Toronto FC is attempting to make the playoffs for the first time in team history in 2009. It will be helped by a strong offense; however, its struggles in defense may hamper its chances.Toronto FC looks to have a strong offense heading into the 2009 season after struggling in 2008. The addition of Canadian National Team member Dwayne De Rosario will provide a steady presence in the midfield and, alongside Ricketts and Guevara, will supply the forwards with plenty of offensive opportunities. Danny Dichio, when playing, will be well placed to capitalize on these opportunities – he led Toronto with 5 goals in a concussion- and injury-filled 2008 season. Chad Barrett may be able to step up this season after showing promise last year by scoring 4 goals in 13 games and will be starting alongside Argentine forward Pablo Vitti. The new off-season signing of Vitti failed to impress in his home country and the TFC brass are hoping that he can put it together in the MLS.
Defense is the biggest question for the club in 2009. Canadian defender Adrian Serioux is an upgrade on Tyrone Marshall (now with Seattle), but fellow Canadian Kevin Harmse and Serioux will not instill fear in opposition forwards in the powerful Eastern Conference.
In 2009, TFC fans have plenty of reasons to be excited. “At the very least, we will be in the playoffs,” says TFC’s Rohan Ricketts; “I’ll bet my house we’re in the playoffs.” A revamped Toronto FC roster will give head coach John Carver a chance to reach the postseason for the first time in the team’s short history and, if things come together on the defensive end, the chance to make a run in those elusive MLS playoffs.
- coming up next: Seattle Sounders F.C.
-TG
1 comment:
"kevin harmse and seriox will not instill fear" ?? are you kidding? they are both physical players and opposing offense know this. that explains the constant diving every time harmse even looks at them. eventually the refs will catch on and start penalizing the actors.
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