Toronto FC takes on New York City FC for the the third and final time this season on Wednesday night at Yankee Stadium (7:30 PM ET, TSN, TSN 1050).
Their first two meetings produced very different results. On June 20 Jason Kreis’ side opted for a physical playing style, one that saw the game devolve into multiple scuffles. It worked for the visitors, who left BMO Field with a 2-0 win.
Under a month later we saw arguably the most entertaining game of the season. Sebastian Giovinco recorded his first MLS hat-trick, but a late defensive error resulted in a 4-4 tie after the Reds led late.
Andrea Pirlo and Frank Lampard didn’t feature in either of those games, while Michael Bradley and Jozy Alitodore missed the latter due to international duty. All four players will feature tonight.
Greg Vanney, Josh Williams and Collen Warner spoke to Toronto FC TV ahead of the match. Here’s some of what they had to say.
Vanney on TFC’s success when scoring first
“It’s proven to help us a lot [when we score the first goal]. We have a pretty good record when we score the first goal. We have a lot of strength in the attack and when you get the first goal it forces the opposition to push a little bit, send more numbers forward. That opens up space for Seba, Jozy, Michael and the attacking crew. For us it’s always important to get the first goal and we need to do it more often.”
Vanney on the importance of taking points vs. NYCFC
“I think all the points are important at this point. New York City are still in the [playoff] picture for one of those spots. For us to try to get something out of this game, ideally three points, we would also be able to put another a team a little further behind us. We still have designs on pushing higher up in the standings. This is one of our last two road games and to be able to pick up some points and go home for quite a stretch of games would be a good momentum builder.”
Vanney on David Villa’s status (questionable) for the match
“We have to always be aware if he’s on the field. He moves in very clever ways and likes to drift out to the left side. He’s always threatening to get behind your back line. If he’s out there we need to be very much aware of him but I don’t think it changes our overall tactics or approach to the game whether he’s on the field or not.
Josh Williams on playing his former team
“When you come back to [play] an old team there’s always a little extra motivation. But right now I’m just worried about Toronto FC. I’m worried about getting three points.”
Williams on finding a rhythm after making five straight starts
“After being out for two to three months it kind of felt like it was preseason. Now I’m getting into the regular season. In some sense I am getting into a rhythm, playing with a new team, breaking in with those guys and feeling everyone out.”
Williams on playing with new partners on the back line
“We have so much depth on this team that no matter who I’m playing next to I feel comfortable, whether it’s Ahmed, Damien or Eriq.
Williams on the field dimensions at Yankee Stadium
“It’s definitely a weird set up. Sometimes the referees get a little disoriented by the lines and the cut of the grass. That’s something I’m telling [my teammates]. Play to the whistle and even then some.”
Collen Warner on returning from a two-game suspension
“I’m very excited to be back with the group and be here on the road for an important match. It’s a really good feeling."
Warner on his expectations for the match
“I expect another competitive game for sure. They’re a team that is always bringing fight to the game and they’re a technical team.”
