After a midweek clash with Edmonton FC in which Toronto won 1-0 and advanced to the final of the NCC, the Reds take on the Houston Dynamo, which are now Eastern Conference opponents. Houston was transferred over to the Eastern Conference after the Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers were brought into the league. Toronto FC will be looking to capitalize on a Houston squad which lost midweek to the defending MLS Cup Champions Colorado Rapids 2-1.
Of importance is that Houston has never won in Toronto, and that a Toronto win has a six point implication in the standings. A Toronto FC win will also help to recover their MLS form, and to repair their relationship with the fans. As of recent, some attention has been paid to the dwindling numbers present at BMO during TFC games. As a consequence of Toronto’s poor form, a history of bad results, and a large turnover rate of personnel coming in and out of BMO, the fans are showing their disappointment. A Toronto win may help to revive the BMO crowd in the short-term, but the team needs to string together some good results in order to create a winning mentality and culture.
Looking forward to the Houston game at 7 P.M ET on Saturday, the Reds may finally give one of their newly acquired gems his first MLS start. Joao Plata is only 5’3 and has made an impact since the first leg of the NCC semi-finals against Edmonton. The speedy winger has offered ingenuity through his passing, and also shows how his speed can be horrifying for defenders. Look for the duo of Martina-Plata at some point on the wings to create havoc for Houston defenders. Toni Tchani is also slotted in the midfield after serving a one-game ban, and Julian De Guzman should be fit to start. Toronto FC will be missing the services of Alan Gordon up front, however Maicon Santos will be leading the charge against the men in orange.
Look for an attack-minded squad put together by Aron Winter on Saturday night, whom will look to push for the 3 points and to gain some momentum as the Reds continue a busy schedule which will test the strength and depth of the squad in the upcoming games.
(image courtesy of torontofc.ca)
