The Challengers: Toronto FC (9-8-4) vs. Sporting Kansas City (9-4-7)
When: Saturday, August 8 - 4:00 PM ET TV: TSN
Weather: Partly cloudy and 21 degrees
Three Keys: Warner's Emergence
The Reds are getting consistently strong performances from Collen Warner this season. His defensive work has been there throughout the season, but it’s been his ability to get forward in recent weeks that’s been eye opening. “I’ve been finding myself in the box more than usual lately which has been pleasant and I’ve been making the most of my chances,” he said after bagging his second goal of the year on Wednesday. “I think our defensive group is coming together really well which gives us a lot of support and a lot of confidence to move forward.” Vanney will have a decision to make with Bradley expected to return to the lineup on Saturday. Delgado has been immense in the captain’s absence, but Warner’s proclivity to the defensive side of the game should warrant a start against KC’s dangerous attack.
No Perquis, Dwyer or Espinoza
Suspensions will be a factor for both sides. Dom Dwyer and Roger Espinoza (the latter could miss the rest of the season due to injury) will not be available for the visitors. Damien Perquis will also miss out due to yellow card accumulation.
Giovinco Is Player Of The Month
Major League Soccer (MLS) announced Thursday that Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco has been named the Etihad Airways Player of the Month for July. He becomes the first player in club history to win Player of the Month honours.
Super Seba Stats
Sebastian Giovinco passed Dwayne De Rosario for the club’s single season goals mark on Wednesday night. Giovinco’s 14th, 15th and 16th goals on the season capped yet another remarkable performance by the Atomic Ant. He took over the MLS goal lead as well, garnering praise from his closest rival, Kei Kamara, for the Golden Boot.
Lakeshore Clsoure
It will be closed from Parkside Drive to Strachan Ave until 6pm. Fans can enter the Ex Grounds from Dufferin or Strachan, but public transportation should definitely be taken and to allow for extra time getting down here.
