Toronto FC II vs FC Tucson: Preview, Game Thread and Stream

After a six-game road trip to start their 2019 campaign, Toronto FC II return home on Friday afternoon for a game against FC Tucson.

This season, the club will play their games at the BMO Training Ground in Downsview Park after calling Lamport Stadium, a couple of American venues, and (occasionally) BMO Field home in 2018.

Toronto FC season ticket holders wishing to go to the game can get in for free if they show their TFC member card, and other fans will be able to buy tickets at the gate. Seating is general admission.

TFC II are in a bit of a rough patch at the moment, having lost their last three matches. After conceding just once in their first three games, and picking up seven points, they have lost the last three, being outscored 8-3 in the process.

The recap of the last match, against Orlando City B, is here.

Head coach Michael Rabasca said his side were looking forward to their first home match of the season.

“Everybody is excited. It’s unique in that it’s our training ground. There is a little bit of: it’s our first one, nobody knows exactly the routine,” weighed Rabasca. “The ability to play in front of people who work with us every day, serve us, offer words of encouragement, so it’s a good moment for players to step forward, show gratitude and appreciation; to play in front of staff and coaches.”

The visitors have played seven games, and have a 3-3-1 record. They dominated Chattanooga Red Wolves SC last time out, thanks to a two-goal performance from Devyn Jambga.

The two sides played against each other on April 13th, a game that ended in a 1-1 draw. Jamael Cox had the goal for Tucson, and Jordan Hamilton scored the equalizer six minutes later. The highlights of that game are here.

“They’ve been consistent, that’s the word I would use for them,” said Rabasca of Tucson. “Whether in a loss or a win, they’re true to what they’re trying to do, they’re style of play. There are not any highs, any big lows.”

“They’re a good team at home, so perhaps the travel will be to our advantage,” posited the coach. “But it’s our first home game, not being as familiar takes away a little of the advantage. Overall, a good test for us at this time.”

As always, the match will be streamed on YouTube: