Can you write an entire match preview in song lyrics? The critics say it can’t be done. The more rational (read: sane) say it’s completely unnecessary. So we’ll try new things. You could say we're on our worst behaviour.
That's why I keep telling you over and over again
Toronto FC will be missing several integral members of their squad on Sunday. Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore are away on international duty. Justin Morrow is suspended after his appeal was denied. Steven Caldwell hasn’t trained this week and will almost certainly not be available on Sunday.
So where do we stand? Ashtone Morgan has been recalled from Toronto FC II and will likely slot in at left back in Morrow’s place. Nick Hagglund will start in place of Caldwell and it seems Damien Perquis will be beside him. That’s great news after a few days of worry regarding the Polish international’s fitness.
In Bradley’s place will be Collen Warner.The former RSL midfielder knows altitude and has been a key factor as a substitute through the first two games. Beside him we expect Jonathan Osorio and Benoit Cheyrou. Sure, Bradley won’t be there, but that’s a formidable crew in the middle.
Robbie Findley goes up against his former team with something to prove. After scoring his first for the Reds in the season opener out west he’s looking to fill the void left by Altidore’s absence. So is Luke Moore, who wants to show what he can do during a prolonged stay on the pitch. So does Jordan Hamilton, who is on the cusp of making the full time leap to the big squad. Being on the cusp is nice, but you gotta get over the ledge. He's making the trip and may get a chance.
Suitcase, I been living outta' suitcase
The road grind is real, though the stop in Salt Lake City comes after a bye week.
Toronto FC is almost at the halfway mark of their opening season sojourn through North America. Head coach Greg Vanney didn’t mention a number on the amount of points he wanted to take out of the opening seven games, but it’s fair to say the coaching staff would be pleased with three points through two, tough, opening games in hostile environments.
The schedule eases slightly following the fixture against Real Salt Lake, but this is where you steal points. TFC doesn’t do well in Sandy, Utah. Nobody really does. Might be time for something new.
Know Yourself
The identity of Toronto FC 2015 is still being forged.
They were the bully in Vancouver, spoiling opening day for their rivals.
They were the aggrieved in Ohio, lamenting a red card on their way to being outplayed in the second half against another rival, this time in Columbus.
Though they’re missing key players, the third fixture in a long year should tell us a little more about this iteration of Toronto FC.
Through adversity we’ll learn about the makeup of this team. The depth of this team has been championed throughout the preseason. We’ll see how much depth TFC truly has in Salt Lake City.
Catch the game on Sportsnet One this Sunday at 7:00 PM ET. The FAN 590 will also carry the game.
