Toronto FC: Alex Bono the record breaker
By Paul Taylor
Alex Bono sets a new standard for Toronto FC goalkeepers in the 4-1 win versus the Portland Timbers, while also tying another franchise record.
Saturday’s 4-1 win over the Portland Timbers at BMO Field, almost had the feeling of a coronation. Toronto FC remained unbeaten at home, and have the most points and best goal difference in MLS.
The game almost marked a special occasion for Alex Bono. The TFC goalkeeper broke the club record for most wins in a single season, moving to 12 victories on the year.
There are severak reasons this mark should be considered impressive, including the fact Toronto FC still have 10 league games remaining. In addition, Clint Irwin actually started five of the first 24 games of the 2017 league campaign.
Now, Bono has his sights set on another club record. Just one more victory, will give him the most career wins in franchise history.
The 23-year-old is currently tied with Stefan Frei, on 20 wins. For some perspective, Frei achieved the mark in 82 games, compared to just 35 starts for Bono.
Of course, it is only fair to consider other aspects, when throwing all this information around. For a start, most analysts and fans alike, will concede Frei played on some pretty damn awful TFC teams.
On the flip side, Bono is playing with the strongest squad in franchise history, and arguably the best team in the entire league this season. (Let’s throw another bone to Frei, who proved his talent last season by winning the MLS Cup with the Seattle Sounders, ironically against his former team.)
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What’s interesting is that Bono shouldn’t even be in this position. Irwin was brought in last season, to be the long-term solution in goal.
Unfortunately for Irwin, his bad luck with injuries since arriving in Toronto, has given Bono has chance. The question is, how will this all play out?
The reason we ask, is because the 2015 sixth overall draft pick excelled in the absence of his teammate last season. Regardless, once Irwin was fit again, he went back into the lineup for the stretch run, all the way through to the MLS Cup final.
However, will seniority play a part again this season? The answer would seem to be no, given that Bono is still in the lineup.
The truth is, the New York native deserves to keep his place in net, as things stand. Let his play decide whether he is replaced or not.
One of the best things about Bono, is how humble he has remained throughout his rapid rise. Speaking to the Toronto Star‘s Laura Armstrong, he said:
"“Fortunately, I got an opportunity and I’ve been happy with the way things have gone and very grateful to the staff for sticking with me.”"
Toronto FC are in the fortunate position of now having two goalkeepers capable of being quality starters in the league. In that respect, Bono makes sure to point out the two get on well, even referring to them as 1A and 1B.
For now though, the 2014 NSCAA first-team All-American has the spot, as well as the complete trust of his teammates. This includes Drew Moor, who praised his colleague, while speaking recently to Sportsnet‘s John Molinaro:
"“Bones brings a lot of confidence into the group, and lot of times it’s those intangibles that are the difference. He’s grown leaps and bounds since I’ve come here.”"
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What is your opinion on how Bono has played in goal this season. Does he deserve to keep his starting place long-term, or should Irwin be given another opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.