The Challengers: Toronto FC (3-5-1) vs. Portland Timbers (3-4-4)
Watch: Saturday, May 23, 2015 - 5:00 PM ET - TSN
Weather: 19 degrees, Sunny and a 0% chance of precipitation
Three Keys: Replacing Altidore
It will not be an easy task but Toronto FC must replace Jozy Altidore’s goal output while the American international recovers from a hamstring strain. Altidore has recorded six goals in all competitions. “Guys will have to step up, but that’s why we have a 29-man roster,” said Greg Vanney. “We have to give guys opportunities. Obviously Luke [Moore] had some minutes this past weekend, and we’ll see how Robbie [Findley] progresses over the course of the week. We have other options that we can look at as well, with Jordan Hamilton doing well in the training sessions. We have some other options we could consider with guys having played forward before.” Hamilton is perhaps the most intriguing option, one that fans and pundits alike have wanted to see get an opportunity with the first team.
Come On You Reds Podcast: Episode 12
Devang and Gareth discuss the upcoming match against Portland, figure out what to do up front without Jozy Altidore and chat with Benoit Cheyrou about his favourite footballing memories.
Greg Vanney On The Goalkeeping Competition
“I think it’s a great scenario. Chris [Konopka] has really stepped up and Joe [Bendik], we know, is capable of being a starter in this league. Now, we have real competition in the position, and I think that’s fantastic. Now, between the two of them, they’re going to battle it out and see how can be our guy. That’s fair, that’s how every other position is and that’s how the goalkeeper position should be. As Joe gets healthy, we look forward to the challenge to see who’s going to step up.”
Projected Portland Timbers Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
Kwarasey; Villafana, Ridgewell, Borchers, Powell; Jewsbury, Chara; Wallace, Valeri, Nagbe; Adi.
Toronto FC II vs. Rochester Rhinos Preview - 8:00 PM ET on Saturday following Toronto FC game at BMO Field
TFC II will be playing their home opener at BMO Field this Saturday as they take on the Rochester Rhinos at 8:00PM. The last meeting between the two clubs ended in a 1-0 loss for your Reds after a stoppage time goal by Rhinos substitute Steevan “Duba” Humberto Fortes Dos Santos gave Rochester the victory.
