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Posted by
Mat Rooney,
July 3, 2016 |
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Mat Rooney
On Twitter:
@Canucks_Abroad
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BMO seemed very party like post-Canadian Championship win, with Icelandic-style claps and a planned fireworks show but unfortunately Toronto were unable to deliver. With the likes of Michael Bradley, Will Johnson and Clint Irwin out with injuries, Toronto started a sort of experimental line-up with number of rookies (Alex Bono, Jordan Hamilton and Tsubasa Endoh), bench players (Eriq Zavaleta and Jay Chapman) and Mark Bloom, who made his first MLS appearance since 2014, against the also weakened Seattle Sounders.
Despite dominating early and having a number of chances, Toronto was unable to find the net and when they finally did in the second half, Seattle quickly tied it.
Fireworks at BMO! After the match.
The Opening 45
The makeshift Toronto dominated early but were unable to get a single shot on target. What looked like easy goals for Chapman, Hamilton and Sebastian Giovinco all missed the target. Seattle were unable to get a single decent chance in the half thanks to some strong defending from Toronto but sadly Toronto's lack of finishing meant they were going into the half 0-0.
The Second Half
Seattle seemed more prepared for Toronto in the second half, allowing Stefan Frei some room to breath. But Hamilton was able to take advantage of an out of position Frei in the 60th minute when he was able to blast a rebound into the back of the net giving Toronto the lead.
However, the celebration died quickly as Seattle's Jordan Morris, who looked amazing for Seattle, equalized the game a minute later. From there on the game slowly died down, with neither team really gaining control. Seattle nearly had a second goal but the returning Bloom was somehow able to keep it out and the game ended in a lackluster draw.
With Bradley, Irwin and Johnson possibly out for another 7 games and Jozy Altidore's return date still unknown, Toronto's current form is concerning with how tight the eastern conference currently is. With the transfer market opening very soon, Toronto would be wise to secure some reinforcements or risk another downward spiral.
On a positive note, Canadian Raheem Edwards made his debut for Toronto when he was subbed into the game in the 88th minute for Zavaleta.
Man of the Match
Jordan Hamilton
With several chances and Toronto's only goal, Hamilton's performance was the highlight of a mostly disappointing performance from Toronto. With 2 goals in 2 games (plus another 2 in Canadian Championship play), he's truly proved that he's ready for the MLS.
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