MLS Picks for Kicks: Ryan Nelsen Leads Toronto FC Reform

Argentine reinforcements en route To TFC

Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither was Manchester United. That’s what Toronto FC supporters should remember as the Reds prepare for their fifth game of the MLS season. At this point last year it was painfully obvious that major changes were needed with this organization – from the front office to the pitch. After addressing at least a number of those, there’s a different air surrounding this squad.

TFC has taken four points from four games after losing each of its first four a year ago. And it’s not so much about the points as it is about how they went in the standings. They beat a strong Sporting KC squad and hung around with easily the two best teams in Canada, Montreal and Vancouver. Last week TFC was one terrible breakdown away from beating LA Galaxy, but the team continues to focus on the positive, which is refreshing after last season.

“Yes, we’re all very disappointed that we didn’t walk away with three. We could have, but we move on,” TFC manager Ryan Nelsen told reporters after last weekend’s game. “We take the point. We have to look at the bigger picture — the bigger picture is the MLS champions came here and we did extremely well and we’ve got one point, and we move on to (next opponent) Dallas.”

While there is reason for optimism, there is a lot of work to be done. TFC’s defending needs help and club seems disjointed in midfield much of the time. Earlier this week the Reds reportedly signed a couple of Argentine reinforcements (striker Maximiliano Urrutti and an as yet unnamed midfielder), both of whom should join the club later this month. Nelsen constantly stresses the importance of finding the right mix with his side. This will only help Toronto moving forward.

This week’s matchup against Dallas might be a tough one for the Reds, though. Dallas sits atop the MLS standings and leads the league with 31 shots on goal so far. That said, FC Dallas hasn’t exactly been dominant. They could have easily dropped their opener against Colorado and needed a late prayer answered in last week’s win over New England. Dallas has improved after missing the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, but so has Toronto. I’m taking a shot with TFC (+160) to earn a 2-1 victory a BMO Field Saturday.

After a 2-0 week with his MLS picks, Frank fell apart with a 0-3 effort his last time out. He’ll stick with a single play this week.

Season record to date: 6-7
Correct scores: 2