Rapids present Reds with golden opportunity
Every game is a big game as Toronto FC closes in on the end of the regular season, with a first-ever playoff berth in sight.
But the home side should make easy work Saturday of Western Conference basement-dwellers Colorado Rapids at BMO Field.
The matchup has proven difficult for the Reds in recent years, with the Rapids winning 1-0 in each of the last two seasons.
But Toronto’s home record against Colorado is more encouraging: TFC was the victor in six of seven games at BMO Field.
This will be Toronto FC’s third game in six days, but anything less than three points would be unacceptable. TORONTO FC (11-13-4) vs. COLORADO (8-10-10)
Location: BMO Field Time: 2 p.m. TV: TSN1, TSN4
Last game: The Reds dropped their third game in a row Wednesday night at Yankee Stadium against New York
The Rapids may be a last-place team, but they have given the Reds trouble in recent years
City FC. Former Chelsea and Manchester City stalwart Frank Lampard opened his MLS account in the 2-0 loss.
The Reds were once again shut out and have now conceded more goals than any team in the Eastern Conference save for expansion side Orlando City SC. Projected Starting XI
Toronto FC: Chris Konopka (GK) Justin Morrow (DF), Ahmed Kantari (DF), Damien Perquis (DF), Josh Williams (DF), Benoit Cheyrou (MF), Jonathan Osorio (MF), Collen Warner (MF), Michael Bradley (MF), Giovinco (F), Jozy Altidore (F)
Colorado Rapids: Clint Irwin (GK), Drew Moor (DF), Bobby Burling (DF), Sean St. Ledger (DF), Maynor Figueroa (DF), Lucas Pittinari (MF), Sam Cronin (MF), Vincente Sánchez (MF), Dillon Powers (MF) Dillon Serna (MF), Kevin Doyle (F)
Rapids player to watch: Goalkeeper Clint Irwin has started all 28 of Colorado’s games. He has amassed eight shutouts but the MLS all-star has been known to keep his team in the game, which could be worrisome for a Toronto side that has struggled to score recently.
Next game: After a demanding week with three games, Toronto has seven days off to recuperate before facing the Chicago Fire Sept. 26. Another struggling side at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, it’s another must-win game for the Reds.