TFC vs. LA Galaxy : Match Preview

Toronto FC returns home after their 7 match unbeaten streak ended last week in DC.  John Carver's side will look to improve their form that saw them struggle to a 1-0 victory over the USL's Montreal Impact in the opening match of the Canadian Championship. 

It will be a new look side for Toronto FC, as regulars Carl Robinson, Amado Geuvara and Greg Sutton will all be away for international duty.  Laurent Robert will serve his one-match-ban for picking up a red card at the end of the match in DC.  Danny Dichio continues to nurse a groin injury, so we will have to wait and see if he gets the start.  Jeff Cunningham is likely to have another opportunity to show he still belongs in the league.  LA will be without Beckham, and Ante Jazic, both serving their respective countries.

Total TFC fearless prediction: TFC 2 LA 2

TFC Remains Unbeaten at Home: 1-0 over DCU

Danny Dichio's 7th minute mark held up as the only goal of the match. The lumbering striker outworked DC United's Devon McTavish and was able to hook the ball around goalkeeper Zach Wells, just inside the post.

A physical match that saw both clubs struggle to mount much of anything offensively, Dichio starred again as he swept in to clear a rebound off a brilliant Greg Sutton save, undoubtedly saving, what would have been, the tying goal.

Toronto FC had great difficulty winning midfield, Amado Geuvara impressed, but Ricketts and Robert were disappointing and later subbed out for Jarrod Smith and Todd Dunivant respectively as TFC focused on protecting the lead. Mo Edu and Carl Robinson were also held ineffective. Our back line was solid, and Marco Velez continues to improve. Tyrone Marshall also played one of his stronger games of the year. Brennan and Wynne were there usual dependable selves. Sutton was not tested often, but excellent when he had to be, robbing Fred in the 64th minute.

Total TFC Man of the Match: Danny Dichio.

Toronto FC Newcomer Report Card (April/May)

Amado Guevara – A – Quick, diminutive, creative player, listed as Forward but plays in more of an attacking midfield role. The player we were missing last season. Potted 2 goals vs. KC April 26.

Laurent Robert – B+ - More than adequate replacement for Ronnie O’brien. The Frenchman has provided excellent service from the wing and is a threat from free kicks. Scored on a set piece vs. RSL April 19.

Rohan Ricketts – C+ - Fast winger with good ball skills. Still seems to be looking to mesh with his teammates. Shows flashes of his ability at times in each game, but soccer is a team sport and he needs to incorporate his teammates into the play before losing the ball. Seems to tire in the 2nd half. Much better than Andy Welsh.

Jarrod Smith – C+ - Replaces Andy Boyens as the club’s token Kiwi. Has been great in limited action off the bench. Versatility seems to be the name of the game for Smith. A better version of Chris Posniak. Scored vs. LA April 13, heading home a rebound off of a free kick.

Marco Velez – C – The 2nd coming of Marco Reda? Many of us thought that at the start of the season, but has improved every match since a disastrous performance vs. LA April 13. Needs to work on his clearances; they’re too high for playable balls, tend to spiral out of control. In the wind last weekend a couple of clearances managed to end up BEHIND him. Hard worker, hope he continues to improve.

Haven’t seen enough of Kevin Harmse, or Brian Edwards to make a fair assessment.

Hopefully we’ll see Olivier Tebily, Julius James, and Pat Phelan on the list next month.

New Look TFC to Take Pitch in LA

Tons of moves since the last post, as Mo finally decides to field a real squad for the next match against LA. We all got a taste of Laurent Robert last match against DC, joining him this week will be 2004 MLS MVP Amado Guevara and former Tottenham midfielder Rohan Ricketts.

Departing to make room for these new players is Colin Samuel (about time!) the absence of which already makes us a better team!

We're looking forward to seeing the new lineup take the pitch this Sunday in LA. Hopefully by then the Total TFC team will have all of our stuff together and we can finally, truly, get underway with the 2008 MLS Season!

COME ON YOU REDS!

Ronnie O'Brien Traded

Toronto FC announced today that they have indeed traded Midfielder Ronnie O'Brien to San Jose for a 2009 1st round pick and allocation money.

"You're always reluctant to give up a player of Ronnie O'Brien's caliber, but for us to acquire a first-round pick as well as free up cap space that will enable us to address our club's biggest quality need - more quality depth - which makes this a good trade for Toronto FC," TFC manager Mo Johnston said.

Ronnie O on his way out?

Reports have Toronto FC Midfielder Ronnie O'brien on his way to San Jose for allocation money and a draft pick.

The all-star midfielder was one of TFC's strongest players last year, but was hampered with knee injuries and was limited to playing just 13 matches for the Reds.

When asked about the rumours, manager Mo Johnston had "no comment".

Link to Footy Show story.
Link to GOL TV story.

Pinto yo-yo lives!

Larry Millson at globesports.com reports that although Pinto has resigned from Braga SC, he has no intention of joining Toronto FC.

Read the article here, and let the yo-yo continue!