Robin Fraser Knows Toronto FC Must Control Atlanta

Toronto FC cannot wait for chances to fall their way. Robin Fraser knows his team needs to drive the action when they visit Atlanta United on Sunday. The coach wants his side to dominate the ball and build attacks from their own half. This shift is not just a tactical tweak. It is a survival requirement for a team that has struggled to find consistency.

Fraser told reporters on Friday that relying on second balls is not a winning plan. “It’s very important because if you put together good buildouts or good attacks, you find guys in positions with time, and then you’re able to actually set up your final part of your attack,” Fraser told reporters including Waking the Red on Friday. The Red Bulls have scored only two goals in their last three matches on target. Two of those shots went into the net of Sean Johnson. The third hit the post before Josh Sargent scored the winner. Toronto needs more than lucky bounces to beat Atlanta’s high-powered offense.

Sargent Finds His Stride at the Right Time

Josh Sargent is heating up exactly when Toronto needs him most. For the first time with the club in his career, he has now scored in consecutive matches. This form could be the difference maker in a tight Eastern Conference race. Richie Laryea sees the impact Sargent is making on the squad. “Josh has been a big and a really good addition for the team since he’s joined,” Laryea said, according to Waking The Red. If Sargent scores again, he would join a rare group of players to reach this milestone for TFC.

The striker is also doing the dirty work on defense. He gets involved in both goals and helps on the other side of the ball. His teammates are counting on him for the final stretch. “He’s been great for us, we’re happy that he’s in this form right now because it’s going to be important for us for these next two games for sure.” This level of production is what Toronto lacks when they sit back and wait. They need a player who can create chaos and finish the job.

Atlanta’s Attack Looms Large

Atlanta United might sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, but their attack is still dangerous. In his last four matches, Breel Embolo has three goals. Miguel Almiron and Aleksei Miranchuk are also ready to strike. Stopping these three will be the main job for the Toronto backline. If the visitors do not control the pace, they will face a constant barrage of shots.

Fraser wants his team to slow the game down if necessary. They cannot let Atlanta set the rhythm. The match on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium will test this plan immediately. Toronto has two games left to fight for a spot.