TFC looks to keep Union at arm’s length
Reds can keep opponents in rear view mirror with win Saturday at BMO Field
Toronto FC has spent this season making BMO Field into something of a fortress.
The goal is simple: Make sure visiting teams below the Reds in the standings when they arrive are still behind them when they leave.
“Ideally as far behind us as possible, meaning we pick up three points and really push them back,” TFC coach Greg Vanney said Friday.
It’s especially important heading into a crucial stretch of the season. The next three opponents — the Philadelphia Union on Saturday, Orlando City on Wednesday and DC United next Saturday — all sit behind the Reds, who led the Eastern Conference heading into Friday’s action.
“If we have any intention as a group to win the East and to vie for a Supporters Shield (first overall), this week will be an important week,” Vanney said. “I think it’s always critical and ideal to get the week started with three points.”
The fourth-place Union, six points behind TFC, are on a three-game winless streak.
While star striker Sebastian Giovinco — out since late August with quad and adductor injuries — is “very questionable” for Saturday’s match, Vanney said, Philadelphia’s visit could be the perfect opportunity for the Reds to strengthen their position.
Their success at home has waned in the last two games — a loss to Montreal, then a come-from-behind draw with the New York Red Bulls. To regain their form from the previous homestand, where they raked in a perfect 12 points from four matches, the Reds must cut down on defensive errors.
Defender Drew Moor said the key to moving on from the mistakes that prevented them from clinching a playoff spot last Sunday is refocusing and remembering that solid defence has been the key to Toronto’s success most of the season.
“Yeah, we want to get numbers forward. We want to go and take the game to the other team right now. But we have to be sure we’re clean at the back, and we’ve got guys in the right spots and we’ve got the correct numbers back,” Moor said. After MLS announced TFC had clinched a playoff spot by tying the Red Bulls, then took it away after further calculations, a win over Philadelphia would definitely guarantee a post-season berth.
Vanney says the potential of clinching Saturday isn’t a hot topic among his players.
“They know exactly what’s going on,” the coach said. “They know what they’re trying to achieve. They’re confident in what they’re capable of doing. They know what’s in front of them.”