Game Thread: Toronto FC vs. Philadelphia Union

Toronto FC vs. Philadelphia Union

5:00 PM Eastern

BMO FIeld Toronto, ON

Sportsnet 360

The Headliner: On the Verge of History

This match is far from a must win if Toronto FC want to make the playoffs, winning any of their next three would have the same effect. But this is a chance for Toronto FC to get ahead of things, to put themselves in the playoffs and then be able to fully focus on chasing a home playoff spot.

This is also statistically their easiest match, as Philadelphia are near the bottom of the Eastern Conference while their remaining opponents, the Montreal Impact, Columbus Crew and the New York Red Bulls are all in a playoff position currently.

The Philadelphia Union will come into this game hurting, after a U.S Open Cup final loss midweek to Sporting KC in penalties. Things haven't gone much better for the Union in Major League Soccer lately either as the Union only have three wins in their last 11 matches.

For the fourth straight season it is a foregone conclusion that they will miss the Major League Soccer playoffs. Therefore they are playing for what little pride they have left when they come into BMO Field today.

That is why Toronto FC need to win the match, the Philadelphia Union are there for the taking and this time of year one has to take those sort of opportunities.

Key to the Match: Keeping up the Momentum

Toronto FC are hot right now. They have not played great teams recently, but the point remains as they have won both of their past two games. Keeping up that momentum is key, especially at this time of year going into playoffs. Winning today's game could be very important to earning a home playoff spot, both in the standings and in the confidence it would give the club going into their next few games.

Keeping the momentum going on the field is important too. Toronto FC finished their last game against the Chicago Fire in excellent form, taking three points on a late goal from Jozy Altidore. Playing again like that early, especially if it means the matches opening goal, would be massive.

The Lineup:

Toronto FC- Konopka, Morrow, Perquis, Williams, Jackson, Cheyrou, Osorio, Findley, Bradley, Giovinco, Altidore

Subs: Bendik, Kantari, Morgan, Delgado, Warner, Gomez, Moore