TORONTO– The Toronto FC homecoming did not disappoint. After over a month on the road, the Reds came back to BMO Field defeating the Colorado Rapids 3-2.
With goals scored by Tsubasa Endoh (8′) and Alejandro Pouzelo (13′), TFC dictated the possession and dominated from start to finish. Right out of the gate, Greg Vanney‘s TFC squad attack with pace and conviction. Their passing did not allow Colorado to have any time in space. And their counter-attack was punishing the Rapids defense, coming out of their own end with ease.
Endoh got the scoring off for TFC, connecting on his strike after a pass from midfielder Richie Laryea. Then, after the Reds took a penalty, attacker Alejandro Pouzelo converted on the penalty kick.
Toronto FC goalkeeper Quentin Westberg was busy for moments of the match. The Rapids would get one back, with defender Keegan Rosenberry converting on his first goal of the season.
Toronto FC Continues Sustained Success
But the pivotal moment came late in the first half, when Westberg tripped a Rapids attacker, resulting in a penalty kick. In typical Westberg fashion, he redeemed himself by denying the penalty kick to remain TFC in the lead.
The second half became a chippy affair. Both teams displayed their physicality and the referees were incredibly busy with lots of fouls called and calming the players down. But it was Colorado that played with desperation, given their playoff chances were in the balance. Sam Nicholson in the 62nd minute split the Toronto FC defense to put it past Westberg to tie the game at 2.
But in the 70th minute, Toronto FC showcased tremendous resiliency. Erickson Gallardo crossed the ball into the box to Jonathan Osorio, converting on the strike to give Toronto FC a 3-2 lead.
With the victory, Toronto FC has 48 points. This moves them into a tie for third place in the MLS East Standings with Atlanta United. Toronto FC’s 5-0-4 record in their last nine games is a sign that the team is rounding into form with the postseason approaching.
