It wasn't pretty but the boys got the job done. Toronto FC and Real Salt Lake looked the weary warriors and found themselves almost deadlocked for much of the game. Both sides showed flashes but nothing seemed to really click. Some amazing keeping from Alex Bono kept Toronto in it and a second-half goal from Tosaint Ricketts put them over the edge.
The Opening 45
Toronto seemed interested in recreating the last two games with a great deal of early energy but that almost cost them defensively, as Kyle Beckerman came close to scoring a header in the first 5 minutes and his miss was almost knocked in by Javier Morales who just wasn't able to get to it in time.
From that point on both teams seemed more focused on keeping away from their own net than attacking the other's.
Most chances for both sides seemed based more in capitalizing on errors rather than great offensive play. For most of the half, Toronto seemed more prone to errors but thankfully Bono and Drew Moor (who's looking good with that captain's armband) were able to pull off some excellent play.
Toronto created some great chances late but were unable to create any magic.
The Second Half
The game's pace remained mostly unchanged during the second-half. Chances seemed stumbled upon rather than made and both teams remained defensively focused. And then Toronto subbed in Jozy Altidore and Ricketts.
Their arrival gave Toronto a much-needed boost offensively that resulted in Ricketts scoring in the 68th minute. Toronto would also have other moments of near glory but nothing of note.
Salt Lake also had their moments in the second-half and possibly allowed Bono the game he needed to prove that once Clint Irwin returns, he shouldn't just be given the starter spot back.
Man of the Match
Alex Bono
How Bono has grown since Irwin got injured. Last year when I saw him with TFC2 I questioned him as a first round pick. He's proved me wrong. He's truly capable of making the big saves when needed and won Toronto this game.
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