The most unlikely win in Toronto FC's short history; That's the way Soccercentral analyst Craig Forrest put it, and I don't know how anyone could argue.
It will have to be the most satisfying as well. They would never admit it, but even the team thought their chances were slim and none. Nobody saw it coming. During training on Friday at one of the 24 pitches (that's right, 24 pitches) they have adjacent to Dick's Sporting Goods Park, the mood was almost one of resignation. Who could blame them? Seven players were missing for a variety of reasons. Untried, unproven youngsters would be thrown into the breach. The team had just one away win all season. Colorado had been outshooting and outplaying their opponents heading in, although they had been unable to find a win recently as well.
As we were admiring with more than a tinge of jealousy those 24 pitches I mentioned, head coach John Carver simply shook his head in resignation. But then they played their hearts out. After the match Rohan Ricketts was still in agony after having to leave the game with an injury, but with a beaming smile said he never felt better. Same thing for the concussed Danny Dichio who probably shouldn't even be out there. More of the same from the injured Tyrone Marshall. They're all hurting. But it’s a nice hurt.
As for Carver, he was spent, slumped in a chair in the coach's office munching on a banana. He hardly had enough energy to get up. Yes, an improbable, astonishing win when circumstances never appeared more bleak. But that's why we play the games isn't it?
I don't care what they say, a good game is the best reality TV there is.
