Servania scores late equalizer to secure draw against Atlanta

Brandon Servania was the hero for Toronto FC as he scored the equalizing goal in the final moments of stoppage time to secure a draw for his club. 

Atlanta nearly spoiled Lorenzo Insigne’s return as they scored the go ahead goal to make 2-1 prior to the Italian winger making subbing into the match.

Atlanta didn’t waste any time as they scored in the 4th minute off a set piece play. Giakoumakis get a touch off the corner to put the visitor up 1-0. 

Jordan Perruzza has a great opportunity to make an impression on the coaching staff as slotted into the striker role in his first start of the season. He has been a highly touted young forward for quite some time, so tonight was his chance to prove that he can be an effective player at the MLS level. 

In addition, Richie Laryea was celebrating a milestone as it was his 100th game in a TFC uniform. He made it a milestone night to remember as he score the equalizing goal in the 43rd minute from an excellent shot following great link-up play between Servania and Federico Bernardeschi. 

The goal brought plenty of confidence to Toronto as they headed into halftime after levelling the score. 

Coach Bradley made a few changes at the start of the half as Marshall-Rutty and Akinola subbed in for Coello and Perruzza. 

During his post-match press conference, Bradley complimented Perruzza for the energy he brought to the team both in training and on the pitch tonight. 

Insigne received a loud ovation as he began warming up and approached the touchline to sub into the match. However, Atlanta spoiled the moment as they scored the go-ahead goal prior to the Italian subbing on in the 76th minute as Chol found the back of the net. 

Despite the goal, TFC kept battling and ramped up pace they brought in their attack. Their resilience paid off as Servania scored the equalizer in the final moments of stoppage time after Marshall-Rutty spotted him with a nice pass and the 24-year-old put in the back of the net to secure the draw and one-point at home. 

Tonight’s match was a homecoming of sorts for Quentin Westberg as he made his first start in-goal against his former club at BMO Field. 

Toronto FC are back in action next weekend as they travel to Philadelphia to take on the Union at Subaru Park.