Toronto FC went back to winning ways this weekend by clinching a 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union. The result moved the Canadian side in a two-way tie for second place in the Eastern Conference for the time-being, with games in hand over their competition. Toronto sees itself in a tight race for playoff spots, with the difference between second place and a playoff miss being just 5 points.
The Union came into the game being stuck right outside the playoff picture. A win would help them get back into the playoff places. The American side were without Fernando Aristeguieta while Toronto were missing their captain, Michael Bradley.
The game started with Philadelphia carrying the play and they mustered up a few good chances on Joe Bendik. They were unable to finish their chances and 29 minutes into the game, Toronto struck. Jonathan Osorio played a lovely fake to turn inwards and play a soft pass to Sebastian Giovinco, who played a sweet dink to Marky Delgado in the box to smash home. It was the youngster’s second goal is as many games as head coach Greg Vanney hands more responsibility to the U20 USA international. A couple of minutes later and Sebastian Giovinco marauded towards the 18 yard box, blasted a shot at the keeper, only for his rebound to bounce out, which he followed up and bagged in the bottom corner. Toronto enjoyed a strong spell around 30 minutes into the game as Jozy Altidore also played a precise through ball to send Giovinco on a breakaway, only for the Italian’s shot to go wide of the far post. The game became a rather uneventful event after the half. However, at the 91st minute, Conor Casey took advantage of subpar defending and placed a shot in the bottom right corner of Joe Bendik’s net. The Union lacked the fight and weren’t able to claw their way into the game. Even after Casey single-handedly gave them a life-line, they didn’t mount a fight-back. That could be down to the extremely humid and hot conditions at BMO Field. Jackson made a decent substitute appearance, and young Jay Chapman also had a solid showing as an 83rd minute substitute.
The buzz post-game surrounded the performance of creative young Canadian midfielder, Jonathan Osorio. Osorio had a calm and dynamic showing in his return from the Canadian national team. Another Canadian team member returning to the team, left-back Ashtone Morgan, had a fantastic performance too. The 24-year old Canadian, usually known for his strong defensive showings, combined that with strong runs down the flank. He threatened offensively and defensively. With beers all around post-game, everyone was in a festive mood.
Post-game, Greg Vanney asserted Joe Bendik as the true #1 goalkeeper of the team, dismissing any talk of a goalkeeping controversy with Chris Konopka. Vanney galvanized the hustle of skilled forward Giovinco, cherishing his ability to give the team whatever it needs in all situations, such as an aerial battle or a physical battle. Vanney was pleased with Delgado, citing his engine which helped in defending as well as attacking. Vanney added, “Marky I’ve known since the academy.. Always able to do incredible amount of work on the field and technically gifted.”
Toronto will have a mid-week friendly against Premier League side Sunderland, before taking on Columbus Crew in a vital matchup between the two teams tied for second place in the eastern conference, with Vanney saying his greatest focus is on the Crew match.
