The early results on this edition of Toronto FC are in.
Defensively, the Reds remain a work in progress. Sebastian Giovinco continues to find his footing in MLS and the early indications have been excellent, as evidenced by two terrific goals in the latter stages of Saturday night’s loss.
Five games into the season we know enough about this team to make some proclamations. Though they may not be bold, they’re worth stating as we assess where TFC is through the nascent portion of the 2015 campaign. There are 29 games left in the season. I repeat: 29.
1) Giovinco Is As Good As Advertised
“He played the second half with a real chip on his shoulder, meaning he was going after this game and willing this game from an attacking standpoint,” head coach Greg Vanney said following
Saturday
Sunday night’s game.
“He was special in his moments when he was on the ball and his work off the ball was special, too. For us, it was a really positive sign. It shows you what he’s capable of. He really, for me, put on a clinic in the second half of what he’s really, truly capable of.”
Sebastian Giovinco has been as good as advertised through five games. Though consistent service into the Italian has yet to come, Giovinco’s on the ball skills are exceptional. Offensively, he’ll put this team on his back in 2015, small stature be damned.
2) The Defence Conundrum
Nick Hagglund has had better games, there is no doubt, but it’s worth pointing out that he was put in a difficult position against Toros winger Fabian Castillo, one of the faster players in the league
After two Dallas goals Hagglund and Justin Morrow swapped positions and, if not for a mixup between Damien Perquis and Collen Warner, the Reds performed at a higher level defensively following the switch.
TFC’s tactical approach through five games seems pretty clear. Dominate possession, press in the opposition’s zone and employ a high line. It’s left the club’s fullbacks vulnerable to pace on the wings. David Accam and Castillo have caused major problems in recent weeks.
Mark Bloom and Steven Caldwell continue to work their way back from injuries, and the hope is that they’re fit for Sunday’s game in Orlando. If Bloom can’t go it’s possible Morrow gets another run at right back.
It’ll be up to Vanney and his staff to decide if changes need to be made to TFC’s defensive system. Does TFC have the optimal personnel to employ a high line? The early returns suggest the answer is probably not.
3) Bradley’s Role
Through five games Giovinco has three goals and two assists. Those numbers could be even better if Seba received the ball in attacking areas with more frequency, something Vanney wants to see more of. That’s what happened in the latter stages of Saturday's match in Texas.
Giovinco’s dominance also coincided with Michael Bradley playing in a more advanced role, like he does for the United States national team.
With Collen Warner sitting in front of the back four, Bradley was allowed to move further up field — something TFC’s captain excels at. It’s worth noting that Jurgen Klinsmann and Vanney haven’t seen eye-to-eye on this matter. It’s also worth noting FC Dallas took their foot off the pedal in the second half after scoring three quick goals.
But it can be argued Bradley is best used as an attacking midfielder with Giovinco and Jozy Altidore in front of him.
Offence hasn’t been a problem for the club, only the Red Bulls have scored more goals per minute in the east thus far, but playing Bradley further up could make Giovinco even more dangerous.
The final two games of this road trip are eminently winnable. TFC’s fightback after a prolonged rain delay in Dallas was notable. If they can build off that there will be reason for optimism heading into May 10th’s home opener.
