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Toronto FC: Looking to Make History at Home

By David Morassutti

Oct 14, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Fireworks go off prior to the start of a game between New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC during the first half at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Fireworks go off prior to the start of a game between New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC during the first half at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto FC will host their first ever playoff game at BMO Field, where they will try to avoid a repeat of last season.

BMO Field has had its fair share of exciting games. However, none will compare to the first ever home playoff game for Toronto FC, when they host the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday night.

Last season the team made it to the postseason for the first time in franchise history, but they did not have a memorable experience, losing 3-0 to the Montreal Impact. The circumstances surrounding this do-or-die game are very different this time around.

Toronto FC have figured out how to be less reliant on Sebastian Giovinco and improve their defensive play. They are also fortunate to have this game at home, where there will be some nervous spectators but an unfriendly atmosphere for the Union.

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While anything can happen in a one-game knockout, TFC is in a more favourable position going up against Philadelphia, Toronto has won both games against the Union this season.

In addition, Philadelphia has not won a game in their last seven, although they are an experienced team that will make this a tough matchup for TFC. The Reds had a good game against Chicago on Sunday and will be hoping the momentum carries over into Wednesday’s game at home.

Talking to reporters, TFC coach Greg Vanney likes the matchup for his squad, but knows the playoffs are another beast all together. “It comes down to managing the moment and dealing with the increase in intensity and making sure that we’re up for it on the night. The second part becomes the soccer and making plays.”

This is an important moment for Toronto FC. The Blue Jays are in their offseason, the Raptors season is just getting started and the Leafs are going through growing pains, meaning TFC can become the hottest story in town with a victory.

Speaking to reporters, Michael Bradley said: “We’ll rely on the work that we’ve done for the entire season — two years — in terms of what we’re about. We’re going to need guys to make big plays in important moments.

Toronto FC
Sep 13, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC midfielder Michael Bradley (4) and Toronto FC midfielder Sebastian Giovinco (10) warm up before a game against the New England Revolution at BMO Field. The New England Revolution won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

“You play all year to get to this point. We’re excited. If this part scares you, then you’re in the wrong business.”

The atmosphere will be electric for this game and the team has only lost twice in their last 15 matches – a streak they hope to continue. If they do move on it will get tougher, with both New York clubs atop the standings awaiting the result of the first round.

However, the improvements made should give the team confidence, especially with a strong nucleus of players that will be returning next season and do not want another disappointing effort like last year. Look for Giovinco to be a key player in this game as he had a strong effort in their final regular season game and has overcome a couple of injuries to get TFC in this position once again.

Next: Michael Bradley drawing interest from Italy

What are you expecting from TFC against the Union? What’s your prediction for the final outcome and why? Let us know in the comments section below.

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