Conceding goals late is beginning to resurface as an old ugly habit for Toronto FC.
In tying FC Dallas 1-1 on Saturday at BMO Field, TFC squandered another two points in their quest for a post-season spot.
It was the manner by which they managed to drop the points which was the concern, however. After battling against a well-organized Dallas side – who at times showed some terrific ingenuity in how they played – TFC finally looked like they had solved the problem in the 61st minute.
Maicon Santos needed one touch before catching Dallas goalkeeper Kevin Hartman sleeping at the near post. Then, with the addition of Mista and Nana Attakora to the line-up, it appeared TFC was giving the fans a preview of what its strongest side will be.
The problems, however, then surfaced.
After the game, players and coaches were scrambling for answers as to why Dallas took the initiative and created chances, scoring on one to tie the game and then coming awfully close on two others. Leaving BMO with all three points almost became a reality for the Texans.
Which brings us to the phases of a game component of coaching.
Unless you are a totally dominant team over your opposition, it’s an area you simply have to take care of. Given the parity of the MLS, it is particularly important. U.S.-based coaches are excellent at managing games, so if you have the audacity to score a goal against a well-organized and technically talented team, which FC Dallas most certainly were, then expect them to react.
It was not that complicated.
They pushed numbers forward; they were more direct with their runs and passes in the final third; most importantly, they took risks. All components of the final phase of the game when a team is losing.
It was not so much about complacency or the mentality of TFC players changing the tactical approach haphazardly. It was a forced reaction to what the opposition were doing.
For every threat though there is an antidote. TFC would be wise to heed the warning from FC Dallas and figure out their solutions in this all important phase.
Player Ratings
Stefan Frei (7)
Overall another good performance from the assured goalkeeper. A great save late in the game preserved the tie for TFC. Should be livid with his defenders regarding the set piece goal.
Raivis Hscanovics (5)
Likes to get forward and did so today, even if it was just as a support outlet. An OK performance but still a weak link for the team. Early in the game his naive defending on a Dallas counter attack nearly cost a goal.
Nick Garcia (6)
Decent performance in a difficult environment. But once FC Dallas were chasing the game at 1-0 down, Garcia, along with his defensive teammates looked stressed.
Adrian Cann (6)
His output in terms of excellent performances has tapered off. In many ways it is to be expected but it should not be used as a crutch. He has looked vulnerable against the Latin style of player. David Ferreira from Dallas, as an example, was a handful.
Dan Gargan (6)
Almost gave the game away with a careless throw-in late in the game. It was naive and unnecessary but maybe sums up TFC lately. Solid in other defensive areas but the bulldozing through players in the attacking third is not working.
Maicon Santos (7)
A terrific finish to follow on from his midweek goal against Bolton. Looks like a good addition to the TFC squad. He is mature in his approach which today was as a good target player and a decoy for Barrett. He is strong at holding the ball up and then plays simple – no self indulgence, he just keeps things neat and tidy. Then, apparently, when he gets a chance he finishes. A good day at the office for the Brazilian.
Julian de Guzman (6)
A terrific feathered pass onto the foot of Santos allowed TFC to score the crucial first goal. In a way it highlights where de Guzman is at his best – facing forward with the ball at his feet. He was close on a good strike earlier in the game as he provided good support in the final third. In other aspects however it was again an awkward game for de Guzman – too many passes went astray and he was vulnerable defensively.
Amadou Sanyang (5)
A rugged but at times clumsy performance littered with exaggerated rolling around the turf. Not a mature performance from the youngster.
Nick Labrocca (7)
A decent performance verging on great but not quite getting there. Could not connect the final pass or strike on net as he would have liked. Solid work rate once again.
Dwayne DeRosario (6)
A better performance from Dwayne in a more restrictive wide role. It is the dilemma for Preki. Keeping him in a flank position especially in a 4-4-2 formation restricts Dwayne’s ability to create and roam freely. He strayed once in a while out of his position which in a set 4-4-2 can be costly.
Chad Barrett (6)
Great work ethic and feisty as ever but quiet on the attacking side of things. A couple of weak efforts one in each half lead to disappointing ends. The header late on he should have done better with.
Substitutions
Nana Attakora (NS)
Jacob Peterson (NS)
Mista (NS)
