It’s been a long and grueling couple of years for Toronto, who were forced to play away from home for the better part of two years (2020 and 2021) as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, TFC went from perennial MLS Cup contenders to mighty contenders, resulting in one of the most dramatic roster changes in league history.
Before Saturday night, Toronto had won just five league games in 2022 and played plenty of young, unknown merchandise as they waited for reinforcements to arrive in the secondary transfer window. They’re still six points off the MLS Audi Cup Playoff line, sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference standings, but there was plenty to cheer about against Charlotte.
The win was the club’s first goal since September 25, 2021, a stretch of 29 games. That matched the third-longest streak in MLS history, according to Opta.
“Obviously for a variety of reasons, we’ve missed it over the last few years,” Michael Bradley said. “When we can now go out to a stadium like tonight, to feel the energy with the team we have on the field, it’s a big advantage. It’s a big advantage, so we’re going to continue to need all of that and again, as players, there’s nothing like playing here these nights.”
Saturday night by the lake was special. In many ways, it felt like a turning of the page for the club. The reinforcements had arrived and with it, so did the crowd.
“On behalf of the team, we appreciate every bit of the way the fans have supported us this year and again, their support is the difference for us,” said Michael Bradley. “So, on a night like this, to be able to make it a special night for them, for everyone, that part is great. Now we have to go on, keep working.
“We’re building something big and real again.”