The Reds keep on rolling, and they’re showing a good bit of versatility in the process.
Putting three past Minnesota United FC on Saturday afternoon, TFC demonstrated versatility in the attack, using pace and power to earn another three points.
In this week’s Video Room, let’s take a look at how Raheem Edwards and Jozy Altidore put their stamp on the match.
The Situation
Looking for their sixth straight win, a battle-worn Toronto side faced a stern test from the Loons and needed big performances from some familiar faces.
No strangers to the occasion, Edwards and Altidore stepped up to create two moments of inspiration to help power the team to victory.
The Play(s)
With the match still scoreless in 19th minute, TFC went on the attack in search of the opener. Benoit Cheyrou took an advanced position in the final third looking to spray the ball wide and spotted the run of Edwards.
Playing the ball into space, Edwards sees the opportunity to drive the ball forward and takes his first touch towards the box. MNUFC forward Abu Danladi tries to cut out the chance, but hacks down the Canadian instead.
Credit to Edwards for putting the pressure on the Minnesota backline by immediately rushing into the open space in the area. Rather than taking a touch to control, Edwards elects for a quick run into the box and is rewarded with the penalty that sets up the opener from Sebastian Giovinco.
Fast-forward to the 77th minute in a 2-2 game. The Loons fought back twice to tie the match, but Toronto would not be denied.
Jozy Altidore, coming off the bench in place of the injured Giovinco, put together a highlight-reel move that resulted in the match-winner.
Often the one on the end of service in the area, Altidore turned provider with a scintillating display of will and strength.
Operating on the wing, Jozy cuts inside and is met with a hard challenge outside the area. He goes down, but the referee plays the advantage which Altidore willingly takes to continue the attack.
An attempted clearance ricochets off of Altidore and towards the byline. Jozy gets to it and hits a left-footed cross towards the six-yard box, where Tosaint Ricketts was waiting to nod home the winner.
Game. Blouses.
via GIPHY
What They Said
Greg Vanney: “We kept having to scrap and claw and push to try and get enough to win the game in the end…There is a winning mentality, an aggressive mentality.”
