Mar 18, 2017; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps forward Fredy Montero (12) kicks the ball toward the net of Toronto FC goalkeeper Alex Bono (25) during the second half at BC Place. The Toronto FC won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /
Mar 18, 2017; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Brek Shea (20) receives a red card during the second half against the Toronto FC at BC Place. The Toronto FC won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /
3 Takeaways
4-2-3-1 doesn’t work. Robinson is obviously limited by his available personnel, but it’s become obvious time and time again that 4-2-3-1 does not work with no creative players in central midfield. Laba or Russell Teibert would win the ball back. They would then pass back to Parker or Waston, who would pass back to Richey. The goalkeeper would then launch a long, floating ball looking for Shea or Montero. TFC would then recover the ball. This sequence of play was repeated over and over again. These tactics are ineffectual, and a waste of Montero’s talents.
Discipline is still lacking. The Whitecaps have now shipped five goals this season in the league. All five goals came after going down to ten men. Discipline continues to be a huge issue with this team. In his last two matches, Brek Shea has received a yellow card for a blatant dive and a red card for talking back to the referee. So far, he has shown no sign of earning his Designated Player tag.
Richey solid in debut. After Paolo Tornaghi’s shaky performance replacing David Ousted last weekend, Spencer Richey was drafted in to make his MLS debut. Richey looked understandably nervous, and a little uncertain commanding his box. However, he made a good save from Justin Morrow and could not be faulted for either goal. Tornaghi may have just seen himself slip to third choice.
