Toronto FC: Who Needs Sebastian Giovinco?
By Paul Taylor
Toronto FC show their championship credentials with a hard-fought win in Chicago, which takes them to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Quite rightly, everyone was wondering how Toronto FC would do with Sebastian Giovinco? It turns out there was nothing to worry about.
While TFC didn’t play up their usual standards, they still managed to clinch a scrappy win on the road. In the process, they reclaimed first place in the Eastern Conference, with just six games remaining.
More from Tip of the Tower
- Cam Phillips making his mark on Toronto Argonauts offence
- Toronto Argonauts: 4 storylines ahead of matchup against Redblacks
- Federico Bernardeschi ready for new challenge with Toronto FC
- Toronto Argonauts overcome Roughriders in entertaining Touchdown Atlantic
- Buffalo Bills: Von Miller drawing inspiration from Bruce Smith
What made the Reds victory even more impressive – apart from the absence of the aforementioned Giovinco – was the fact they did it in Chicago. While the Fire are near the bottom of the standings, they have been impressive at home this season, having gone unbeaten in their previous 12 games at Toyota Park.
One of the main reasons Toronto FC managed to win, was down to Jozy Altidore. Expected to pick up the slack in the absence of the Atomic Ant, he rose to the challenge.
Altidore was involved in both goals for the visitors, scoring the first and then setting up the second for Jonathan Osorio. The US international has been on fire lately, with six goals in his last eight appearances.
To see Altidore in such fine form is redemption for both himself and the club. Critics have repeatedly questioned his ability to stay fit and contribute consistently on the score sheet.
From the 26-year old’s point of view though, he takes a mature approach to any negative comments, putting it all into perspective. Speaking to mlssoccer.com’s Shane Murray and the rest of the media, he said: “Anybody knows me, I’m a simple guy – I don’t really buy into all that stuff.
“I’m happy to do what I do for a living, take care of my family, and enjoy these amazing experiences that I am blessed to have. Being able to travel the world, play soccer, represent my country, represent the great city of Toronto, I’m just lucky and I just try to enjoy the ride.”
With Altidore’s humble approach to it all, it was up to his manager to rave about him. Also speaking to Murray, Greg Vanney said: “He brings so much to our group from his personality to what he does on the field for us on both sides of the ball and it’s great to have him scoring goals.
“I know he feels great, he’s in a good place, and it’s up to us to just keep working with him to make sure that he stays there. I think we’ve got the right answers for that now.”
More from Toronto FC
- Federico Bernardeschi ready for new challenge with Toronto FC
- Toronto FC remodel continues with departure of Alejandro Pozuelo
- Toronto FC looking to move on from Carlos Salcedo
- As Lorenzo Insigne arrives, Toronto FC looks to get back on track
- Toronto FC: 3 takeaways from 2-1 loss to Columbus Crew
Of course this is just one game, with Giovinco expected to be out for at least another couple of weeks. Regardless, TFC are well-placed, with a two-point lead and a game in hand on the competition in the East.
Now, it’s just a case of continuing to ride the momentum of what is fast turning into a special season. Toronto FC already proved they had the strength in depth, after dealing with a barrage of injuries to key personnel, including Michael Bradley, Will Johnson and Clint Irwin.
If the Reds are able to continue winning without Giovinco, this will only give them even more confidence. The rest of MLS has been put on notice.
Next: 5 important TFC storylines to follow
While TFC showed they can win without Giovinco, do you expect them to continue to get results until the Italian returns? Further, how confident are you in their ability to finish the season in first place in the East? Let us know in the comments section below.