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Toronto FC: Resting Players for Seattle Trip makes sense

By Paul Taylor

Aug 22, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) is congratulated by head coach Greg Vanney as he comes off late in the match in exchange for a substitute against the Orlando City SC at BMO Field. Toronto FC beat Orlando City SC 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 22, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco (10) is congratulated by head coach Greg Vanney as he comes off late in the match in exchange for a substitute against the Orlando City SC at BMO Field. Toronto FC beat Orlando City SC 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Regardless of any criticism, Toronto FC make the right move in leaving four of their starters at home as they travel to Seattle to face the Sounders.

A lot of people were understandably looking forward the rematch of last year’s MLS Cup final. However, some of the gleam has now been removed from the clash, as a result of a gutsy move by Toronto FC.

As reported by the Toronto Sun‘s Kurt Larson, TFC traveled to Seattle without four members of their team. The four missing players were Sebastian Giovinco, Victor Vazquez, Steve Beitashour and Eric Zavaleta.

Undoubtedly Giovinco is the biggest absence, especially as he’s recently begun to return to form. However, all four have been regular starters this season, including Vazquez, who currently leads MLS with six assists.

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It comes as no surprise to hear some Sounders’ fans spouting off about how Giovinco and company are scared of playing against their team. However, the move by Toronto FC head coach Greg Vanney actually makes a lot of sense.

First of all, Saturday’s game takes place on a short week, after playing on Wednesday night. This also ties into the fact TFC are in the midst of an energy-sapping five games in 16 days.

Playing on a short week is compounded by having to travel across the country. This trip was made even worse by flight delays, which meant the team didn’t arrive in Seattle until 1:00 am PT on Friday.

If you’re still not convinced the Reds did the right thing, keep in mind the game will be played on the questionable artificial surface of CenturyLink Field. Throw in that this is an out-of-conference game and it’s tough to argue the team made the wrong call.

Vanney discussed the reasoning with Larson and other members of the media on Friday:

"“There’s no way to put your so-called best (lineup) out for 34 games — especially in this league with the proximity of games and the travel that’s there,” Vanney said. “But, we also want to put guys out that are super motivated. During these types of games that fall on short rest and long travel you want guys who are really hungry out there.”"

Of course, a lot of fans and media alike will still be disappointed. Both teams are expected to make the playoffs again, and this rematch was seen as a potential warm-up act for another encounter at the end of the season.

It has been repeatedly stated how much depth Toronto FC has on their roster these days. At least we get to put this theory to the test on Saturday afternoon, against the reigning MLS Cup champions.

Next: 100 not out for Greg Vanney

What is your position on several players being rested for the trip to Seattle? Do you agree with the decision or not, and why? Let us know in the comments section.

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