Giovinco Makes Triumphant Goalscoring Return in Big Win Over DC United

Toronto FC kicked off their four-game homestand in style with a big 4-1 victory over the visiting DC United. It was the most goals they have scored this season, an impressive outpouring from the team's decent dormant offence.

Sebastian Giovinco scored a hattrick in the match, his 9th, 10th and 11th of the season. Marky Delgado added another goal for Toronto FC, his second of the year. Jared Jeffrey scored the lone goal of the match for the visitors.

After some good early pressure, Toronto FC opened the scoring in the 21st minute when Giovinco found the back of the net from a freekick. It was a double monkey off of the atomic ant's back, as he had not scored in eight games, and also had not scored from a free kick this season. It was his ninth goal of the season.

However, as has happened far too many times this season, Toronto FC quickly allowed DC to get back in the game. Lloyd Sam played a brilliant ball in behind to Jared Jeffrey, who pushed the ball past Alex Bono.

It didn't take long for Toronto FC to regain the lead, however, as just five minutes later they combined to make it 2-1. Jay Chapman turned his defender in the midfield who played the ball through to Jordan Hamilton. Hamilton let it run to Sebastian Giovinco who hit the post on his initial shot. Delgado slotted home the rebound for his second of the season.

A dominant Toronto FC added to their lead as the first half drew to a close. Giovinco was given yet another free kick opportunity. His curling shot went into the top left corner, giving Toronto FC a huge 3-1 lead going into halftime.

It was an inspired first half from the team, coming off their worst performance of the year. They left no doubt who was the better side after the first 45 minutes, something they have done far too often this season.

Toronto FC continued their dominance in the second half, but this time did not bury their chances as well. Nonetheless, they rarely let DC United break through as the backline held well.

Having the lead allowed Toronto FC some flexibility with their substitutions, and they got a number of players involved. Jozy Altidore made his return from injury, while Tosaint Ricketts made his Toronto FC debut. Both had very strong performances late, with Ricketts getting a few good chances.

Giovinco added to his goalscoring tally late to make it 4-1. After a spin move from Jozy Altidore took him too wide, he laid it off to Mark Bloom who played a brilliant cross into the Italian. Giovinco made no mistake on the volley. 

Because the Montreal Impact won tonight, Toronto FC will not move up in the MLS standings as a result of this match. But it was a big win to build on as they start their four-game homestand.