A week ago, United were on 34 points, below the red line and in a must-win scenario in order to keep pace with New England and Orlando City SC. Fast forward a week, and the Black-and-Red are four points clear of the Revs, who now sit in seventh. Riding an offense that has scored multiple goals in six straight matches, Ben Olsen’s side have surged up the standings after defeating Orlando and Columbus for their first winning streak of the season.
United now travel to Canada to face Toronto FC Saturday night at BMO Field (7:30 PM, NewsChannel 8) to complete their three-game week heading into the international break next weekend. While the Reds have already clinched their spot in the 2016 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, Greg Vanney and his side were left “disappointed” after drawing 0-0 against Orlando Wednesday night. With Italian star Sebastian Giovinco nearing a comeback after injury, Toronto will be rabid in their hunt for both the Supporters’ Shield and a first round bye.
The Black-and-Red head to Eastern Conference-leading Toronto full of confidence after their back-to-back victories at home and will look to continue that momentum north of the border. “I think the momentum is good right now,” goalkeeper Bill Hamid said after the victory over Columbus. Hamid and his back line will have their work cut out for them a couple days after posting their first shutout since Aug. 13; Jozy Altidore has been on fire over the past month while Giovinco has been out.
Speaking of the back line, Nick DeLeon has played admirably, filling in for Sean Franklin on the right side of defense after previously playing outside midfield and in the center. “DeLeon’s been spot on,” Hamid said. It’s hard for guys to get behind him because he knows the position well, which is surprising because it’s not something that he’s played all year, but he’s filled in and done a fantastic job.”
Look for another high-scoring affair between the two sides when the match kicks off at 7:30.
