Goaltending Means Everything

While many were expecting an exciting match it was one that clearly left everyone wanting more – especially Toronto fans.

Both played stellar soccer to get to this final match and for Canadians that follow the MLS we were pondering what the weather would be like, considering it’s snowing in Vancouver.

Temperature at game time was 20-degrees Celsius and despite the weather BMO Field was packed with an extremely vigorous crowd on hand.

For Toronto fans this was going to be there moment as they have been patient and supported Toronto FC for the past 10 year hoping this day would soon come – only with a Championship win.

This was the Sounders first  MLS Cup title in eight years in the league and this wasn’t going to be an easy win for either club.

Seattle were relying on strong play from Swiss goalkeeper Stefan Frei and it wasn’t long after the match began that Frei was tested by Jozy Altidore who sent one rolling past the goal.

Altidore had another chance at the 30 minute mark when he had a chance on Justin Morrow’s cross, but sent it too close to Frei.

One could say that the first half belonged to Toronto FC as they played solid in the opening half controlling the half.

If the first half was any indication it would go to extra time it was simply due to Toronto being stopped by Seattle’s wall.

As much and as often as Toronto FC continued to press it was like Seattle seemed more comfort playing behind the ball, giving Toronto nothing to challenge for.

The 65th minute saw a huge chance as Bradley sent across the goal but Altidore was unable to reach it as Marshall blocked his path to the ball.

The 74th minute saw Seattle get a chance when Alonso had an attempt from the 30 yards only to be blocked by Bradley.

Regulation time saw neither team score but the second half of extra time Ricketts sent one narrowly missing the post only to be followed by an almost impossible stop on a header from Altidore.

As if they were playing extra-time against Montreal the final period saw the end of Giovinco’s day on the pitch.

He spent much of his final minutes stretching then the inevitable happened and Vanney pulled him in favour of Tosaint Ricketts.

When questioned by reporters Vanney mentioned that “It’s not like I take him off because I want to, but rather when I look at him and he gives me the sign that he can’t go anymore, then it’s my call.”

Ricketts play immediately helped as he sent a volley from just inside the box  and it somehow trickled a foot wide of Frei’s net.

Rickett’s managed to beat his defender to the byline, cutting a ball back that found Altidore’s head near the penalty spot and at that moment time stood still.

The fan’s were breathless as they watched Frei get his fingertips on the ball and the rest is history. looping header.

Whitecaps rivals won the MLS Title and if this was any indication as to what pro Soccer is about make a trip to the Whitecaps office and get your season’s tickets for the 2017 Season.

Money well spent!

Photo from Seattle Times