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Toronto FC: 4 Questions for the 2017 Season

By Paul Taylor

Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; Toronto FC wait during the penalty kicks against Seattle Sounders during the MLS Cup at BMO Field. Seattle defeated Toronto on penalty kicks. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 10, 2016; Toronto, Canada; Toronto FC wait during the penalty kicks against Seattle Sounders during the MLS Cup at BMO Field. Seattle defeated Toronto on penalty kicks. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Toronto FC
Nov 6, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Toronto FC goalkeeper Clint Irwin (1) makes a save during the first half against the New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Who will be starting in goal at season’s end?

This question may understandably raise some eyebrows. After all, TFC just signed Clint Irwin to a new deal, and he will begin the new campaign as the starter between the posts.

Further, the 2015 MLS All-Star was in goal for last season’s entire playoff run. Add in the fact the Reds were tied for the second-fewest goals conceded during the regular season, and it seems clear Irwin is the unquestioned number one.

However, Alex Bono actually played a significant part in helping the defence improve so dramatically, after they allowed the most goals in the league during 2015. In fact, he probably fared better than expected, when Irwin missed 15 games through injury.

Consider that Bono had a record of 8-3-5 as a starter, compared to 6-6-6 by his teammate. In addition, he only allowed a goal every 85:38 minutes, while Irwin conceded one every 73:29 minutes.

Ultimately, Toronto FC are in the great position of having their best depth in goal in franchise history. However, it will be interesting to see how things play out, especially if Irwin suffers a loss of form or another injury.

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