Toronto FC: 3 takeaways from 0-0 draw with New England Revolution
3. The return of Alex Bono
For about three years or so, it looked as if Bono was entrenched as TFC’s starting keeper of the future. But goaltending is a finicky business, and one bad week in early May of 2019 changed everything.
After a disappointing 2-0 loss to Atlanta United on May 8, 2019, Vanney decided to go with new arrival Quentin Westberg in net for a quick turn-around against Philadelphia on May 11. Although Toronto FC lost the match 2-1, Westberg made an impression, and earned his first clean MLS clean sheet in the following match.
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This proved enough to win the starting role from Bono, as Westberg has started every TFC MLS match since. His streak was broken on Tuesday against New England, as Bono was finally given another opportunity.
Bono did not disappoint, making a point blank save on Adam Buksa late in the match to preserve his clean sheet. Although nothing Westberg has done gives any indication Bono might be back in the running for the starting job, the American only helped his case with his strong showing against the Revs.
Much is still to be determined in Toronto FC’s Group C. At the moment, Toronto would win the group on goals scored, but their placing still could shift based on the results of the match between Montreal and D.C. United.
If Toronto holds on to the top spot, they will face one of the best third-place finishers on Sunday night. If they drop to second, the Reds will lace ’em up against Philadelphia Union on Saturday.
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Do you have any takeaways to add to Toronto FC’s performance against New England? How far do you predict they will go in the tournament? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.