Toronto, Ontario, Canada (March 18, 2019) — Jozy Altidore knows how to make an entrance. The Toronto FC striker did so on Sunday night, propelling his side to a victory at home over the New England Revolution.
Altidore made his season debut in the 68th minute. He’s been since the end of last season with an ankle injury. Back in October, Altidore received surgery for the injury. Meanwhile, on Sunday night, all of his rehab paid off with a game-winning goal.
Jozy Altidore scores in season debut as Toronto FC narrowly edges Revolution
All tied up at 2-2, Altidore snuck a shot past New England goalkeeper Brad Knighton to give Toronto the final lead. For the second time in club history, Toronto has now won their first two matches of the season. After the match, Altidore said the whole play happened because of fellow forward Ayo Akinola.
Altidore continued to say how the fan support meant the world to him in his return.
In regard to Akinola, the young striker notched the first goal of the match. After beating around New England defenders, Akinola took a shot inside the box, surrounded by three defenders. The goal is his first in the MLS. Meanwhile, Jordan Hamilton scored Toronto’s second goal — on his birthday.
As for the Revolution, Carles Gil tapped in both goals. His first goal came on a penalty kick, which was earned when Toronto defender Chris Mavinga brought down Teal Bunbury inside the box.
What better way to end your Paddy's Day than with three points at home? ☘️#TFCLive | #TORvNE pic.twitter.com/u1eHTk2mST
— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) March 18, 2019
Three Takeaways
- Toronto’s defense was a nightmare: Despite recording a victory, Toronto’s defense had a rough night at BMO Field. The penalty conceded by Mavinga was a poor decision, as the foul came from behind Bunbury. As a veteran defender, Mavinga should know better. Meanwhile, on Gil’s second goal, there was no effort from the defense. Gil had all the time in the world and no pressure on him. Once he took the shot, which was on the ground, there was no urgency from the defense. Toronto needs to clean the defense up.
- Jordan Hamilton’s goal should’ve gone to VAR: Offsides by at least a mile — actually it was about five yards — Hamilton got lucky on his birthday. It’s a poor job by referee Ted Unkel and VAR referees Geoff Gamble and Philippe Briere for not taking a closer look. Toronto FC got lucky. With that said, New England needs to reinforce the idea of playing until the whistle. After realizing Hamilton was offsides, Antonio Mlinar Delamea essentially gave up on the play, not putting pressure on Jay Chapman.
- Ayo Akinola is a bright spot for Toronto: Altidore isn’t getting any younger and eventually he will retire or begin to sit back a bit. Ayo Akinola had a great game against New England, weaving his way through defenders. After the match, Altidore said that he’s always on his back in training. However, it looks like that extra coaching from the veteran Altidore is helping the young striker.
Felt great to be back in my house. Amazing atmosphere tonight! pic.twitter.com/KCfhJnuqor
— Jozy Altidore (@JozyAltidore) March 18, 2019
What’s Next?
The international break is going to effect both teams, but New England has a match this weekend. On Sunday, the Revolution will host expansion club FC Cincinnati at Gillette Stadium.
Cincinnati is coming off a 3-0 victory against Portland.
Meanwhile, Toronto FC get another extended rest. Toronto will face New York City FC at BMO Field on March 29. NYCFC has a bit of confidence under their belt after drawing with Los Angeles FC.
