TFC finish off remarkable season with first MLS Cup trophy

Toronto FC have done it all this season. Winning the Supporters Shield, capturing the most points in MLS regular season history, and now they can add something else to their long list of accomplishments.

Last year didn’t end so well for Toronto FC when the Seattle Sounders escaped BMO Field on penalties to capture the MLS crown right in front of Toronto’s fans. This time around the team made it their mission to make sure it would not happen again.

Goals from Jozy Altidore and Victor Vazquez sealed the Reds spot as the best team in league history and the first Canadian team to win the MLS Cup.

A cross was sent in just two minutes into the match that Chris Mavinga flicked towards Drew Moor. Moor’s header went just over the bar for the early chance.

Once again, Michael Bradley showed his brilliance in the midfield after sending a long ball in towards Altidore. The American striker then settled it down for Jonathan Osorio to take a shot on goal, but it was turned aside by Stefan Frei.

The ball was one back from Will Bruin not even a minute later and sent to Vazquez. The Barcelona native sent a peach of a ball towards Sebastian Giovinco who put the shot just across the goal line and wide.

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Frei made a couple of similar saves on Giovinco and Marky Delgado. Both took shots from outside the box that were deflected out by the Swiss goalkeeper. Vazquez took his first crack at goal when he took a shot from midfield that Frei just reached over to get a piece of.

Steven Beitashour went through half of the Sounders squad to send a ball in towards Altidore. Jozy sent it over to Giovinco who took a curling shot that Frei again just got a touch onto.

BMO Field wound then be sent into a frenzy. Giovinco sent in Altidore who sprinted onto the ball and sent a shot over Frei and into the back of the net. Deserving first lead for the Reds.

Seattle really couldn’t get anything going in this one. Lots of transition play happened before stoppage time. TFC would possess the ball again as Giovinco sent in Armando Cooper who hit the post, but Vazquez tucked it in to secure the MLS Cup for the first time in Toronto FC’s history.

Key Stats

Seattle Sounders

• Seven shots, two on target
• Five dribbles won, seven tackles
• Key Player: Frei prevented the game from being a blowout, it could have easily been a 6-0 beating from Toronto, if it were not for a marvelous performance in goal.

Toronto FC

• 22 shots, 11 on target
• 24 tackles
• 84 per cent pass success rate
• Key Player: Giovinco with an assist and overall brilliant play

It’s great to see the Reds top off a great season with a championship. Some had to remain doubtful of Toronto coming out victorious in this one, but Greg Vanney has installed a clump of confidence into his squad.

It will be an interesting offseason for sure. If TFC can add to this stacked squad they already contain, they might be able to make it back-to-back MLS Cup wins.

Next: ToT Cast: Blue Jays dilemma, TFC going for glory, Leafs, thriving

What are your overall thoughts on TFC’s amazing season? Glad that Toronto got revenge on Seattle? Let us know in the comments below.