Yes, it’s possible to make an argument that since other games needed to be played this weekend, fairness in the abstract required that none of the league’s teams should be able to dodge the burden of international call-ups. And yes, there was almost certainly a television component to the decision as the league fulfilled a contractual obligation to one of their partners. (Precisely why their television partner would find it beneficial to feature the league when some of its most recognizable American stars are away remains a mystery.)
The unavoidable truth, however, is that MLS didn’t need to schedule this game for this weekend. One way or another it was a decision. One actively made in the full knowledge that the likely outcome would be offering fans a less palatable product. That’s not just unfortunate, it borders on insulting, and the just result would be fans ignoring the league, in the same way that the league is ignoring its fans.
Since you’re reading this, however, I suspect I’m safe in assuming that you’re towards the less sensible, and more irrational side the fandom spectrum. So, like me, you’ll be watching. And it will probably come as no surprise to you that yes, in fact, both Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore have been called up to the U.S. national team and aren’t with TFC. Further, Justin Morrow’s red card in Columbus was upheld and he’ll be serving a one game suspension. All the indications are that Steven Caldwell won’t be available either.
It is accepted wisdom that success over the course of an MLS season requires depth, just as much as top tier talent. That’s certainly true, but it doesn’t make winning when some of your most vital and consistent players are away any easier. How the rest of Toronto FC deals with the enforced absences is an open question.
Among their offseason additions, the Reds will still be able to field Sebastian Giovinco, Benoit Cheyrou, and Damien Perquis. Ashtone Morgan’s call-up from the club’s new USL side means that Greg Vanney doesn’t have to play anyone out of position at left back unless he chooses to. Jordan Hamilton and Jay Chapman, players that many supporters are excited to see, can fill the bench, and might be able to snag some minutes as legs tire at altitude in the second half.
RSL, for their part, will also be dealing with international absences. Keeper Nick Rimando, midfielder Luis Gil, and forward Alvaro Saborio are away, but that still leaves the Lakers’ midfield axis of Javi Morales and Kyle Beckerman intact. As usual when playing Salt Lake, if Toronto are to be successful, that’s the combination they’ll have to find a way to counter.
Real Salt Lake have only managed two draws in their opening two games and will be looking to take full advantage of a diminished TFC. Toronto, on the other hand, has never won at Rio Tinto Stadium. You have to go back into the mists of time to find TFC’s only win in Utah back in 2007. That was the then new Reds’ first road win ever, and was two years prior to RSL’s MLS championship and subsequent installment as annual contenders.
Like I said, the sensible, rational fan simply wouldn’t watch. Enjoy the match.