye was riding an injury when being signed. That's 7 games Poz could have and would have contributed more to results than Nelson. Not hating on Nelson at this moment to be clear.

This is a playoff push that didn't need to be so extremely difficult is my point.

What is also disappointing is that we didn't get much in return for Poz.

[ensco]

What is also disappointing is that we didn't get much in return for Poz.

We are not paying Poz's salary for the second half of 2022. YOU got almost nothing but MLSE made out with something.

[OgtheDim]

We got the ability to move towards Berenardeschi quicker.

Player acquirement is not linear a la Football Manager.

As in all talent recruitment for all organizations, there were a lot of 3 dimensional movements going on - I wouldn't call this chess as the pieces do not have movement restrictions that much & chess implies strategic rigour which life does not have to endure.

(I am a firm believer in the application of chaos theory to organizational structures -complex systems theory attempts to make this into a science but I prefer to just enjoy the chaos)

[Hala Hrvatska]

What is also disappointing is that we didn't get much in return for Poz.

Agreed my favourite player. And you get bet he will put on a show tonight and burn us big time.

[Mr. Inbetween]

We got the ability to move towards Berenardeschi quicker.

Player acquirement is not linear a la Football Manager.

As in all talent recruitment for all organizations, there were a lot of 3 dimensional movements going on - I wouldn't call this chess as the pieces do not have movement restrictions that much & chess implies strategic rigour which life does not have to endure.

(I am a firm believer in the application of chaos theory to organizational structures -complex systems theory attempts to make this into a science but I prefer to just enjoy the chaos)

Might you also be suggesting that Lorenzian Chaos gave us Lorenzo?

[Section 223]

Let me clarify a couple things. I'm not talking about Poz long term fitting in, but rather short term for the second half of season and playoff push. Also too much focus is being put on him as a false 9 (which is plan B) and not in the midfield.

Since Pozuelo left we have had 9 games.
Nelson started 7 and Kaye 2.

Without comparing Kaye and Poz and people's preferences. Knowing Kaye was riding an injury when being signed. That's 7 games Poz could have and would have contributed more to results than Nelson. Not hating on Nelson at this moment to be clear.

This is a playoff push that didn't need to be so extremely difficult is my point.
I agree with everything you are saying, it’s something one of the journos can ask Bob, but on second thought he will give us the old song and dance, sure would be nice to have Poz with us instead of against us tonight

[Ultra & Proud]

I agree with everything you are saying, it’s something one of the journos can ask Bob, but on second thought he will give us the old song and dance, sure would be nice to have Poz with us instead of against us tonight

The explanation on why Poz wouldn't be any better than JJ at 9 is above. Pretty easy to understand why he wouldn't work there.

[OgtheDim]

It should be noted that BB was asked the game before Poz left what was going on with Poz & BB went into a 5 minute discussion of how much they tried to get Poz to fit.

The idea that BB gave up on Poz is ludicrous. Like all things, there is a bit of grey involved in this. Poz does not fit BB's system - nor does it fit life with Insigne - he especially wouldn't fit life with Insigne, Bernadeschi & Domenic Crisicto doing his best impression of a playmaker who just happens to play LB (Criscito often ends games with the most passes on the team).