Let’s start with the half full.
They won. For the second game in a row. The purpose of things is to score more than your opponent and Toronto did just that. As it was at the start of the year when people talked about bad luck contributing to the 0-9 start, the bottom line is the bottom line.
So, let’s not get too bogged down on the second half bunkering. If you want to dismiss this game as being meaningless because TFC was “lucky” then you have to also acknowledge that they were unlucky earlier in the year at times. Things even out over the year and the table is the ultimate measure.
That table shows Toronto still having a tough time, but also with 13 points in the last five weeks. Under Mariner, TFC has now averaged 1.44 points per game (as opposed to Aron Winter’s (0.3 ppg pace). Extracted over a whole season that would work out to be 49 points, which would be in the playoffs. If they finish the season on the same pace the Reds will end up with 38 points. Using last year’s table, that still puts them well out of a playoff spot (46 points would be needed), but respectably bad, if that makes sense.
[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]The truly bitter will never be able to see positives in the numbers, but, as said, the bottom line is the bottom line and under Mariner TFC’s bottom line is promising.
Now, for the half empty.
Danny Koevermans’ season might be over. After catching his cleats on the garbage surface -- on a play that illustrated why he’s so important to Toronto (finding space behind the defenders and stretching the opposition out) -- the big Dutchman went down hard. He clutched his knee. He was in a lot of pain. Toronto fans do not likely want to hear the acronym the medical staff utters today. It will likely involve “CL.” Hopefully only once.
The loss of Koevermans meant that Toronto’s somewhat effective counter game turned into a bunker and hope game in the second half. Without a skilled threat up front, the Revs could push forward harder without fear of being caught. And, they did. God, did they ever. If it wasn’t for Milos Kocic having the game of his life and for Richard Eckersley saving Doneil Henry’s butt a couple times…
Well, those things did happen so woulda, coulda, shoulda for the Revs.
Still, get well real soon Danny. In the meantime, Mariner has even more work to do to find a replacement for one of the most effective strikers in MLS history.
Such is life at TFC where half empty is always a moment away.