THE PENALTY AREA

TFC on paper is better than UNAM Pumas?

2011-09-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

My dear brother-in-law and blogger on this site, Mike, officially went off the deep end last night. Mike has been having a long temper tantrum about MLSE and how they have ruined Toronto FC. He derides most every move they make and every result they achieve. Once a season ticket holder, he has become an embittered old man hating everything TFC.

Last night, following the 1-1 draw between TFC and UNAM Pumas, we exchanged text messages. We bitched about the horrible Setanta Sports broadcast (what was up with that, Setanta?) and he stated (again) that they (MLSE) need to fix the team. I pointed out that I wasn't disappointed in the draw and that TFC had put forth a good effort. "No shame in drawing a better team.", I said. Mike replied with "Fuck that, on paper we are better. Shame."

As you can imagine, dear reader (literally, probably only one reader), this blew my mind. This morning, Mike continued, suggesting I look up who is on their team, compare it to who we have, then accused me of being a typical Leaf fan, accepting mediocre teams. There is some truth in this - I am a Leaf fan, and probably too easily accept mediocrity. However, I felt I needed to address Mike's delusions in-depth.

So let's take a look at UNAM Pumas. They are ranked #7 in CONCACAF and #179 in the world by Oosterpark. They have produced dozens of Mexican international players, a country that is currently ranked #20 by FIFA and has been as high as #5. 6 of their current players have recently played for the national team. They have won the Mexican league 7 times, including the Clausura 2011. They have been CONCACAF champions 3 times. They have been the champions of a now-defunct North and South American competition once. The Mexican league itself is ranked #12 in the world by IFFHS.

Our heroes Toronto FC, are not ranked by Oosterpark. The top ranked MLS team as of the end of 2010 was D.C. United, at #12 in CONCACAF and #306 in the world. As we know, D.C. United now sucks, and I'm sure their 2010 ranking is a result of past successes. Hey - there's the Puerto Rico Islanders at #1,736 in the world - we fall somewhere below them. Toronto FC currently features Canadian internationals Julian de Guzman and Terry Dunfield (and injured Adrian Cann), Jamaican international Ryan Johnson, Curacao international Javier Martina and Guadeloupe stalwart Eddy Viator. Comparing this to Mexico's #20 ranking, we see Jamaica at #45, #87 Canada, #178 Curacao and Guadeloupe not ranked. Toronto has won the MLS... Never, and never even made the playoffs. They haven't advanced out of the CONCACAF Champions League group stages. MLS is ranked #52 in the world by IFFHS - but is now second in CONCACAF, having passed the Costa Rican league!

Now, I don't believe that we should be thrilled that Toronto FC only managed to draw UNAM Pumas. I would have been ecstatic with a victory. But to claim that Toronto FC is better on paper and should have won is so ludicrous that I am beginning to question Mike's sanity.

Oh Greg..

2011-06-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say after watching this clip that I am glad Greg Sutton is not with Toronto anymore. Nothing short of embarrassing here. He absolutely looks as though he would fit into Toronto FC current system. Lack of sensibility and ball handling skills makes him a perfect fit. What a mess.

Roger Levesque had a great goal celebration. At this point though I would like it if Toronto could just score.

SMILES!

Canadian Keeper Scores from the other side of the pitch!

2011-06-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

What can only be described as a major embarrassment to England. Canada scored an absolute gem. The Canadian Goalkeeper Quillan Roberts evened up the score at 2-2 in the 86th minute from the Canadian side of the pitch! If I find a better clip today i will post it.
LOL

Priceless.

Canada vs. Ecuador Friendly Report

2011-06-02T13:00:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of attending the Canada vs. Ecuador men's friendly at BMO Field last night with a vocal crowd of Canadian supporters. Unfortunately, the dirty, diving Ecuadoreans had more supporters so the stadium looked mostly like a sea of yellow jerseys.

Canada was a bit lucky to steal a draw, after Julian De Guzman, the crappiest designated player in MLS history (next to Mista) took a quick free quick and caught the dirty Ecuadoreans busy whining at the referee. One Tosaint Ricketts goal later, it was a 2-2 draw and the Canadian supporters could feel free to hurl nasty swear words at the opposing fans.

Attiba Hutchinson is great. He was all over the field and had a huge impact. I described him as a "good version of De Guzman" but that's probably not doing Hutchinson justice. Simeon Jackson looked dangerous and Terry Dunfield scored a brilliant opening goal for Canada. The keeper, Mirlo Borjan (or whatever the hell his name is) looked fantastic, other than when he stared sadly at the 2nd Ecuador goal flying into the net without actually moving.

Shout out to the guy in front of us who spit all over the place when he shouted - the wind carried it right back into our faces, which was awesome. Props to the supporters who chanted and danced the whole time. It was nice to see an energetic base of support for the team.

Thursday June 2nd 2011

2011-06-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

Thursday June 2nd 2011

Afternoon Links

National Post - Toronto FC head coach Aron Winter needs to banish haughty talk of rebuilding and patience and replace it all with the truth:

Toronto Sun - Canada came away with a lucky 2-2 draw vs. Ecuador at BMO Field on Wednesday night

MLS - 50/50 Gordon may play; The Toronto FC forward, who has been out with a groin injury, trained with the team on Tuesday at Cherry Beach.

The Canadian Press - Adrian Cann will miss the remainder of Toronto FC's season after the defender suffered a knee injury during training Tuesday. "I can confirm that Adrian has torn his ACL and will miss the rest of the season," said Toronto FC Head Coach

Monday's Links

2011-05-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Whitecaps well rested for this weeks Nutrilite championship game vs. Toronto FC.

Goalkeeper Jay Nolly, shown in action recently, says his team knows it has to score against Toronto FC on Wednesday.

Windsor Stars fell 5-2 to Toronto FC

Windsor fell 5-2 to Toronto FC Academy Saturday, but put up a much better effort 24 hours later in losing a heartbreaker 1-0 to the defending CSL champion Brantford Galaxy.

MLS Recap 2011: Colorado Rapids 0 - Toronto FC 0

Toronto remains in 15^th place, only two points out of a playoff spot. What matters, besides the “golden point”, is how confident this team is growing.

Toronto get break as de Guzman is only Canada call

Toronto FC will need to do without the services of Designated Player Julian de Guzman for most of June, after the midfielder accepted the call for Canada to play in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

IM BACK!!

2011-05-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

Hey, I have been gone (from the blog) for a while now I’m back. I will try my best to keep the blog up to date. It’s been a little tough lately only because well I am getting tired of following a team that is potentially in its fifth losing season. Obviously would like to watch a winning team. Truly I believe that the MLSE big wigs are the root of the problem. Anyways. In an effort to stay positive and away from the negative. I will try posting daily links to soccer and mostly Toronto FC related links with a brief thought on the link.

cheers.

Best You Tube Video discovery so far!! AWESOME!

2010-11-10T07:16:00.001-08:00

SPAIN!!!

2010-07-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

The Spanish U-19's have been doing some very entertaining stuff this year. I love this free kick.

Icelandic fishing Celebration!

2010-07-27T07:24:00.000-07:00

Icelandic side Stjarnan with an awesome goal celebration.

Mista

2010-07-06T07:48:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE
Toronto FC announced Tuesday that Spanish forward Miguel Angel Ferrer Martinez “Mista” has signed with the club. Mista’s contract will run through to the end of the 2010 MLS season. As per team and league rules financial details were not released.
“Mista adds a wealth of experience to our team,” said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. “He’s played at Real Madrid, Valencia CF, and Deportivo La Coruna which are all world class clubs. Mista is a different type of player from what we have and we are excited to get him in the lineup after July 15.”
Mista, 31, joins Toronto FC after spending his entire career in Spain playing almost entirely in The Primera Division (La Liga). The forward spent the 2008-2010 seasons with Deportivo La Coruna, where he was a teammate of current Toronto FC midfielder Julian de Guzman. Mista’s most successful seasons in La Liga came while he was a member of Valencia from 2001-2006 when he made 142 appearances, scoring 40 goals. He won two Spanish league titles (2001-02, 2003-04) during that time and was a member of the 2004 UEFA Cup winning squad where he scored the second goal in a 2-0 victory over Olympique de Marseille of France. By winning that title Valencia went on to compete in the UEFA Super Cup where Valencia CF defeated FC Porto of Portugal 2-0.
Mista began his career under current Inter Milan boss and former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez at Real Madrid where he spent three seasons before moving on to Tenerife where he helped that club gain promotion into the first division.
Internationally, he made his debut for the Spain on March 26, 2005 in a 3-0 friendly win over China and has two caps with the senior squad. He also was a member of the Spanish U17, U18 and U21 sides.
Due to International Transfer Rules, Mista will not be available for selection until after the July 15 transfer window opens.

Bendtner colors his socks vs Japan.

2010-06-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

At the 4th minute in Thursday's match Denmark Vs. Japan. Nicklas Bendtner was sent to the sidelines by the ref to color in his socks!! Apparently the ref did not like Bendtner's stylish white tape that was just showing above his shoe line. No worry's the Denmark bench had a red marker on hand to correct the mistake. GAME ON!!

France is gone... Good ridance!

2010-06-24T09:39:00.001-07:00

I wish I found this earlier... I'm just very happy that France is out!.. tee hee

Senderos AWESOMENESS!!

2010-06-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wicked tackle on his own teammate! AND he sprained his ankle in the process he will miss the next 2 games. wow

Woody Harrelson takes Penalty Kick

2010-06-08T08:50:00.000-07:00

Looks like a nifty team they put together for a charity match at Old Trafford in Manchester. Woody was playing with the likes of Henrik Larsson, Mike Myers, and Zinedine Zidane in front of 65,000 people. No pressure man. In the video below looks like Mike Myers was giving him tips on taking the penalty.

World cup starts FRIDAY!!!!

2010-06-06T17:14:00.001-07:00

I still don't know who I will cheer for this world cup. So far I am just ABE!!

Pirès thinks Philly is a shitty town

2010-05-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

Robert Pirès thinks Philly is a shitty place to live. That is AWESOME! He wont play on Philly cause it's not nice. He would rather live in a nice place like Henry in New York. WOW. So I wonder how Toronto holds up? I wonder what cities meet his standards other than New York? maybe San Jose, Seattle, and L.A.

Anyways I read the following at the MLS website.

NEW YORK – Former French World Cup winner Robert Pirès, who was being pursued by the Philadelphia Union as a Designated Player, has come out publicly and stated that he will not be joining the MLS expansion club because the city’s not nice enough.
“[Philadelphia] is not very appealing to me,” the Frenchman told L’Equipe. “I don’t want to be difficult, but if I’m leaving to take my family far away, I prefer that it’s in a beautiful city.”
Making the matter worse for Philly fans is what Pirès had to say about the arrival of Thierry Henry in New York with the Red Bulls.
“I hope for him that he can go out there,” Pirès said of his former Arsenal teammate. “Now that’s a beautiful city.”
The 36-year-old told the French sports daily that he now waiting for other proposals and, if he does not receive any, he’s content to hang his boots. His preference, however, would be to take on one more challenge, possibly with a club in France.
Spanish club Villarreal decided not to renew his contract after the 2009-2010 European season although Pirès says that he would have wanted to stay.

Spurs midfielder Jamie O'Hara ponders playing for Republic of Ireland

2010-05-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

I love this..

I hope Jamie plays for the Republic but it doesnt change the fact that Henry is a dirty cheater.

Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara could ditch England and choose to play for the Republic of Ireland at international level.
O'Hara, who spent last season on loan at Portsmouth and played in the club's 1-0 FA Cup final defeat to Chelsea on Saturday, is expected to make a decision on his international future this summer.
The 23-year-old, who qualifies for Ireland through his grandparents, has played for England at Under 21 level but has never been selected for the senior squad.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1279411/Spurs-midfielder-Jamie-OHara-ponders-Ireland-switch.html?ITO=1490#ixzz0oOF4Z0NU

17 year old to retire.. shitty..

2010-05-17T10:01:00.001-07:00

Just read this press release. It is a bit of a bummer. This guy found out about a heart condition from team doctors. Now he needs to retire and he will be honored with a coin toss. So shitty.

PRESS RELEASE
Retirements are often a time of reflection on a professional’s long and storied career. It is rare the word “retirement” is attached to a player at such a young age, but such is the case with Toronto FC defender Zachary Herold. The club announced Monday that the 17 year old Generation Adidas product has had to retire from the game of soccer.
Herold suffers from the condition Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) – which causes abnormal thickening of a part of the heart muscle. With this condition, under strenuous exercise, there is a risk of developing a potentially fatal irregular heart rhythm, or arrhythmia. Unfortunately the only way to reduce this risk is to put significant life-long restrictions on exercise.
On Saturday, May 22 the team will honour the 2010 MLS SuperDraft pick in a ceremonial coin toss before the 1 p.m. ET kick-off against the New England Revolution at BMO Field.
“Early in pre-season we did medical’s on all our players, and obviously our doctor, Ira Smith, was concerned with some of Zac’s results,” said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. “From there he then began a series of tests with a variety of doctors, in both Canada and the U.S. Zac’s health was first and foremost in this process. Our hearts go out to Zac and his family; it’s a very difficult situation. We felt it was the right thing to do by honouring him in front of our fans, and give them a chance to show their support.”
As part of Toronto FC’s screening procedures, an electrocardiogram (otherwise known as ECG or EKG) is done on all players. There are certain patterns that are recognized as potential problems for athletes, and it is at that point that cardiologists are consulted. In Herold’s case, several experts in both Canada and the U.S. were consulted and a variety of tests were performed to properly and accurately diagnose this condition.
“Announcing my retirement from soccer at this age is something I never, ever thought would happen to me,” said Zac Herold. ”I am grateful to Dr. Smith, and all the specialists I’ve seen over the last few months – this news was very hard to take but I know it’s the best decision for me and my health. My parents have been with me every step of the way, and it means so much to me that I’m able to “retire” as a Toronto FC player. The whole team has been wonderful to me and my family and although it’ll be a tough day, I’m looking forward to seeing everyone on the 22^nd”
“The support we have received at this very difficult time has been more than we could have ever imagined,” said Zac’s mother, Beth Inniss. “We want to thank the Wasserman Media Group, particularly Aaron Maines and Richard Motzkin. All of the doctors, especially, Dr. Ira Smith and Dr. Christine Lawless, and to the staff at Toronto FC. Special mention to Mo Johnston and Preki, I have never felt such support from a group of people as I have in the past three months. You have all stood by Zac, and lifted him up. I cannot thank everyone enough.”
Herold was drafted in the 2^nd Round, 24^th overall on January 14 in the 2010 MLS SuperDraft that was held in Philadelphia. The defender was a fixture with the U.S. U-17 MNT and made 15 appearances, 13 of those as a starter. Herold was also part of the U-14 and U-15 teams before enrolling in the U.S. U-17 Residency Program in the fall of 2007.

Toronto FC to host Bolton

2010-05-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

This is the big news today. Big deal. I'm getting very tired of friendly games that mean absolutely nothing in the middle of the season.

Toronto FC to host Bolton of England's Premier League in Carlsberg Cup

By The Associated Press (CP) – 20 minutes ago

TORONTO — Toronto FC will host English Premier League club Bolton Wanderers on July 21 in Toronto's annual Carlsberg Cup.
Bolton boasts the highest number of seasons in England's top flight, this past season being No. 71.
The Wanderers, which finished 14th in the Premiership this past season, will announce their roster for the friendly at a later date.
Toronto hosted River Plate of Argentina last season, which the visitors won 4-3 on penalties.
The Philadelphia Union, meanwhile, will host Scotland's Glasgow Celtic at PPL Park on July 14 in place of an exhibition against Spain's Valencia that had been announced in March.
Union president Tom Veit said Tuesday that Valencia and its promoter "backed out of the agreement that was reached with the Union and other MLS teams."

World Cup Pepsi Ad

2010-05-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

World cup commercials.. I love them.

BMO tightened security

2010-05-04T11:40:00.000-07:00

This is from a post on the RPB website it was posted by someone in the TFC front office:

It was only a matter of time until we saw this coming. I want you to know that this is due to some people in the southwest corner who cannot keep their heads during a game. South east and north west corners generally get it. The display at the beginning of the Montreal game was great and will still be allowed.

But as a result of the numpty at the Seattle game (and previous pattern of stuff getting tossed) our staff at BMO Field will be instructed to have zero tolerance for items being thrown during the game to impact play. Mainly this is corner kicks but any other time in-game or at players as well.

Goal celebrations, kick-off displays are still cool.

here's the official word:
OBJECTS THROWN ONTO THE FIELD
From today’s game forward, there will be tightened security with regards to objects being thrown onto the pitch at BMO Field. Unfortunately, a bottle was thrown at one of the opposing players during our home match against Seattle Sounders and stadium officials will be strictly enforcing a policy that anyone seen throwing an object onto the pitch will be ejected from the stadium (streamers can still be thrown in celebration as long as they don’t impact the play). We want to keep the great atmosphere at BMO Field but also need to ensure the safety of other supporters and players during matches.

Its pretty self explanatory. I guess it was only a matter of time before some jack ass ruins the fun for everyone else. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....

Here is the Seattle "incident"

Roberto Brown has been suspended

2010-04-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE
MONTREAL – The Montreal Impact announced Friday that forward Roberto Brown has been suspended for a period yet to be determined, following his gesture Wednesday during the match against Toronto FC, in the Nutrilite Canadian Championship.Brown was ejected from the game at the 35th minute, after hitting Toronto FC defender Nick Garcia in the face.
“Roberto is an intense athlete, an excellent person and an important player on our roster, but his gesture is unacceptable,” declared Impact head coach Marc Dos Santos. “Roberto left his teammates down during the game Wednesday. We took this decision following discussions with the entire technical staff.”
“From a club perspective, his gesture is not tolerated and it stands far from our sportsmanship values,” declared technical director Nick De Santis. “I hope he will understand the seriousness of his behaviour because it’s not the first time he acts this way.”
The duration of the suspension is undetermined given that the club is waiting for the discipline report from the Canadian Soccer Association.

Awesome.. Kansas screws up less than 6 inches from GOAL!!

2010-04-26T11:22:00.000-07:00

Just fanning over the MLS soccer news and I came across this little doozie...(is that how its spelled?) Buddy Hand balls it on the goal line!! How bad do you have to suck to have that happen to you?

Nick Garcia could have scored that goal... I think after a gaffe like that your manager should be subbing you out AND there should be a paper bag at the sideline waiting for you to stick your head into. WOW. Sometimes I think things like "Man how could Chad miss that?". Now instead of Barretting the ball. I think its going to be called a Kamara!

Gerba Lashes out.. nice

2010-04-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

I really did not like the way TFC handled Ali Gerba. I felt like he was never given a real chance to prove himself with the team. Or maybe I feel like he never really had a solid chance to prove himself to the fans. It was a shame they way TFC let him go. In fact it is a real shame the way they handle all the players on the team.

Brian Edwards was released the day before the first game. Greg Sutton once a hero in Toronto, just let go like a fart in the wind. I felt Danny Dichio was forced into retirement. Alecko Eskandarian had a player blog on the TFC official website and he was supposed to be the go to guy for the team. He wore the red with pride and was brushed away with no thought at all. Jeff Cunningham struggled to find his way with the team and was forced out. Tébily came to play with us but was forced out with an injury... or was he? Rohan Ricketts was outspoken and forced out of town. Beloved Carl Robinson was shown no respect just the door. The list goes on and on and on. Who knows what the real story is with Jimmy Brennan. It was nice to see this interview yesterday Kristian Jack from "The Score" (footy blog) had with Gerba.

No holds barred. Unfortunately that wont change Ali's situation but it may shake up the front office in Toronto. There is a valuable lesson to be learned here for MLSE. Start treating the players with respect. There is NOT an never ending supply of these guys and its only a matter of time before players around the world realize there time would be spent better with another team.

Kansas City's Ryan Smith

2010-04-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

There really should be better refing in the MLS. I am still on the fence as to whether or not the Referee dealt with this situation properly. Smith ended up playing a big part in the only goal in this game.

Mo... tee heee

2010-04-17T16:00:00.000-07:00

I was paruzzing Youtube vids last night. I found a nice little video of Mo Johnston scoring goals for Celtic.

Mo must go signs

2010-04-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

I didn't notice it when i was at the game but I guess a few fellas wanted to express to Mo what they think of him. Some signs were Confiscated and it looks like Paul Bierne (Toronto FC’s senior director of business operations) who frequents the RPB forums has admitted to the mistake. The Toronto Sun has a story about it this morning in the paper.

Story can be found below

Toronto FC is apologetic after angry fans filled the Internet message boards Thursday night and Friday over banners critical of Mo Johnston that were confiscated at the entrance gates.

“Mo must go” — a call for the dismissal of director of soccer Mo Johnston, was a popular theme.

read more here

Philly keeper Chris Seitz

2010-04-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

Just to prove my point a little bit further about the Philly keeper Chris Seitz. I searched a wee bit on the Google. I came up with this little diddy its really only a week old the game was played on April the 10th against DC United. At the 18 second mark I am sure the broadcaster is saying " He is so crafty" referring to Moreno but I am sure he meant to say "He is so Crappy" referring to Seitz. TFC should have taken this fella for more then 2 goals.

TFC in six minutes

2010-04-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

Toronto FC won the home opener last night.. yeeehaaa... I still think this team needs a lot of work. They played sub-par football against an undermanned expansion team. They had more than an entire half were they played against 10 men. To top it off the Philly keeper is brutal. I know they won the game but they should have embarrassed a team like that. Especially after the embarrassing loss in Foxboro against the Revolution. I was truly humiliated to drive 10 hours to watch the Boston Massacre. As a fan I want redemption!

Toronto Add's Defenders.. but Team is still shitty

2010-04-13T06:40:00.001-07:00

The Canadian Press TORONTO — Toronto FC has signed a pair of defenders in Canadian Adrian Cann and Russian Maksim Usanov.
Cann, 29, has spent the last two seasons in the Danish league with Esberg FB. Prior to that he played for the Vancouver Whitecaps and Montreal Impact.
Drafted 16th overall in the 2004 MLS SuperDraft by the Colorado Rapids, he made two appearances for Colorado before being released midway through his first MLS season.
"We're delighted to complete the signing of another Canadian international," Mo Johnston, Toronto's director of soccer, said in a statement Monday. "Adrian will add to our backline with his height and his strength, so we're looking forward to seeing what he can do on the field for us.
"Max is another good young signing for us at the back. He attacks well and defends well."
The 25-year-old Usanov, who is awaiting a Canadian work permit, was most recently with FC Krasnodar in Russia. Prior to that he played in Latvia for FC Skonto.
Toronto FC, 0-2 after two losses on the road, play their home opener Thursday against the fledgling Philadelphia Union.

Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew. eeeek

2010-03-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Wow. First week Columbus Crew. Garcia has proved to us once again he stinks. Wynne would have been nice. good thing we traded him. ARGH.. Whats the deal with White? PASS the ball man!

anyways.

Here it is in Six minutes.

Toronto FC has new Away Kits

2010-03-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

Surprise! We may have no players left on the team but at least we have a new kit.

Goalie Goal!

2010-03-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Sweet goal from a goalie. Darío Capogrosso scores from 70 meters out. I thought this kinda stuff only happened in video games.

Robo in NewYork

2010-03-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

It's a nice sunny day today. To bad I am cooped up in this office.

I was sifting thru the TFC news today and noticed FINALLY Robo is gone. TFC fans have been pestered with the news of Robinson leaving for some time now. This guy (ME) is just glad it finally happened. I would like to see all the puzzle pieces put into place before the season starts. How Robinson left is another issue. Different sites are reporting different things. The New York Post is reporting that Robinson was traded to NY Red Bulls for 2011 draft picks. 2011 draft picks seems a little step (TEE HEE HEE). The CBC website is reporting that Carl was released and New York has him on trial. The TFC site is even more vague with a TFC TV bit interviewing Preki on the situation. You would figure he would have his shit together on the situation before being asked by TFC tv questions like that.

Either way Robo deserved a little bit more respect from the club. The situation was handled with about as much tact as they had with our beloved Danny Dichio. I hope the TFC faithful show him a little bit (just a little not to much) appreciation when he returns to play against us in August.

TFC in Disney!

2010-02-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

I am a little reluctant to post any news lately as the MLS and the players union STILL have not reached an agreement (unless i'm oblivious and missed the news.)

Anyways thought I would share this with you from the TFC website. I missed the game last night but TFC turned out a win vs. Dallas. The Reds only goal came from the trialist Vincent Kayizzi. The goal looks good I think Barrett put in the same situation may have blasted it over or beside the net. I wonder if Kayizzi can do this in the regular season?.

Oh and whats with the porn music in these videos? LOL.

HOLY SHIT!!

2010-02-18T07:23:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it! This guy has impacted a team I support AGAIN!! (Arsenal this time) And he is going to be in the world cup! I really hope he ref's all of England and Frances games. LOL. I know its impossible but it is nice to dream.

Last night in Portugal he really gave Porto the advantage when he let them take a quick indirect kick. He was out of position and obstructed Sol Campbell from defending the kick. I guess it was only a matter of time before Arsenal got burned by one of these. Henry was pretty good at them. I just hate the fact that it had to be Martin Hansson the Sweddish Douche that was involved. The truth of the whole matter is. Arsenal needs a new keeper BADLY!

Last Nights Game Highlights.

FC Porto v Arsenal

TFC have packed there bags

2010-02-08T08:38:00.000-08:00

Today TFC is headed south for training. They kick off a 10 day mini camp for there trialists. From what I understand it sounds like if the trialist does well he will not make the team but if he plays OK then we can sign him to a mediocre contract. That sucks balls. Apparently TFC are pretty much out of allocation money and unless the Labor disputes between the players and the MLS changes that. WE ARE SCREWED. :)

Sounds like Serioux is not coming back... Dave mentioned this last year, tee hee. Looks like the nail was smacked right on the head!

Carl Robinson's contract is in jeopardy.

Dwayne Derosario's future does not look good. He is apparently pissed that he is not a DP.

Chad Barrett is injured.

should be interesting season. Not much to say until they actually start training and get there shit together.

BULLSHIT!!

2010-02-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

This is friggin ridiculous. This definitely causes credibility issues at the upcoming world cup. This douche bag referee Martin Hansson was named one of the 30 referee's for this summers 2010 world cup. He is a BASKETBALL REF!!!! IT WAS A HANDBALL YOU DICK! I admit I am still trying to recover from his missed call in Paris just a short while ago. I still need to find a team to support for this summers tourney. This just makes my decision really difficult. How can I watch an event were I KNOW they have not picked the right officials. The whole process stinks. It gives me the feeling that this shit is rigged. ARGH! THIS MAKES ME SO MAD!!

anyways you can read on here...

Disney!! yah and signed midfielder Jacob Peterson

2010-01-21T10:56:00.000-08:00

I'm pumped looks like TFC are going to Disney this year. I was just reading on the MLS website. I'm saving my pennies! hopefully they do it again next season. I drove past this complex about 4 years ago and it looked pretty desolate. its nice to see they are finally putting it to use! woo hoo soccer.

The Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC will get an early taste of MLS competition when the four clubs compete in the inaugural Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

The tournament, which kicks off the re-launch of the complex and is part of the 2010 ESPN The Weekend, begins on Thursday, Feb. 25, with the Dynamo taking on the Red Bulls at 6 p.m. ET, followed by a clash between Dallas and Toronto at 8:30 p.m. ET. The winners will meet in the championship game on Saturday, Feb. 27, with the losers of the opening matches meeting in a third-place game earlier in the day.

ALSO today TFC have announced the signing of a midfielder. Not sure they need another midfielder... UNLESS Mo is planning a trade. Who is he thinking of getting rid of? Anyways pur new midfielder is Jacob Peterson he was drafted a few seasons ago and has started to make an impact in the MLS last season before being struck down by the injury bug. I read most of this on the CBC website.

Toronto FC signed midfielder Jacob Peterson from the Colorado Rapids on Thursday, the team announced in a release.

Peterson, 23, was Colorado's first-round draft pick in 2006. He broke through in 2009 when he appeared in 23 games for the club, making 12 starts and tallying two goals and two assists. He missed the last month of the '09 campaign because of injury.

MLS strike...Ibrahim Saied...and some NikeSoccer Juve commercial.

2010-01-20T06:07:00.000-08:00

No word on the MLS labor dispute yet. Makes me kinda angry that TFC has not sent me any updates. As a season ticket holder I feel I have the right to know what the F is going on. I want to plan a road trip this year and can't make any decisions on hotels or flights cause I don't want to pay if there is going to be no game!! ARGH!

Some Dude named Ibrahim Saied an Egyptian central defender is set to join Toronto FC this season. I read a little blurb on IMscouting.com He needs to pass a physical still. Once upon a time he played for Everton. I guess that means he is shit and is trying to revive his dead career. I really hope he is good. I want a reason to cheer for the team!

Also I watched the Nikesoccer presents master accuracy video on youtube this morning. Not much to it other than I would like TFC to send all our strikers to the thing. We need accuracy man!

Nils Binstock is getting a shot to be a hometown Red

2010-01-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Nils Binstock is some local dude keeping his fingers crossed that TFC keeps 3 roster spots open for keepers this season. I love TFC adding Local or Canadian players to the team and I hope this kid makes it. If he does make it he better not be shit!! That will just piss me off.

Here is the article from the Toronto Sun..

Nils Binstock is getting a shot to be a hometown Red.

The Burlington netminder just got an invite to Toronto FC's goalkeeping combine, where he will try to win at least a spot on the training-camp roster. The combine goes Jan. 25-26 at Lamport Stadium.

"I received an e-mail from (TFC goalkeeping coach) Mike Toshack and he invited me out," Binstock said.

"The team had been following my progress for the past couple of years ... I don't know any of the other four or five 'keepers who will be invited out, but I think they could offer a contract to the best one."

And Binstock has given Toshack a lot to think about. In his final NCAA season at Iona College, he posted a stellar 0.66 GAA and a superb .849 GAA.

The combine will run before the scheduled opening of TFC's regular training camp and the Jan. 31 expiry of the current collective bargaining agreement between MLS and its players'union.

If there is no progress in talks, the owners are in position to lock out the players on Feb. 1.

STRONG AT GOAL

Even though TFC is stronger in goal than it is at any other position, with rookie-of-the-year Stefan Frei at No. 1 and Brian Edwards at backup, Binstock is hopeful that the Reds will keep three 'keepers in 2010. Once again, without a CBA in place, it's hard to guess what kind of roster limits will exist in 2010.

"I think they are going to be carrying three," Binstock said. "Last year, they ran into problems when Frei got hurt and Edwards had to jump in, and there was no back-up there. I know that D.C. United had a situation where both keepers were out and they needed an emergency replacement."

But, even if Binstock doesn't stick, the former Toronto Lynx and AB Copenhagen 'keeper knows getting this tryout will help him to get more trials at other clubs.

"I think it's a definite positive; it's a trial in a pro atmosphere," he said. "It still looks good on a resume. Toronto FC is my hometown team. If things don't work out, I want them to succeed, regardless."

Toronto FC home opener moved to April 15

2010-01-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

BLAH BLAH BLAH... This story seems to be everywhere right now.

Here it is from the Toronto Star

Toronto FC is going to get a little southern exposure on its new grass field.

The Major League Soccer club announced Wednesday that the team's home-opener in mid-April is being moved from Saturday afternoon to Thursday night in order to accommodate a national broadcast in the United States on ESPN2.

TFC will now play the expansion Philadelphia Union at 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 15.

The game will be the official debut of the grass pitch at BMO Field.

Club owner Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment is now in the midst of a $3.5 million conversion of the city-owned stadium from artificial Field Turf to Kentucky bluegrass.

The new field, complete with its elaborate drainage and heating system, is to be ready for the home opener.

TFC is scheduled to kick off its fourth MLS season Saturday, March 27 in Columbus, Ohio against the Crew.

But with the contract between the league and its players union set to expire on Jan. 31, there are questions whether the season will be marred by a strike or lockout.

Both sides are refusing to talk publicly but reports are that the negotiations are not going well despite months of talks and the league may lock out the players Feb. 1.

TFC going Teal?

2010-01-11T09:54:00.000-08:00

Well the MLS superdraft is coming up soon. As usual I do not know who any of the college players are that are entering the draft. EXCEPT Teal Bunbury!! He is the the son of former Canadian International Alex Bunbury. I am hoping TFC try to move up the draftand get him. It would be nice to have another strong Canadian player on the team.

There was an article in the Toronto Sun a few days ago. Here is most of it.

What will he do this time?

Toronto FC director of soccer Mo Johnston is known as a mover and shaker in Major League Soccer circles, always good to make a deal.

And Thursday's MLS SuperDraft should be no different, despite TFC not having a first-round draft pick and having only two picks in the draft (Nos. 24 and 53).

"I've actually been very quiet so far," Johnston said.

The silence won't last long.

"I'm confident we'll be able to get some things done over the next six or seven days," he said. "This year it's all about getting the right guy and the priority is to move up in the draft."

Johnston's job is that much more difficult, not having any American roster spots available. And using an international roster spot on an American drafted college player doesn't make sense for the club.

EXPECT MOVES

Translation: Expect some player movement from Johnston.

Johnston also acknowledged he's in on-going talks with various clubs and players, and now that the MLS player combine is over, the real action begins.

What Johnston will be able to get done is unclear.

While he acknowledges this year's draft is about "certain positions", it's more about asset management. Moving up to take a player of interest for another team, then turning that player into another asset coming back to the club seems like the most logical move.

And from the sounds of it, this is what new head coach Preki Radosavljevic would prefer.

Preki seems less than impressed with the roster. He admits the team is a work in progress. But unlike his former club Chivas, TFC ownership has afforded Johnston ample resources to bring in players.

"Preki has got his eye on a couple of targets he wanted while at Chivas and wasn't able to bring in. We've talked about it and I think I can get something done," Johnston said.

This approach benefits Preki in putting together a team in his own mold while adding some much-needed MLS experience to the roster.

If Johnston elects to move up in the draft and to keep the pick, it could also signal his interest in Teal Bunbury -- this year's Mac Hermann Trophy winner as the NCAA'S top player.

Bunbury's name resonates with Canadian soccer fans, as the son of former Canadian International Alex. Bunbury proved his worth as a dynamic goal-scorer this past season, leading his Akron Zips to an undefeated regular season and then taking them all the way to the national final. His Canadian designation doesn't hurt either.

"He's a good, young player.He's 6-foot-2, strong, fairly quick and I played with his father." Johnston said.

If Johnston can bring in Bunbury, TFC would have two of the past three Mac Hermann Trophy winners on their roster. Forward O'Brien White was the 2007 recipient. The Canadian connections to both White and Bunbury could make for an intriguing striker combination for years to come.

Last year, Johnston landed all three of his major targets. Instead of trading away any of his three first-round picks, Johnson did the unusual for him, staying status quo, selecting midfielder Sam Cronin (second), White (fourth) and goalkeeper Stefan Frei (13th), all of whom had varying levels of success in their respective rookie campaigns.

In fact, TFC has considerable young talent. Defender Nana Attakora (20), and to a lesser extent young Gambian duo of Amadou Sanyang (18) and Emmanuel Gomez (19), are reason to believe better days lie ahead for the Reds.

The pressure is on for Johnston to get it right this off-season right. While Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Ltd. is resolutely standing by its man, the public knives have been out for Johnston for quite some time, after three subpar years under his watchful eye.

"The entire process is a game and in the end it all funnels through. We've got a game-plan. "

Ilia Javorijan.. who is he?

2010-01-07T10:08:00.001-08:00

I know this is very boring news but not much of anything exciting is happening right now. Unless you want to hear about how I am doing in FIFA10 on my DS. I think the people at EA sports screwed up when they added Vitti to the game cause the man is on fire in my game. Nothing like the real player. anyways..

Today I read on the IMscouting website that this fella Ilia Javorijan is headed for Toronto for a Trial with TFC. It seems he is over paid and no good so his current team Maccabi Tel Aviv wants to get rid of him. I can only assume that Mo Johnston see's the resemblance to Danny Dichio and has decided he would be a good replacement for the big bald man. I don't think Mo has taken into consideration that Ilia's name is probably not song friendly.

If you want to check out the article it is at the IMscouting site. Here is a clip of the story

MLS side Toronto FC have handed a 10-day trial to Armenian striker Ilia Javorijan , starting from February 8th.

The 28-year-old target man has been plying his trade in Israel since 2004, and this season he has been a major disappointment for Maccabi Tel Aviv despite scoring 4 goals in 10 league appearances.

According to reports in Israel, Maccabi Tel Aviv are trying to get rid of the striker who doesn't wish to play for other sides in the country and prefers a move abroad.

Javorijan has been playing for Israeli sides Hapoel Petach Tikva, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Irony Kiriat Shmona and Bnei Sachnin before moving to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the summer of 2008 for $515k. His contract runs out in the coming summer.

Nutrilite a GO

2010-01-05T12:44:00.000-08:00

Looks like the Nutrilite Championship is still a go. I didn't realize it was in limbo. Shows how much I know. That whole mess with the USL and NASL is just so un-interesting. You can read about it at the Toronto Sun today. Here is a snippet.

Toronto FC will get the chance to defend its Nutrilite Canadian Championship crown in 2010, even if the Montreal Impact and Vancouver Whitecaps have no leagues of their own in which to play.

The Canadian Soccer Association confirmed this week that the three-team championship still is slated to go ahead as it has the past two seasons, despite rumours to the contrary.

The CSA made the decision to sanction Montreal and Vancouver in December, meaning that they still can compete for a national championship.

Both Montreal and Vancouver are in limbo as the United States Soccer Federation refused to sanction the North American Soccer League, a new circuit formed by rebel owners from the United Soccer Leagues. The USL's first division also was rejected. The leagues have until some time this week to strike an 11th-hour kiss-and-makeup deal that would satisfy the U.S. authorities.

Sam in Kenya..

2009-12-29T11:07:00.000-08:00

Still not much going on.. I stumbled across this article on the Winston Salem Journal. It features our very own Sam Cronin! He spent 18 days in Kenya working at two orphanages.

Sam Cronin and his girlfriend, Samantha Holt, had an African experience they're unlikely to forget.

They spent 18 days in Kenya earlier this month, working at two orphanages through the Amani Children's Foundation. They said that the time was rewarding, even though some of their things were stolen near the end of their stay and they had stomach problems from some of the food.

"It was great to see how another culture lives and what those kids are up against," said Cronin, who played soccer at Mount Tabor High School and Wake Forest, and recently completed his rookie season with Toronto FC of Major League Soccer. "It gives you some perspective that you don't have because you take for granted how we were raised and how lucky we have it."

The two returned last week in time for Christmas, but they talk as if they already have received plenty of gifts.

MERRY X-MAS!!!

2009-12-24T08:48:00.000-08:00

I don't have much today. After all it is Christmas Eve. This is kinda neat 2 you tube videos with blindfolded players playing keep up. Theo Walcott is awesome!!

This Next one is behind the scenes.

Also found this Castrol add with Cristiano.. LOL

and last but not least.. A Theo Add.. I could surf you tube all day looking for these things.. :)

Is there something wrong with the bladders of goalkeepers these days?

2009-12-22T11:40:00.000-08:00

What is Auckland City stopper Paul Gothard doing here? Praying nope, planning nope... Pissing his pants in the middle of a match YES!! WTF? Like fellow goalkeeper Jens Lehmann only a few weeks ago Gothard went for a leak during the game! At least Jens had a little more class. I wouldn't have said that at the time but when you way the options pissing yourself or peeing behind a billboard... I think the billboard seems like a better plan. What are these jokers doing before games? come on. This Gothard kid has the creepiest peeing his pants grin on while he pulls his pud. eeek

A few more tweaks.

2009-12-17T09:21:00.000-08:00

The TFC front office is starting to warm up for the holidays. Earlier in the week TFC named Leo Percovich the team's new assistant coach Monday. Percovich spent last season as goalkeeper coach with Chivas USA. Big deal SNORE!!!!

Exciting news from the office has Amado Guevara leaving the team According to several reports, Guevara has signed with Honduran club Motagua. Also on the way out are Pablo Vitti and Lesly Felinga.

Pablo Vitti really did not amount to much while he was here. I had high expectations of him but really I don't know if it was the lack of playing time. Maybe he is just shit. ya I think he is just shitty.

Lesly Fellinga, well I really think that this guy did not get a chance to play and it is unfortunate because the time he did play I found that he was very effective. He probably just was not in Preki's plans for the new season. I would imagine Fellinga will land a job somewhere soon.

Amado leaving is good.. I would rather that he left before the season started rather then waiting for the season to begin and find out that there is trouble in the dressing room. My take on it is straighten that shit out before you start the season. Get rid of the poison.

Amado did his job well when he was here. We didn't make the playoffs with him so no biggie getting rid of him and lets continue the building process. I want to watch a winner this season. Not a dirty bunch of losers! Buh Bye AMADO!!! See Ya Vitti.. (your shit) Felinga... I feel like we never really got to know you.. sniff... sniff..

Robo I think you next!

Paul Winsper is leaving TFC

2009-12-11T15:18:00.000-08:00

Not surprised here. Paul Winsper leaves TFC. It is like a mass exodus over there, Carver, Cummins, Winsper. MLSE needs to find the right people to do the job and get it done. Freaking Seattle did better than us this year and they are in their first season. What the F! Find a trainer I don't care what his name is, frankly I think there was to much hype over Winsper in the first place. No offense to him but a team that can't make the playoffs can not possibly have the greatest trainer? right?

Anyways here is what i found.

Fitness guru Paul Winsper is leaving his job as strength and conditioning coach of Toronto FC for a new position with Nike, the Englishman confirmed to CBCSports.ca on Friday.

Winsper, who is under contract to the MLS club until Dec. 31, said he and his family will be moving in January to Oregon, where he will serve as sports performance director for Nike.

Nike's world headquarters are in Beaverton.

Winsper, 43, said Toronto FC offered him a two-year contract extension, but the job offer from Nike that they first made to him in the summer was just too good to pass up.

"It's an unbelievable job offer that I can't really turn down. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity for me," Winsper told CBCSports.ca.

You can READ MORE...

Montreal in the MLS?

2009-12-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

Doesn't it feel like every few months they are announcing a new team to the MLS? I kinda have been ignoring the stories about Montreal being the next team in but I don't have a lot to post so here it goes..

Montreal Impact are poised to become Major League Soccer's 19th team.

MLS commissioner Don Garber held meetings with the club’s president Joey Saputo, Quebec Minister of Finance Raymond Bachand and Montreal Mayor Gerald Tremblay to discuss the Impact joining the league.

"We are very happy with the visit of the MLS executives in Montreal,” Saputo said in a statement.

He said the meetings on Wednesday with Minister Bachand and Mayor Tremblay were “very positive”. “It's clear for us, and now more than ever, that the arrival of MLS in Montreal is only a question of time. We are hoping to have news in the first quarter of 2010.”

thats from World football insider and can probably be found all over the place cause the story is all over the place including here. now.

Oh Lehmann... you funny guy

2009-12-11T06:43:00.000-08:00

I don't know what the heck happened here but if you find an english version of this clip I would love to hear what the commentators have to say about this.

There is an article about it at goal.com

"Stuttgart goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has remained tight-lipped over the much-publicised moment in which he appeared to take a comfort break during his side’s midweek Champions League encounter against Unirea Urziceni." READ MORE...

Keane linked to Celtic!!

2009-12-10T10:38:00.000-08:00

It would probably be better news if he was linked to Toronto but I was born a Celtic fan so this news is just as exciting. If it could actually happen. My guess is it is purely speculation and nasty gossip to get guys like me excited. :)

"Keane, who returned to White Hart Lane after a difficult spell at Liverpool has seen Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch move ahead of him in the striking pecking order at Tottenham and could be open to a move where he would be instantly taken to heart due to his Irish international credentials. "

Read More..

TFC what went wrong?

2009-12-10T07:51:00.001-08:00

Not much going on yet today. Interesting article on goal.com if you have time to waste. Evidently I have a lot of time on my hands. eek.

Toronto, Canada-- A spectacular 5-0 capitulation at the hands of bottom club New York Red Bulls in a game that could have cemented a place in the playoffs for Toronto turned out to be the last act of departing coach Chris Cummins in an official capacity. Real Salt Lake took the last playoff spot instead, going on to win the MLS cup and underscoring the pain of what could have been for the TFC faithful. Despite the disappointment of providing Dwayne De Rosario his first season bereft of a playoff spot, Toronto FC managed to win their first silverware in the shape of the Nutrilite Canadian Championship by steamrolling the Montreal Impact 6-1 away. However, TFC failed to make the main draw for the CONCACAF Champions League as the Puerto Rico Islanders upended them in a tight qualifier.

Read on...

Toronto looking at adding another striker!

2009-12-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

argh... This news is a little dis-heartening (is that even a word). We need guys in the back field!!
anyways I don't know how accurate this story is but it looks like TFC is looking at signing Kevin Kyle the captain of Kilmarnock. He is coming off a big season scoring 12 goals in 22 appearances. Big woop dee doo!!(now I know that is a word) I want to see the Reds look after the backfield and start making roster moves to remove the dead weight we already have.

Here is some of the story I got from News Of The World

The 28-year-old Scotland hitman is in the final six months of his contract and that has alerted Johnston who sees the giant striker as the perfect man to lead Toronto's front line.

Kyle is Killie's best paid player on £2,000 a week, but he could double that wage if the former Sunderland and Coventry hitman opts to move to Canada with Johnston able to offer him a £200,000-a- year deal.

Losing Kyle would be a massive blow to Kilmarnock boss Jim Jefferies, who pulled off a masterstroke by persuading him to sign an 18-month deal at Rugby Park last January. Jefferies received an instant pay-off as Kyle scored the goals to keep cash-strapped Killie in the SPL.

French winger Laurent Robert is hoping to secure a return to Newcastle United.

2009-12-09T11:18:00.000-08:00

What the hell happened to this guy? Last I heard he had signed a two year deal with Greek side Larissa. Then all of a sudden I read an article on Sky Sports that says he is trying to work his way back to Newcastle. That is nuts!! He scored one goal for Toronto and 0 goals for Larissa. PSG wont even sign him if he plays for free! He tried to get a contract with PSG playing for FREE!!! and they said NO. Why would Newcastle want him?. NUTS

"He has now set his heart on a switch to Championship leaders Newcastle, and has persuaded Magpies new-boy Fabrice Pancrate to pass his details on to manager Chris Hughton."

Adidas unveiled its World Cup match ball!!

2009-12-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

It is getting close to World cup time. Even though Ireland will not be in it due to Henry's big hands. I am excited about the tourney. Not sure who I will cheer for yet but I am pretty sure I will cheer for any team that is playing France. The unveiling of a new ball is always a little bit fun and interesting. How many different things can you really change in a ball? It seems every world cup there are new advancements with balls. Well here are some excerpts taken from the Toronto Sun and The New York Times about the ball.

The Jabulani (which means “to celebrate” in isiZulu) is the 11th World Cup ball Adidas has designed — and according to product line manager Chris Niall, the early feedback is positive.

“The players like it,” said Niall. “(It has been tested) in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, and some of the MLS teams have been given the ball in advance, and it is well approved by the players.”

Former Toronto FC star Danny Dichio said ball technology has come a long way since he first broke in with Queens Park Rangers in England in the early 1990s.

“When I first started, we were using medicine balls, it was that long ago,” said the 35-year-old Dichio, who retired in September. “But you can see significant changes in the ball even over the past few World Cups.

“Now you come in with a ball like this ... compared to when I first started playing, it’s night and day.”

Dichio realizes that some people might wonder why Adidas bothers to tinker with the ball so much. But he says world-class athletes deserve a world-class ball.

“Without (a good ball), the game is nothing,” said Dichio. “The puck never changes in hockey, but (in soccer) the ball is everything. I’ve been in games before where a referee changed the ball three times because people were complaining about it.

Strange Soccer Goal

2009-12-03T08:18:00.001-08:00

Beauty... something to keep in mind. Never stop playing until the whistle blows. Or you will blow. the play... doh.

Philidelphia Union selected the following players

2009-11-26T11:23:00.000-08:00

Union selected the following players in the expansion draft:
Jordan Harvey (DF, Colorado Rapids)
Andrew Jacobson (MF, D.C. United)
Brad Knighton (GK, New England Revolution)
Sebastien Le Toux (FW, Seattle Sounders FC)
Stefani Miglioranzi (MF, LA Galaxy)
Alejandro Moreno (FW, Columbus Crew)
David Myrie (DF, Chicago Fire)
Shea Salinas (MF, San Jose Earthquakes)
Shavar Thomas (DF, Chivas USA)
Nick Zimmerman (FW, New York Red Bulls)

Here is the list of Toronto FC players that were not available in the draft in other words they were PROTECTED!!

Nana Attakora
Chad Barrett
Jim Brennan
Sam Cronin
Julian de Guzman
Dwayne De Rosario
Emmanuel Gomez
Amadou Sanyang
Adrian Serioux
O’Brian White
Marvell Wynne

Toronto FC list of available players for the draft:

Brian Edwards
Lesly Fellinga
Nick Garcia
Ali Gerba
Amado Guevara
Carl Robinson
Pablo Vitti
Gabe Gala

Stefan Frei and Fuad Ibrahim do not need to be protected because they’re Generation Adidas players.

I am surprised they did not target Amado, or Brian Edwards. I would have thought one of those guys would have been picked off.

That Philly Team better not make the play offs before us!! It was embarrassing enough last season that Seattle had a winner. I wish we were part of that expansion draft Moreno would be a nice addition.

TFC Fan makes the paper! ( two weeks ago)

2009-11-26T10:54:00.000-08:00

Because of the lack of interesting news and a slow day at work I thought I would bust this one out. It was Dave that first brought this to my attention. Many thanks Dave.

anyways SUNshine Girl Meagan is 25 years old and loves to watch sports. Proof that good things come in small packages, our girl stands a gorgeous 5-foot-nothing. This beauty loves to bake and shop in her free time.

NICE!!...

more pictures can be found at the Toronto Sun website

Fastest soccer goal ever scored in 2 seconds

2009-11-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty neat little clip. I would love to know who came up with this strategy. Maybe someday in the future we could see TFC try something like this.

TFC change there coach about as often as I change my underwear!

2009-11-20T12:53:00.000-08:00

Toronto FC announced yesterday that Predrag Radosavljevic, commonly known as Preki, will be the teams 4th coach. In a 4 year span the team is thru 4 coachs... DOH! This guy has a proven and a winning record in the MLS. Good news.

Johnston is quoted as saying "Preki has everything we were looking for, and we feel he will be a perfect fit with our club. His resume with Chivas is impressive — having made it to the playoffs in every season he was there. His experience is what we need to take this club to the next level, and we can't wait to get started."

The BAD news I guess would be this is the guy that clashed with Amado Guevara, Toronto's star playmaker. I guess thats not totally bad news cause I don't give a shit what happens to Amado if it means our team starts winning. I guess if he wants to stay he will have to play harder and earn his right to be on the team. If Preki feels Amado can do the job I am sure that we will keep him.

Preki signed a three-year deal with Toronto. Hopefully he lasts more than a season cause I am tired of the carousel of coaches with this club.

It's the weekend I am going home. Someone kick Henry in the nuts for me!

South Africa for Frei!

2009-11-17T12:43:00.000-08:00

Stefan Frei a member of the Generation Adidas program is heading to South Africa! On November 27 he will head out as part of the annual post season trip. Frei was nominated for the MLS Gatorade Rookie of the Year, and also was awarded the Toronto FC Rookie of the Year, and Defender of the Year honours.

Players who join MLS as part of the program receive opportunities to develop their game, and receive educational grants to further their college education.

Frei is a great goal keeper and hopefully he makes it back to North America in one piece. We need a keeper next season. My thoughts and prayers will be with him.

Stay safe buddy...

Dwayne De Rosario has been named to the MLS Best XI

2009-11-17T07:32:00.001-08:00

The first Toronto player to earn the honour in the club's three seasons is DWAYNE DE ROSARIO!!

Surprise surprise. ya right anyone could see that coming. How long can we be shut out with the attendance that TFC draws. Obviously the MLS needs to keep TFC fans happy. And who else are they going to add from the club other than DERO!... Maybe next season we will see Julian get named. If the guy decided to sign a little earlier we could be in the playoffs right now, and he could have had those honors as well. Not that they mean anything. At all.

The MLS names a best XI every season. This is not Dero's first time to appear on the list. In fact its his fourth and he is the first player to be named to it from three different clubs. He is Toronto's first player on the list. Also notables on the list are Jeff Cunningham and Conor Casey. ARGH!! It always hurts to see EX-TFC players doing well.

Here is the whole list in the off chance you care.

Zach Thornton of Chivas USA named Best XI goalkeeper. Geoff Cameron of the Houston Dynamo, Wilman Conde of the Chicago Fire, and Chad Marshall of the Columbus Crew earned defensive honours. The other four midfielders were Landon Donovan of the LA Galaxy, Houston's Stuart Holden, Shalrie Joseph of the New England Revolution, and Freddie Ljungberg of Seattle Sounders FC, while the two forwards honoured were Conor Casey of the Colorado Rapids and Jeff Cunningham of FC Dallas.

Bummer. no Beckham.. :(

Toronto FC’s Pub Crawls are back

2009-11-13T08:06:00.000-08:00

I just received an email from the club. The pub crawl is back.

"For the fourth year, Reds players will be touring pubs across the GTA to meet fans and talk footy.

We will start on Tuesday (November 17) at Jack Astor’s in Burlington, located at 3140 South Service Road (for a map, check out the Jack Astor’s website).

It’s an all-ages event, starting at 7:00 p.m. and there will be free appetizers!

Stay tuned for confirmation of other dates and venues. Here’s the provisional schedule:

Mississauga (Nov 19), Downtown Toronto (Nov 24), Richmond Hill (Dec 1), Scarborough (Dec 3)."

I guess this is only happening at Jack Astors?

What do they want from me? I watched these guys miss the playoffs now they want me to watch them drown their sorrows? WTF! I already spent money on the season tickets now they want me to pay for their beer? Screw it I am responding to the email with my address and if they want a drink that badly they can some over and split a case with me.

John Carver on the move?

2009-11-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

It's been a pretty boring off season so far. Seat relocation has started for those that decided to renew season tickets.. WoooHoo..

Overseas I found some interesting TFC related news.

Seems our old coach is in the running for the Peterborough united job. "The Posh" (Peterborough united nickname) play out of London Road Stadium in Peterborough. They are in the Championship after being promoted last season and are currently struggling in the new division.
They have no manager currently and Carver is still out of a job. Darren Ferguson just stepped down as manager on November 9th.

I don't understand how a club with a manager that was able to lead them to successive promotions from League Two to the Coca-Cola Championship is shown the door? Why would you replace the guy with a quitter?

essentially what "the Posh" plan on doing is get rid of a guy they have had for 3 years and shown them tons of success to replacing him with a dirty quitter who achieved nothing in the MLS?

Come on... who's kiddin who?

Chris Cummins FIRED!

2009-10-27T09:51:00.000-07:00

It did not take long for the dust to settle in Toronto. Looks like Mo Johnston is trying to be pro-active here maybe trying to cover his own ass a little. Few stories today about this

One from USA Today-
TORONTO (AP) — Toronto FC has dismissed interim coach Chris Cummins after the team missed the playoffs and finished with a losing record.

Toronto FC did not renew Cummins' contract on Tuesday. The team finished the season with a 10-11 record with 9 draws.

Cummins' coaching record was eight wins, nine losses and seven draws in 24 matches.

One from the CBC-

The Chris Cummins era is officially over.

Toronto FC general manager Mo Johnston announced at a Tuesday morning press conference that the team will not renew the contract of the head coach.

The announcement comes three days after the Major League Soccer club failed in its bid to secure a historic playoff berth.

"We have decided to move forward without Chris for next season," Johnston said.

Good luck in the future Chris.

THEY LOST....

2009-10-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

Against the worst team in the MLS. New York Shit Bulls pummeled TFC 5-0. The Fan590 Blog summed it up pretty good calling it the "Manhattan Meltdown" I like it, very fitting. The Globe and Mail calling it "Canada's Soccer Shame" also very fitting.

I truly thought I would see the team give there best effort. Instead I watched a team of individuals showcase there talent. I think some of them are unsure of the future they hold with the team and do not understand they need to play as a team to stay on it!... What a mess. Hopefully next season will not be as glum.

I wish Chris Cummins the best for the future. Looks like he will be out of Toronto when the dust settles. He is claiming that TFC reneged on some of the promises they made when he first took over for quitter Carver. "There were things promised me" when they first came over that were never fulfilled.

Anyways I will try me hardest to keep up to date with the MLS playoffs as clearly TFC is not in them. Below is a chart with the playoff teams. I will try to make a Bracket with dates and stuff if I have time ( I doubt it).

I guess from here on out it is all Celtic, Arsenal, and Republic Of Ireland news! The Occasional TFC off season update and MLS cup action minus..

cheers

I got nothing today...

2009-10-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

I don't have to much to say today. Mostly cause I'm working so here are a collection of stories around TFC TODAY. :)

Toronto FC coach not worried about keeping job - (He should be)

On the eve of what could be his final game as coach of Toronto FC, Chris Cummins insists he's not feeling any added pressure to win for the sake of his job.

"I was asked to do the job until the end of the season," said the 38-year-old Englishman, who was named interim head coach in April after John Carver abruptly quit.

-From the Toronto Star

TFC's De Rosario looks to keep playoff streak alive - (I hope so)

Just call Dwayne De Rosario Mr. November.

The 31-year-old attacking midfielder, who joined Toronto FC via a trade prior to the current Major League Soccer season, has a reputation for being a clutch performer during the playoffs, having won four league championships (two each with San Jose and Houston).

He also scored the game-winning goal in two MLS Cup finals, and twice was named player of the game in the league's championship contest. Most impressive of all, though, is the fact that he has never missed the playoffs in his eight previous MLS campaigns.

- CBC Sports

MLS enters frantic finale on last weekend - (YES! heard this a million times now lets get down to it)

Since the beginning of Major League Soccer's existence, the league has been faced with criticism for a playoff structure that saw all but a few teams make the playoffs. In years when eight teams would qualify out of a field of 10 or 12, teams that had endured awful regular seasons could still sneak into the playoffs and potentially win an MLS title (like the 2005 Los Angeles Galaxy).

Expansion has helped ease the problem, and the arrival of a strong expansion Seattle Sounders team has helped turn the 2009 playoff race into the toughest in league history, with six teams heading into the final weekend battling for two remaining playoff spots. Four of those teams (Toronto FC, New England, D.C. United and FC Dallas) have the same point total going into the last game.

- From ESPN

PREVIEW RED BULLS VS. TFC - (nice about a million previews on the net this one is good though)

After hosting MLS games for more than a decade, Giants Stadium will close as a soccer venue with what could be a memorable finale.

Toronto FC tries to emerge out of a complicated playoff picture with one of the two remaining spots Saturday when it visits the New York Red Bulls.

Toronto (10-10-9) is one of four clubs currently tied for the eighth seed in the MLS standings with 39 points. Those teams are one point behind seventh-place Colorado, putting Toronto in a must-win position - along with the right combination of results in the other matches this weekend - if it hopes to clinch a spot.

- From CBS

Republic of Ireland vs. France

2009-10-22T09:32:00.001-07:00

This is not TFC news but I had concerns over Ireland missing another world cup until I heard this news! It gives me hope for the future.

Franck Ribéry is likely to miss France's World Cup play-offs against Ireland next month.

He has been hampered by left knee tendinitis this season, the specialist says he needs to rest his knee for four weeks. wooo hooo! I'm not gonna lie, that gives me some hope that Ireland will be able to pull thru!

Ireland will face France in a two-leg playoff on 14 and 18 November for a spot in next year's World Cup finals in South Africa.

Ribéry has already missed France's last two World Cup qualifiers against the Faroe Islands and Austria. Hopefully he stays injured and misses the Irish games.

Coach says backup goalkeeper 'deserves a chance'....

2009-10-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

There is a story in today's Toronto Star that indicates Brian Edward's is going to be the man this weekend.

Looks like Edwards for FC's last stand

This should be a good thing. I like Edwards in net right now only because he has played reasonably well over the past 2 games. It was only last season that John Carver thought so highly of Brian Edwards that he awarded him the starting job over Gregg Sutton. This distresses me a little cause I don't know how I feel about any of Carver's decisions.

Also I found out that The Red Bulls will honor forward Juan Pablo Angel and defender Mike Petke for reaching milestones, after the team’s season finale against Toronto FC Saturday.

I can not believe they are honouring people after having such a shitty season. Couldn't they wait till next season. Unless of course Angel has played his last MLS game leaving room for much rumoured Thierry Henry.

Speaking of rumours I heard a good one today. Apparently Jeff Cunningham is rumoured to head to Reading. This is the guy that EX-TFC coach John Carver said "I am thinking, ‘How did he score 99 goals?’ That’s what I thought.’"

Like I said at the top. I don't know how to feel about Carvers decisions...

Edu tweets claim racial abuse.

2009-10-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

I am sad to say that I am not surprised. Well maybe I am.

In my opinion Rangers fans have a history of taking things to far and it looks like they have done it again. Maurice Edu in one of his tweets revealed "Not sure what hurt more: result last nite or being racially abused by couple of r own fans as I'm getting in my car,".

I liked Edu when he played in Toronto and as much as I hate the Rangers I wish him all the best. No one deserves that sort of behaviour no matter what your background is.

Maurice you are always welcome back in Toronto!

Liverpool Balloon incident

2009-10-20T12:41:00.001-07:00

This weekend there was a great goal scored by Darren Bent of Sunderland vs. Liverpool. It went off a beach ball. To funny. The goal should have been disallowed with a drop ball given after the intervention of an 'outside agent', but referee Mike Jones allowed it to stand.

Reina told a Spanish radio station: "It was such bad luck. I lost sight of the official ball and stayed on the red one.

"When he shot, it startled me and I went for the red ball instinctively as it was the closest to me and the other went past me. It all happened very quickly.

"This had never happened before in my life. I didn't know what to do.

"A lot of things were going through my head but I honestly thought that the goal would stand and no-one was going to disallow it."

Well Pepe... (Pepe LOL) I am sure you never had to deal with a beach ball in the past but I am guessing you are going to have to deal with a lot more soon enough. Apparently the Liverpool online store is sold out of beach kits. The suspicion is that the £10 kits – including towel and ball – had been bought by Manchester United fans for their visit to Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday.

Don't forget your sunscreen

October 20th

2009-10-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I am sitting waiting for the Arsenal Game to start. I found this site that gives a good run down on the playoff picture.

Playoff berths still up in air in final week

Three open spots remain as seven teams fight for postseason shot

Will Edwards Start Again?

2009-10-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

I know I did not write about it, by now you must know that Jim Brennan scored the goal that won us the game on the weekend. TFC took down Real Salt Lake despite poor officiating. Actually check that. Beyond poor, truly atrocious! The real hero of the game had to be Brian Edwards.

The team overall looked good, but I truly believe Brian Edwards was the decisive man in the line-up. Edwards posted his first shutout of the season and his 3rd in his MLS career. Without him Toronto would not have won that game.

So I guess going into the weekend the big question will be who plays in goal this weekend. Stefan Frei is a great goal-tender but Brian Edwards owns this team right now. In my opinion Edwards should be the man in front of the mesh against the Red Bulls this Saturday.

TFC is currently sitting in a playoff spot due to some weird and funky tie-breaking rule. A win will help this weekend but they may also need a prayer.

Frei please stay injured.

Edwards Back In...

2009-10-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend TFC have a very important match against Real Salt Lake. They need to win to keep the play-off drive alive.

A lot of tough decisions will need to be made by the Interim manager Chris Cummins. Goal-keeper Stefan Frei is still out with finger injury. Edwards will make his second straight start.

Defender Marvell Wynne returned to training yesterday after suffering from a thigh injury. Cummins choice here will probably be to yank Garcia and take a chance on Wynne. Frankly if I was on the team I would probably kick Garcia in the thigh and make Cummins decision a little easier. Wynne would be in for sure then.

Amado Guevara is back from international duty after helping Honduras secure a spot in the World Cup. Now hopefully Cummins feels the man is match fit (I mean he was playing when he was gone) and puts him into the line-up. Our squad looks a lot better with DeRo, Guevara, DeGuzman, and (hate to say it) Cronin in the midfield.

I think the last big decision that Cummins needs to make before the weekend is which motivational speaker to bring in and talk to the team. Tony Robbins is a no brainer! This team needs to learn NOW! how to hold onto the lead.

A hypnotist might not be a bad Idea either.

Toronto FC hosts Philadelphia in first MLS game on grass at BMO Field

2009-10-15T05:58:00.000-07:00

From the Canadian Press

Toronto FC hosts Philadelphia in first MLS game on grass at BMO Field

(CP) – 11 hours ago

TORONTO — Toronto FC has set a date for its first game on grass at BMO Field.

Toronto will host the expansion Philadelphia Union in its 2010 homer-opener on April 17, a later date than usual due to the installation of a grass pitch.

Toronto opens the season March 27 against the Crew in Columbus, followed by an April 10 game in New England against the Revolution.

2009-10-14T05:31:00.000-07:00

Here is an excerpt from "The Toronto Sun" today. It makes some good sense.

And those goals have transformed a team that should be in first into an also-ran.

Here's the sad history:

- April 11: Allow late goal in 1-1 draw with FC Dallas. Cost: Two points.

- April 19: Concede late penalty kick in 3-2 loss to FC Dallas. Cost: One point.

- May 9: Concede late goal that allows D.C. United a 3-3 draw. Cost: Two points.

- July 18: Give up late goal to Houston Dynamo in 1-1 draw. Cost: Two points.

- July 25: Lead Columbus 2-1 late into second half, then concede two late strikes in a 3-2 collapse. Cost: Three points.

- Aug 1: Give up equalizer in 76th minute to New England in 1-1 draw. Cost: Two points.

- Sept. 26: Defensive lapse allows Chicago to get late equalizer in a 2-2 draw, and Fire sub Calen Carr actually misses an open net in time added on. Cost: Two points.

- Last Saturday: Allow an injury-time equalizer to the already-eliminated-from-playoff-contention San Jose Earthquakes. Cost: Two points.

Do the math. Toronto FC's defensive lapses in the final 15 minutes of games have cost the Reds a grand total of 16 points. Add 16 to their current total of 36, and you come up with 52.

Weekend match VS. SanJose

2009-10-13T14:04:00.000-07:00

I was at the game on the weekend, the atmosphere going in was not that great. You can feel it in the air no one on the team believes they will make the playoffs. I am sure of this. If you watch these guys play there are only a few men on the team that play with any sort of urgency. Dero clearly wants to prove that this team belongs in the playoffs. Nana Attakora has an undying love of solid play. Aside from that everyone else is a one man team out for personal stats or acceptance.

I liked the play of Lesley Felinga, he handled the ball well and looked like he belonged. It is to bad they waited so long to start this guy. You can not expect a guy to gel with the team so late in the season.

Barrett looked like Barrett. I truly believe we should keep this guy he is still a young fella and maybe with better coaching he will provide us with some exciting play in seasons to come. This season was way to unstable for any players playing up front. No rhythm was set because of the coaching staffs inability to show confidence in any of the strikers up front.

I found Cummins said something interesting about his limited substitute options. He talked about not having "a defensive midfielder on the bench." But wasn't Amadou Sanyang there? And didn't the young Gambian make three starts at defensive midfielder just a few weeks ago, with reasonable effectiveness by most accounts?

The nice thing about the weekend is that New England lost against Columbus so that still gives us playoff hopes. The Revolution in the last 2 games need to beat Columbus and Chicago. 2 teams that they definitely will struggle with.

Let the playoff PRAYERS continue!

Here's the highlights of the game.

GRASS!!

2009-10-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

Oct. 9, 2009

Plan to increase access to soccer facilities, lay grass at BMO Field get final approvals

Toronto Mayor David Miller today announced that with Provincial and Federal government approvals now in place, a plan by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment to increase public access to year-round soccer facilities and install grass at BMO Field can proceed.

"The agreement of our government partners means tremendous things for soccer at both the community and professional levels," Mayor Miller said. "Since BMO Field (Canada's National Soccer Stadium) was built with public money from all three orders of government, their support was necessary to allow this plan to proceed. I want to thank Federal Infrastructure Minister John Baird and Provincial Health Promotion Minister Margarett Best for recognizing this tremendous opportunity and working with the City and MLSE to make it happen.

"This is a terrific example of the public and private sectors working together to build our city and the sport of soccer and also means good things for the community and for the players on Toronto FC and all our National teams."

With the final government approvals - including a unanimous Sept. 30 City Council decision - and the required building permits now secured, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment will invest $5.5 million and manage the work required to advance the sport in Toronto including investments of:

$3.5 million to replace the Field Turf at BMO Field with a natural grass field.

$2.0 million investment in community sports facilities; including an estimated $1.2 million to upgrade Allan Lamport Stadium with a winter bubble and an $800,000 investment in another artificial turf soccer field in the city.

"Converting BMO Field into a natural grass surface will have tremendous benefits for our community, our city, Toronto FC and soccer in Canada," said Bob Hunter, executive vice-president of venues and entertainment for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment. "BMO Field's natural grass surface will support growing and developing soccer at amateur, national and professional levels, by creating greater levels of access and opportunity. It will also help attract high-profile soccer events to our stadium, creating a positive economic impact for our city."

Hunter added "There are so many people to thank for their support and approval of this positive initiative including represents from all three levels of government and especially Mayor David Miller and Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone."

The upgrades to these three facilities will result in more than 2,500 more hours available for community sport use and have met with support from the Canadian and Ontario soccer associations as well as residents and businesses near Lamport Stadium in Liberty Village.

It is expected that the bubble will be installed at Lamport by the end of November with work to install grass at BMO Field taking place this fall with completion next spring in time for the start of Major League Soccer's 2010 regular season.

They are in the pink...hopefully they don't stink!!

2009-10-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

I received a note from MLSE this afternoon to inform me that TFC will be wearing pink at Tomorrow's game.

here is what it said

Toronto FC are three points off the playoffs with three games left to play! The boys return home to face the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday afternoon at 4:00 p.m. The match will be broadcast live on CBC and The FAN 590.

The Reds will be going pink again on Saturday in support of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation as part of MLSE Team Up Foundation’s Pink Ribbon weekend. The goal of Pink Ribbon Weekend is to raise awareness and funds for the CBCF.

Here’s how you can help!

We will be collecting donations at the gates as you come into the stadium on Saturday.
Purchase a Toronto FC pink jersey from CentreSports or at BMO Field on game day. 10% of every pink jersey sold will be donated to the CBCF.
Participate in an online auction for some great Toronto FC items including 13 game worn autographed jerseys.

SCOUTING REPORT
THIS MATCH IS IN SUPPORT OF CBCF
Toronto FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Saturday, October 10, 2009

ROBO goes for face surgery

2009-10-09T06:39:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow TFC will face San Jose in hopes of keeping the play-off dream alive!! San Jose and Toronto have met only three times previously and sit even a 1-1-1. The Earthquakes can be eliminated from playoff contention, but have been strong of late. They are undefeated in their last four League games with a 2-0-2 record, and are 3-1-2 in their last six games. The Reds will be without the services of Guevara he will be away on international duty as Honduras plays a pair of crucial World Cup qualifying games this week.

Amado out is bad news.

but

the good news is

Toronto FC's Robinson out for the season

I appreciate everything Carl has done for the team since its inception but time ticks on we all get older. Missing the playoffs is getting old to me. Having an aging holding midfielder in the line-up does nothing for the team. I am sure we will not see RoBo suit up ever again in a TFC kit. Maybe the team will find him a role in the coaching ranks.

Monday.... blah...

2009-10-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

Not a whole lot going on... or at least I don't think there is. I know Dichio had some sorta thing on the weekend. This is form his Twitter

"Fantastic day at my Soccer Festival yesterday. Thanks to all the teams that participated and to DeRo, Stefan Frei & Nana for turning up"

here are some other stories around the interweb that involve TFC one way or another.

From the CBC sports website

"Three weeks to go and Toronto FC needs some help if it's going to make the Major League Soccer post-season for the first time."

From GOAL.com

"Chris Cummins must have smiled as he watched Chivas USA thump United at home. The road to the postseason just got a tad bit easier."

From the National Post

"Three weeks to go and Toronto FC needs some help if it's going to make the Major League Soccer post-season for the first time."

and last but not least a blurb on salaries from InsiderMediaGroup.com

"If a team has a $500 million budget, a player earning $25 million is not being overpaid"

Natural Grass

2009-10-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

ok

This is a day old and the story has been kicking around forever. Obviously BMO is going to get grass eventually. I think the fan calls for it have been way to loud to ignore.

so here is a clip from yesterdays Toronto Star

-"The fact the MLSE pays the full $5.5 million means it was really a no-brainer for city council to approve it," Deputy Mayor Joe Pantalone said after the 29-0 vote. Pantalone is the chair of Exhibition Place, where the stadium is located.

ya that's right. A no-brainer called it a no-brainer.

nice

Pat Phelan

2009-10-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Here is a little summary of some stuff I read on the interweb today

New England picked up Pat Phelan from Toronto FC in June 2008 in exchange for an international roster spot.

Pat this season has 18 games played 11 started and 953 minutes. New England now has to lean on him a little as Shalrie Joseph is out with an injury.

"I got drafted out of Wake to Toronto and never played a game, never got a shot with the first team," said Phelan. "Fair enough, that’s what happens a lot of times if you’re a rookie, you’ve got to pay your dues. They needed the international roster spot, they needed to bolster their roster."

"When I first heard about the trade I thought they just thought I was an unhappy kid who just wanted to go home," said Phelan, (this Blogger believed that to be just the case) "which wasn’t the case at all, but it’s nice to be close to home – my parents are close, my wife’s here. I’m a local kid and think New England might have drafted me had I been available, so it worked out well for both parties. I was also playing center back there which I didn’t really want to, so I was really excited to jump at the chance to come down here and start contributing. Fortunately, I’ve been able to stay within the top 15 players."

"There’s really no way to replicate the way Shalrie plays," said Phelan, "and that's usually when I’m in there - when he’s playing forward or suspended."

"I’ve got to wear this cast till about the middle of December, three months - it’s a long time and pretty obnoxious. I ran into the boards and lost my footing on the asphalt and landed on my wrist with all my weight and broke my scaphoid, which is an area that doesn’t get a lot of blood flow which is why it takes so long to heal. Instead of opting for surgery and missing a couple weeks I’m just going to wait it out in a cast."

It's nice to see Pat did not have anything negative to say about Toronto and he is doing well in the MLS for a second year player. His success says something about our scouting but not a whole lot about our General Manager.

Columbus first team to qualify for playoffs

2009-09-29T14:47:00.000-07:00

Salt in the wound weekend. Toronto Fc's Arch nemesis are the first to qualify for the MLS playoffs. ARGH!!
Jeff Cunningham pulls into a tie for "The Golden Boot" award scoring 2 goals over the weekend.
There is a strong chance Toronto will not make the playoffs. And all the talk around the team right now seems to be what is going to happen next season. I am not going to lie. Talk of next season drives me crazy!! This one is not over yet. Worry about next season in the off season.

On the TFC game over the weekend. The effort was there. unfortunately Garcia was the designated shit player. I do not really want to sum up the game so here it is in six minutes.

later

Adrian Seriouxly considers retirement

2009-09-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all. Breaking news. Or breaking rumour perhaps is more appropriate... Word on the street is that Serioux's done soccer. For goods. Which sucks, because he's the best defender on our team (IMHO).

Buddy of mine that lives a few houses down from Serioux was having some beers with him and Serioux mentioned that he's pinched a nerve in his neck and keeps re-injuring it. Doesn't look like it's going to heal, so he'll probably retire at the end of the season. He's in contract negotiations now and has to decide whether he wants to let TFC buy out his contract for the remainder of the year and retire, or try rehab to fix the problem. Apparently he's leaning towards retirement.

You heard it hear first kids.

TFC vs. Columbus first game next season

2009-09-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Crew in Columbus on March 27th... TFC season opener.

I have a few thoughts on this and none of them are good. I think that the brain trust at the MLS has been working overtime. They know that the past 2 seasons Columbus vs. Toronto at the beginning of the season was a hit. well screw that... Apparently they were not paying to much attention. Otherwise they would have noticed the away fan attendance dwindle last season. They should have noticed in forums, newspapers and websites that traveling fans were getting pissed.

I went to the First BIG Columbus road trip. It was tons of fun but we were treated like shit and the people on Columbus made fans feel un-welcome. I went to the 2nd BIG road trip to Columbus and it happened again X2. Although Dave and Trav witnessed drunk boobs for the first time. How can the MLS expect us to travel to Columbus again? It is a shitty trip. I am not going (or at least at the time of this posting I am not going).

Reasons I do not like the idea of going back;

-Un-Organized
-Long ass drive
-No benefits for going other than supporting my team that can not beat Columbus anyways
-Treated like shit
-treated like shit just in case you missed the last one

I was really hoping the season would start in New England, Chicago or New York. Really those are places I would like to go to. It is difficult to justify to the wife why I need to go to an away game. First game of the season kinda fly's. Why would I want to waste it on Columbus!

I have been so annoyed about this announcement that I have not checked out the Red Patch Boys website to see the reaction they have but I am willing to bet it is similar to mine.

I hate Columbus.

I will probably go anyways.

Ricketts washes out again!

2009-09-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

FORMER Spurs and Toronto FC winger Rohan Ricketts played for Orient reserves in their 4-1 defeat at Gillingham last week - but he won't be joining the club.

Orient Manager Geraint Williams confirmed: "There won't be anything happening."

Come on! Are you kidding me! Ricketts can not seem to catch a break anywhere. I am starting to feel real bad for the guy. Your trying to tell me he can not land a job anywhere? WHY. Twittergate could not possibly be influencing coaching decisions over seas? It is not like the guy has no talent. This is making me seriously question Toronto FC management because we seemed to have given him a better chance than a lot of other teams. Now I am embarrassed we held onto him for that long.

Wish I could go shirtless

2009-09-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Beckham on Fox Sports News after thumping Toronto. He thought he should have had 3!!

We lost.. ARGH..

2009-09-22T09:11:00.001-07:00

Toronto 0 - L.A. 2

Scoring summary
Team: Player goal (assisted by) minute
LA: David Beckham 2 (Chris Birchall 1) 9.
LA: Edson Buddle 5 (Landon Donovan 6, David Beckham 3) 83.

Misconduct summary
Team -- Player (foul type) minute
TOR -- Julian de Guzman (caution; Reckless Tackle) 24TOR -- Amado Guevara (caution; Reckless Tackle) 64LA -- David Beckham (caution; Unsporting Behavior) 64TOR -- Nick Garcia (caution; Tactical Foul) 67

Toronto FC lineup
Player (substitute minute)
Stefan Frei, Sam Cronin (Pablo Vitti 79), Nana Attakora, Nick Garcia, Julian de Guzman, Ali Gerba (Lesly Fellinga 71), Jim Brennan, DwayneDe Rosario, Marvell Wynne, Chad Barrett (O'Brian White 62), Amado Guevara.
Substitutes Not Used
Brian Edwards, Amadou Sanyang, Gabe Gala, Emmanuel Gomez.

Los Angeles lineup
Player (substitute minute)
Donovan Ricketts, Todd Dunivant, Omar Gonzalez, Eddie Lewis (Chris Klein 46), Landon Donovan, Edson Buddle (Alan Gordon 86), StefaniMiglioranzi, Gregg Berhalter, David Beckham (Jovan Kirovski 89), SeanFranklin, Chris Birchall.
Substitutes Not Used
Josh Saunders, Yohance Marshall, Mike Magee, Bryan Jordan.

Ricketts on TRIAL again!

2009-09-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

Looks like Leyton Orient a league one team is the next one to step up to try out the EX-Toronto FC player. Having failed to land a spot on a hand full of other teams it would be nice to see Rohan land somewhere. I guess the term "Don't mess with the Rohan" has been taken way to literally lately.

Jonathan de Guzman on the move?

2009-09-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

Aston Villa have expressed interest in Julian's younger brother for the January transfer window. Jonathan currently is a Feyenoord midfielder and has had a lot of interest from big teams in the EPL. His contract with Feyenoord will expire next June making him a hot comadatity for the next transfer window. Villa is said to be willing to an offer of £5million to take De Guzman in January. Still waiting to see what the TFC offer will be HA. It would be nice to see the 2 brothers playing together in Canada.

Jonathan was born in Scarborough Ontario, but unlike his brother he has stolen a page out of Owen Hargreaves book. When given the opportunity to choose between playing for the Canadian or Dutch national sides. He picked the Dirty Dutch. Recent changes to FIFA regulations regarding switching nations now means that De Guzmán is again eligible for selection by both the Netherlands and the Canadian national team. So maybe all is not lost yet.

You can find a tiny bit more HERE

De Guzman may suit up against L.A.

2009-09-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

Toronto Fc's newest designated player has met Beckham before. Over the past four seasons, the two matched up during Beckham’s time with Real Madrid.

“My first and only goal for Deportivo came against him and Real Madrid,” de Guzman told reporters after practice on Tuesday. “It’s always great to play against guys like Beckham and any kind of star that plays for Real Madrid or another big team in the world.”

Can Julian bring us to the promised land. This will be his first time suiting up since playing for the Canadian National side in the Gold Cup. I could not resist going to YOUTUBE for some highlights.

TFC improves playoff chances

2009-09-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

I was away at the cottage over the weekend. So it took me a while to get caught up on the weekend football action. I watched the TFC game last night and it was very entertaining. I was a little disappointed to not see DeGuzman in the line-up.

De Rosario's goal in the 19th minute ended a 313-minute scoreless drought for Toronto FC. Rookie O'Brian White and defender Nana Attakora scored three minutes apart in the second half to help Toronto FC with a 3-2 victory over the Colorado Rapids!! I loved the fact that all 3 of the TFC goals are gems.

Ali Gerba looked better than he has in his last appearances I know some people would argue that with me but this is my blog so I can say what I want. He had some pretty close chances and debatable non calls. Nice to see Felinga finally or did I? Didn't really notice him out there that could be good and bad I guess. Overall I was impressed with the game but I still hate Chris Cummins.

Greg Sutton still wants to play

There is an article on the CBC website about Sutton still looking for some playing time.

"I'd like to keep playing as long as Pat," Sutton admitted. "Realistically, if I can keep playing for another five years I'd be pretty happy. That would take me to 37 and I could say I had a pretty good career."

That is nice to see. I really enjoyed watching Greg playing for TFC and I wish him the best of luck.

Jeff Cunningham gets his 3rd player of the week award in 11 weeks.

EX-TFC forward and now FC Dallas forward Jeff Cunningham was voted Major League Soccer’s Player of the Week for Week 26 of the 2009 season. The 12-year veteran now ranks second in the Budweiser Golden Boot race with 12 goals this season, behind leader Conor Casey (13) and ahead of third-place Fredy Montero (11).

Check out the story HERE

It is always a little painful to see when EX TFC players are doing so well. Cunningham chasing Casey. shit.

DANNY DICHIO say it ain't so...

2009-09-10T06:27:00.000-07:00

Danny Dichio announced his retirement early yesterday morning 09/09/09 go figure. I probably should have posted something yesterday but work (as usual) got in my way.

Danny had a good run with Toronto FC becoming a huge Icon here. He scored our first goal, I had tickets to that game and I will never forget that I was outside the stadium still trying to find a parking spot when he scored that first glorious goal. From outside the stadium it felt like an earthquake had started and all I could see blast out of the top were seat cushions that had been given away for free that day.

While with Toronto FC Danny managed 59 appearances and 14 goals over a span of 2 and a half seasons. He added creativity and spark to the team. I am sure the team and the fans will miss him greatly. Danny meant a lot to the players on the field I am sure Gabe Gala will never forget him. Danny set up a beautiful play that lead to Gabe scoring the only TFC goal against Real Madrid in August.

The Londoner will continue in soccer, with Toronto FC appointing him an academy coach and team ambassador, working in the community for the club.

I can't help but wonder if DD just paved the way for Carl Robinson to make a similair move at the end of the season. Hopefully with Julian deGuzman in the mix we will have a more stable midfield and possibly a shot at the playoffs. I can not help but wonder though if TFC made a mistake by not using Dichio in more games this season I felt he still had and has a lot to offer on the pitch.

Here is a link to some of Danny's greatest moments.

Cheers Danny! thanks for the great memories.

TFC Lose in Colorado argh!@$

2009-09-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

Conor Casey Ex-Toronto FC player put the nail in the coffin scoring the only goal of the game against his former team late Saturday night. The MLS leading scorer Conor Casey, who was supposed to be in the lineup for the U.S. when they met with El Salvador for World Cup Qualifying on the weekend. But U.S. national team coach Bob Bradley decided he wasn't going to use Casey, and the Colorado forward quickly boarded a plane and returned home. This Game was brutal to watch. Toronto FC had 2 red cards in the last 15 minutes of the game losing Sanyang and Serioux. In my opinion Sanyang did not deserve the first yellow card he received. The play was definitely a foul but I don’t think there was any call for a yellow which lead to the dismissal of Sanyang after he received his second yellow late in the match. Serioux bad temper showed up for the match no comment necessary on his blatant foul. This team looks like shit right now. With Amado Guevara away on international duty with Honduras, this leaves the team short a solid midfielder who has creativity in controlling and moving the ball up the pitch. Cummins tried loading the field with strikers at the end of the game but he still lacks the ability to manage this team.

Still we have not had the opportunity to see Lesley Felinga play. I figured when they put out such a shitty effort they should test this players ability on the pitch.

I still dis-like Cummins

2009-09-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I have had anything to post here. So lets try to bang this out in order.

First the Game on the weekend with the attendance at 32,679 it was the largest crowd Toronto has played in front of all season. Given that 0-0 is a shit result. The game was embarrassing as usual coach Cummins never fails to display his incompetence when it comes to running this team. Toronto FC displayed a relentless attack in the first half as Seattle struggled to control the ball. Dwayne DeRosario missed a wide open net in the first half, Guevara dinged one off the crossbar and Chad Barrett lost his concentration as he made an incredible dive to try and head the ball in. Sanyang in my opinion was the star of the game, he managed to torment midfielder Freddie Ljungberg all game long . Freddie Ljungberg received a yellow card in the 73rd minute for unsporting behavior and arguing with the referee when he came racing across the field to engage in a scuffle that was ignited after a hard tackle by defender Jhon Kennedy Hurtado on Dwayne DeRosario. The booking is Ljungberg’s fifth, meaning he is suspended for the next league match. Seattle really had the best chances to win the game in the second half as it looked like TFC shot everything they had in the first half. After the break it looked as if there were entirely 2 different teams out on the pitch. Seattle was dominant with the ball and made some strong offensive pushes. When Barrett was subbed out for Gerba in the second half he was clearly pissed at coach Cummins. If my lip reading skills are as good as I think they are, Chad was questioning the coach while walking off the pitch. He was the only TFC substitution of the match. after leaving Danny at home vs. Chivas I guess because of public backlash the club felt compelled to fly Dichio to the west coast game and nail his ass to the bench. We still haven’t had a look at Lesley Felinga. Looks like things are still shitty in the TFC locker room.

I am a terrible writer.

Second thing I would like to address is the Red Patch Boys have decided to make a strong push to make Danny’s last 3 games of the season as comfortable as possible. The September 12th home game vs. Colorado will be the beginning of it. Here is a quote from the Red Patch website

“We will use the last few home games of the season to draw support from all areas. This campaign will be topped off at the end of the season by marking October 17th Danny Dichio Day.That is also the game that the south end supporter groups will unveil the Year end banner!!! On September 12 please be sure to support the Terry Fox foundation where some members will shave their heads in support of the Terry Fox Foundation.Be sure to support the year end banner by donating in person or by buying a very limited Danny Dichio t-shirt. The shirt will cost $10 and $5 will cover the production and $5 will cover the end of year banner. There will be a special Raffle on September 12th to raise funds for the year end banner at Shoeless Joe's after the game. More info will be provided here. Also, be sure to check the boards as we will have special pub nights set up so that members can get together and finally put that face to the board name. We will have special prizes and raffles as the dates draw closer.”

I think that this is a great idea. Danny Dichio is a great ambassador for the game in Toronto.

I lost my train of thought work has interrupted me. Anyways I am very much looking forward to the Celtic match on Wednesday at BMO field Vs. Benfica. WOOO hOOOOO

Is Cummins or Goings

2009-08-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

It feels like we have offensive power but there is no way to harness the power. What is the Deal with Coach Cummins? I think it is way to late in the season to make a coaching change unless we get eliminated mathematically from the playoffs. On the Red Patch Boys website a lot of the talk in the forums is to chase after any MLS assistant coach Paul Mariner being the funniest looking one. I do not buy into this strategy. If Toronto have to start looking for a new coach I think they should try something like stealing a successful coach from another team OR try using a coach from another league with experience on a winning team.

I guess I should mention a little about the shitty game played over the weekend. First they LOST! 2-0 to Chivas and NO Jesús was not the deciding factor in the defeat. In fact it was the bum Sacha Kljestan. Ya that’s right Sacha! If you travel to Chivas website you will see that Sacha only has 2 goals this season, and yes they were against us on Saturday. What a bummer. For the life I me I could not understand why Coach Cummins screws with our line-up so much. Danny Dichio apparently did not make the trip because he has a mysterious injury that does not allow him to fly to the west coast. Sanyang came on late in the game at the 79 minute mark. Gerba came on to replace Amado at the 53 minute mark not sure why. Amado is very good at controlling the ball so without him on the field how on earth would Gerba ever expect to get the ball fed to him? Putting Barrett out to start the second half and taking O’Brian White out well that is understandable. Apparently O’Brian white had some work permit problems at the border the day before and spent a lot more time travelling to L.A. then the rest of the team. I would love to know what happened to Lesley Felinga I figured we would get to see him a little. In a game that spiralled out of control pretty quick why not play him? Argh… I guess this just brings me around to my original thoughts. Lets FIRE the COACH!!!