By RYAN TOLMICH
Jermain Defoe scored his third goal in his first two games as a member of Toronto FC to lead his new club Saturday to a 1-0 victory over D.C. United at BMO Field.
Defoe’s 60th minute finish proved to be just enough for the hosts, whose counterattack threatened throughout the afternoon. Michael Bradley led the build-up to Defoe’s game-winning finish, as the American found a streaking Gilberto deep in D.C. territory. The Brazilian designated player had his shot stopped by goalkeeper Bill Hamid, but the ensuing rebound found its way to the former Tottenham Hotspur striker, who calmly found the back of the open net.
Defoe’s goal was the culmination of a counterattacking effort that gave D.C. United fits all game. Alvaro Rey dribbled around D.C. defenders at will, while Defoe had his fair share of chances on the afternoon, including a flick past Hamid that hit the right post.
Bradley’s play in the midfield also caused problems for the opposing defense throughout the game. The 26-year-old’s passing skill was on full display, as the American international played distributor with a series of through balls that opened up the D.C. defense.
The most worrying moment of the game for the hosts was a second half collision between Bradley and Davy Arnaud. The American midfielders butted heads while contending for a ball in the midfield, leading to Arnaud being taken off. Bradley bled from the side of his head, but continued after being bandaged up on the sidelines.
Overall, it was yet another strong performance from Toronto FC, who have earned the full six points from their first two contests. TFC will look to continue their perfect start when they head to Rio Tinto Stadium to take on Real Salt Lake next week. Meanwhile, D.C. United will look to pick up their first points of the season when they host the Chicago Fire Saturday.
Here are the match highlights: