The reviews are in. Toronto FC fans opened the newly renovated BMO Field with fervor and the team took notice.

After an eight-game road trip that took the Reds to some of the toughest away venues in the league it was finally time for our homecoming. The 30,025 sellout crowd didn’t disappoint.

In discussions with players this week one word was repeatedly brought up: energy. Making the environment that much more intimidating for the visitors, in this case FC Dallas, was having the seats filled before the teams emerged from the tunnel. 

“They were all in their seats right when we walked out of the tunnel which was amazing," said right back Steven Beitashour. "Sometimes you see fans trickle in late and it’s not as intimidating for the visitors. When the fans are all there it gives us so much energy.”

“There were a lot of emotions,” added centre-back Josh Williams.

“To walk out and have that many people be there that early, I think that was the biggest thing for all of us. Just the electricity we felt.”

The fans did their part. Now it was up to the team to do the same. A convincing 1-0 result, one in which Tsubasa Endoh recorded his first professional goal, was pretty much the perfect start to TFC’s home campaign in 2016.

“All the players felt a responsibility to win the first game in the new stadium,” said goalkeeper Clint Irwin. “You want those people to come back. You want them to have a good time and entertain them and the best way to do that is to win the game. We didn’t really talk about it too much but I think it was a feeling everyone had. It was awesome. The atmosphere was amazing.”

There were many fantastic photos shared throughout the match. Perhaps the strongest one taken, however, occurred near the start.

“I mentioned to Eriq Zavaleta that this feels like you’re behind the camera,” said Williams.

“It felt like I was on the couch watching a Champions League match. The Champions League music was the only thing that was missing. To have that type of support and energy in the stadium, it’s a day I’ll never forget.”

With three games left in this home stand the team is hoping they’ll see similar displays of support in the stands.

The Reds continue their stay at home under the lights against the Vancouver Whitecaps [TICKETS]. This Saturday’s All-Canadian clash kicks off at 7:30 PM ET. Get there early. It makes a difference.