Toronto FC looks to keep unbeaten streak alive when Columbus rolls into town
By Mark Shannon
Toronto FC and the Columbus Crew get set to do battle in the third and final match between the two sides.
To the winner goes the spoils they say, Toronto FC will be looking to take home the Trillium Cup with their second win over the Columbus Crew. It’s a rivalry that has started since Toronto FC’s inception into the league and has carried on. Through two games thus far both teams have a win, with Toronto picking up a crucial, late 2-1 win in Columbus. The last time Toronto lost a game was to Columbus early on in the season. They’ll try to stretch their unbeaten record to 8 games on Friday.
Columbus has had an up-and-down season to start the season, but a win against Toronto and a trophy will go a long way to boosting team confidence. Columbus will be there in the playoffs at the end of the season, they’re too good of a team not to. Justin Meram has been having a hell of a season so far and along with Ola Kamara and Frederico Higuain they have formed a truly dynamics trio.
Toronto FC
Record: 7-5-1
Last Game: 1-1 Draw vs New York Red Bulls
Player To Watch For:
Victor Vazquez. Toronto will be missing their two top strikers as Jozy Altidore is suspended and Sebastian Giovinco is out injured. All eyes will be on the creative Vazquez who has been the catalyst behind a lot of Toronto’s offence. He’ll have his work cut out for him as he tries to provide good service to Jordan Hamilton and Tosaint Ricketts up front.
Why They Win:
Making the most of their opportunities. Toronto did just that the last time these two teams faced off when Tosaint Ricketts scored two late goals to give Toronto the win. They’ll need more of the same especially with Giovinco and Altidore both out for Friday’s game. Look for Jordan Hamilton to get a few chances to create some goals up-front, he has boatloads of talent.
Why They Lose:
The lack of attacking options with Giovinco and Altidore out may come back to haunt Toronto. Ricketts has stepped in nicely for Toronto in the absence of Giovinco, but they’ll have to rely on the young Jordan Hamilton to step up, like he did last summer. They can’t leave it late like they did a few weeks back in Columbus or they’ll be seeing a loss at home their first of the season.
Starting XI vs Columbus
Columbus Crew
Record: 6-1-6
Last Game: 2-1 Loss vs New England Revolution
Player To Watch For:
Justin Meram. Toronto is dealing with a bunch of injuries especially on the back line. Drew Moor is just coming back from injury, Nick Hagglund is out for some time, and Eriq Zavaleta is dealing with a bit of an issue. This is the perfect time for Meram to take over the game and attack a weaker defence to try to help get the win. He’s off to a hot start this season and that could continue tonight when Toronto and Columbus lock horns.
Why They Win:
Take advantage of an undermanned Toronto FC squad. Toronto capitalized on some sloppy defence from Columbus a couple of weeks back, maybe Columbus can return the favour tonight. Toronto’s missing Giovinco, Altidore, Hagglund, and maybe Zavaleta for this contest, so it’s the perfect time for Columbus to pounce. Justin Meram and Ola Kamara are off to flying starts and if they can break down the defence they can score some goals.
Why They Lose:
Toronto FC has a lot of depth in their lineup. Tosaint Ricketts was the man who got Toronto the win a couple of weeks ago, and he’ll be relied upon this time around again. Columbus can’t get complacent out there because Toronto will take advantage of that and pull out another victory. Playing in Toronto will always be a tough spot, so the stakes are even higher for Columbus tonight.
Starting XI vs Toronto FC
Where To Watch
Location: BMO Field
Date: Friday, May 27, 2017
Canada: TSN 1-TSN 3-TSN 4-TSN 5
USA: CW Columbus-Spectrum Sports-BCSN2