Toronto FC: Drew Moor set to return on Sunday vs. NYCFC
By Paul Taylor
Toronto FC are set to receive a big boost for Sunday’s game against New York City FC, with the news defender Drew Moor will likely return to action.
As Toronto FC made their journey to winning the first MLS Cup in team history last season, the defence was an important — and underrated — part of the reason for their success. They completed the regular season conceding just 37 goals, which was second-best in all of MLS.
By the same token, the defence’s play in 2018 has contributed to TFC’s struggles. They’ve already conceded 41 goals, with 12 league games still remaining.
With this in mind, the Reds are set to receive a major boost ahead of Sunday’s home game against New York City. As per Sportsnet’s John Molinaro, Drew Moor will likely return to action.
The update was provided by TFC coach Greg Vanney on Friday. Speaking to Molinaro and other members of the media, Vanney said:
"“He’s getting his way back. He’s been in full (practice) sessions this week, so hopefully he’ll be in contention for some minutes (vs. NYCFC). I’m not quite sure how long just yet, but we’ll see. Hopefully he gets back into the mix this week.”"
Moor has been out for all but three league games this season, due to a quad tear. The situation wasn’t helped last month, when he also suffered a calf injury.
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While football is a team game and there’s plenty of blame to go around, you have to wonder how much the 34-year-old’s absence has impacted Toronto FC. His experience and leadership have been sorely missed.
During his first two seasons in Toronto, Moor started 56 league games, even adding five goals and an assist along the way. He also appeared in 11 playoff games, helping the Reds appear in consecutive MLS Cup Finals.
Certainly, Vanney appreciates the value of the 2005 sixth overall MLS draft pick. As per Molinaro, the TFC coach said:
"“Of all of our centre backs, he’s the one that is the most vocal in terms of communication, leadership, (relaying) information to guys around him. In terms of leading the line, he’s the guy with the most experience, and the most comfort level of being outside of himself and getting everybody on the same page and working together as a group.”"
Despite TFC’s struggles this season, they’re slowly getting themselves back into playoff contention, with seven points from their previous three league games. As a result, they’re now within touching distance of sixth place, with games in hand on everyone above them.
Of course, there’s still a long way to go for Toronto FC and they can ill afford to make any more mistakes from here on out. At least with Moor back in the mix, you imagine the errors will become less frequent.
Next. Signing Auro to a permanent deal should be a priority. dark
What’s your opinion of Moor? How much does he mean to Toronto FC? More generally speaking, how confident are you in the Reds’ chances of clinching a playoff spot this season? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.