The Reds open up the 2017 season on the road against Real Salt Lake. Here are the Benjamin Moore three keys to the match.  

Starts with Defending

It all starts at the back for Toronto FC. The Reds started last season with a 2-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. TFC went on to record ten clean sheets while only conceding 39 goals last season.

The team’s strong defensive play was a trademark for last year MLS Cup finalists. They set the tone last year on the road, look for the same this time around.

Transition through the midfield

Transition through the midfield is going to be huge. Real Salt Lake plays a 4-2-3-1 with Kyle Beckerman as the centrepiece. Beckerman holds down the midfield playing between the two centre backs.

It is going to be incumbent on the Toronto FC midfielders to get involved by bringing in the wide players to open up channels for Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore to get the ball.=

Minnesota United FC burned Real Salt Lake in the preseason, look for Toronto to do the same.

Control the Tempo

TFC controlled the tempo of play so well over their run to the MLS Cup Final. They dictated the tempo, they were always in control, and there is no sitting back.

If the Reds can do so in this match, almost play like the home side, it will bode well.