Atlanta United vs. Toronto FC
Atlanta United Earns 1-1 Draw Against Toronto
Rosetto Nets First Goal
Atlanta Latinos Magazine – The outcome did not match what the eyes subjectively saw and the final stats objectively showed. Atlanta United dominated play on both ends but could only muster a 1-1 tie.
In fact, Atlanta fell behind early in the second period. After a scoreless first half, Toronto’s Federico Bernardeschi found the back of the net for his second goal of the season. The assist was credited to Michael Bradley.
Atlanta would answer shortly. In the 60’, Matheus Rossetto banged one home from distance. He managed to score even with a double deflection off two Toronto defenders. It was his first goal while playing for Atlanta United. Both Thiago Almada and Derrick Etienne earned assists on the play.
Statistically, it was an overwhelming performance by Atlanta. United controlled possession 67% to 33% and outshot Toronto 16 to 4. Atlanta won 9 corner kicks and additionally had 29 crosses compared to 3 for Toronto.
Second half subs seemed to bring a lot of energy to the team. Both Etienne and newly acquired striker Giorgos Giakoumakis entered in the 59’. Atlanta’s goal came a minute later. It was the first match for Giakoumakis, who flew over late Thursday night and had only one practice prior to the match. Giakoumakis donned the #7 jersey, which had previously been worn only by franchise great Josef Martinez.
Atlanta next plays at Charlotte FC on Saturday, March 11th.
Notes…Francisco Ibarra and Derrick Etienne both earned yellow cards…Atlanta committed 15 fours compared to Toronto’s 9…it looked as if Atlanta had scored a second goal, but it was ruled offsides on the field. Video review was unable to overturn the call…attendance was announced as 42,817.
