Toronto FC head coach Robin Fraser has praised forward Daniel Salloi’s impact this season ahead of their crucial clash with the Columbus Crew.
The Reds are in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, tied with ninth-place New York Red Bulls, who currently hold the final postseason spot and just one point ahead of Columbus.
Toronto took a big step towards a play-off spot with a 2-0 win over the Red Bulls last time out, with Salloi scoring the second goal to secure all three points.
In his first season with the Reds, Salloi scored eight goals and provided seven assists, directly contributing to more goals than his teammates.
Frazier was praised for leading the offense, especially after Toronto’s early-season injuries.
“Daniel has been great for us all year,” Frazier said.
“I think at the beginning of the year when we were going through those kinds of injuries, Daniel was scoring a bunch of goals for us and really keeping us in games and winning games for us.
“He’s been fantastic all year and whatever role he’s been in, whether it’s off the bench or from the start, he’s been a huge contributor for us and we’re delighted to have him.”
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Columbus’ improving MLS form continued as they beat FC Cincinnati 2-0 on the road last time out.
However, their momentum took a major hit on Wednesday when they lost on penalties in the US Open Cup final against St. Louis City.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Columbus Crew – Gonzalo Tapia
Tapia scored and assisted in the Crew’s win over Cincinnati, his second such MLS appearance since joining the club in the summer.
He scored on his only drive against Cincinnati while also leading his teammates in rushing touchdowns (four) and receiving yards (four).
Toronto FC – Jonathan Osorio
Osorio assisted on Salloi’s strike for Toronto in the win over the Red Bulls.
The midfielder also led Toronto in chances created (two), touches (49), passes completed (26), possessions won (eight) and interceptions (four).
MATCH PREDICTION: COLUMBUS CREW IS CHEATED
Columbus has won four of its last five league games; only Nashville SC and Philadelphia Union (both 13) have scored more points in their last five games.
Toronto is also in good form, with the Reds unbeaten in their last three MLS games (2 D1) in this playoff round.
Host Columbus has seven wins, two draws and six losses in 15 MLS contests at home this season. Toronto has three wins, three draws and eight losses away from home in league matches this season.
Toronto won the last meeting between these two sides, winning 2-1 at home in March.
OPTA WIN probability
Columbus Crew – 54.2%
Win – 23.5%
Toronto FC – 22.3%