Four years in a row. Four years in a roooooow. We’re champions of Canada, four years in a row.
The song rang out from BMO Field’s south end as the final seconds ticked off a decisive 2-0 victory over the Montreal Impact in game one of the two game Amway Canadian Championship semi-final.
There would be no late game capitulation this time. The Toronto fans got to celebrate their first win at BMO Field since August 1, 2012.
This is our house…again. Finally. For this night, at least.
[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]
The work isn’t over, of course. A two-goal lead is good, but hardly a sure thing heading into the second leg. Montreal dressed a lot of back-ups (as did TFC, to be fair) and can put out a stronger side on the return trip. The Reds must not go in thinking it’s over.
However, last night was bigger than the tournament. It was absolutely needed for the psychology of the team. Even if they had won the game, but allowed a late goal it would have been damaging. A decisive win was what had to happen.
So, what now? Can TFC build on the success? As we know all too well, cup success has never translated into league success for this team. It’s hard to say why – maybe the old cliché of them “wanting it more” than the other team’s applies. Regardless, it’s time the club figured it out.
Based on the attendance last night it’s clear that, outside of a few fans that tend to be more engaged with the club, another Voyageurs Cup will have little impact on the perception that this is a doomed team. Shifting that is going to take a lot more nights like last night.
In the meantime the fans that do care should simply enjoy the game in isolation. Doneil Henry’s goal was worth the price of admission alone and how can you not get a chuckle out of a goal from the greatest finisher of the modern era (and it was a nice finish).
Seeing Stefan Frei back out there was nice too. He’ll likely get the start in Montreal next week and the fire that the young players showed was a joy to see.
Fans can also take comfort in that there is another game that really matters in less than a week. After a year like 2012 when so few games had any meaning it’s nice to have a little bit of nervous anticipation before a game. Next Wednesday will have that.
Most of all, fans should rejoice in the most basic thing of all – Toronto scored more goals than the team it as playing.
Victory, and the chance to dream of something bigger. That’s the sweetest thing of all.