Toronto FC 2, New England Revolution 1
BMO Field — Toronto, Ontario
Toronto FC finally ended its long MLS winless drought in dramatic fashion, defeating the New England Revolution 2–1 Saturday night in the Reds’ emotional return to BMO Field.
Toronto struck twice just before halftime.
The opening goal came in the 43rd minute when New England defender Noel Buck’s attempted clearance resulted in an own goal, putting TFC ahead.
Then came the moment of the night. Niklas Dorsch, making only his second appearance for Toronto, unleashed a spectacular long-range strike in first-half stoppage time to make it 2–0. It was Dorsch’s first MLS goal since joining Toronto from FC Heidenheim in a reported $4.3-million transfer.
New England pushed hard after halftime, and Toronto’s task became considerably more difficult when Djordje Mihailovic was sent off in the 76th minute.
The Revolution finally broke through in the 90th minute when Wilson Harris headed home, setting up a tense finish. Toronto’s defence held firm through the remaining stoppage time, however, preserving a badly needed three points.
The win snapped Toronto’s 12-game MLS winless streak and ended a 13-game run without a victory in all competitions. TFC’s previous MLS victory had come on April 4 against the Colorado Rapids.
The match was also significant because it marked Toronto’s first home game at BMO Field since May 9, with the stadium having been used as a FIFA World Cup venue during the summer. The Reds gave the returning home crowd plenty to celebrate.
Toronto entered the match near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, but the victory gives the Reds renewed hope. With 15 regular-season matches remaining, TFC now has an opportunity to build momentum and make a late push toward the playoff places.
