Toronto FC will re-open the newly renovated BMO Field this weekend to what they expect to be a sold out crowd of 30,000. A side rejuvenated in recent weeks by the play of Sebastian Giovinco, their midweek clash with Montreal illustrated just how important the Atomic Ant is to the Reds. But just how important will he be this weekend for the Reds Homecoming match?
Toronto FC – Houston Dynamo Match Preview
Jozy Altidore is tied with Giovinco for goals scored, which at first glance leads one to believe their contributions are equal – the reality is far from it. Anyone who has watched at least part of a Toronto FC match know just how much of a difference Giovinco can make, and why a side without him would be distraught. Tied for 5th in the league with three assists already on the season, the only player arguably as well rounded as him at the moment is Seattle’s Clint Dempsey.
Houston come into this match ranked 9th in the Western Conference, but with three additional games played; they are still one point up on Toronto with 10. Obviously the biggest threat to Toronto will be Giles Barnes, the former West Bromwich Albion striker tallying five so far on the season. The Toronto backline seem to have held their own in their previous two MLS outings despite the continued losses of Mark Bloom, Steven Caldwell and now Joe Bendik – the upward progress is evident from arguably their darkest moments in the first half lapse away to FC Dallas. The Amway Canadian Championship match against Montreal apart, in which a weakened side took to the pitch to rest players for this weekend, things seem to have taken a positive turn for the Reds.
It’s setting up to be one of the most important matches in Toronto FC history for regaining the supporters, for reinstalling faith in the oft trodden upon club. If they can muster a victory in front of a sold-out crowd, if Giovinco and Altidore can perform, if the backline can hold it together – if, if, if. On countless occasions supporters of the club have been let down; will this Sunday be any different?
Toronto FC’s performances so far this season indicate that finally, a viable contender has taken shape north of the border. Cheyrou’s slick play coupled with Bradley’s dictation of the tempo has led to Toronto often controlling runs of play for long spells. Jackson has flourished so far this season and his dashing runs will attempt to pull the Houston defenders out of position to leave room for Giovinco to slide in behind.
If Houston’s Kofi Sarkodie or Ricardo Clark take part in the match, which at this time is extremely likely, expect them to hound Giovinco. The pair is tied for third in the league with most cards accumulated and will attempt to hinder Giovinco from drifting atop the line into the midfield in the classic Italian sense of the “Trequartista” role. Nathan Sturgis’ return to Toronto will also be an interesting to look out for as per usual; he never really lived up to his first round draft selection hype when he was dealt to the Reds. Needless to say, it won’t be easy for Altidore and Giovinco, but mind you, what MLS match isn’t a challenge?
