Toronto FC Hopes to End Winless Streak Against Real Salt Lake

Sandy, Utah — Toronto FC is on the brink of ending a winless streak that has lingered since September, as they prepare to face Real Salt Lake on Saturday night. The Reds have struggled to secure victories, but recent draws against top teams in Major League Soccer have offered fans a glimmer of hope.

Head Coach Robin Fraser expressed his eagerness to capture that elusive first win. “You can’t wait to get the first win,” Fraser said on Friday. “When you win your first game of the year, it’s the best feeling. When you’re into the ninth game and you haven’t won yet, then that monkey gets bigger, and it’s more like a gorilla now.”

Despite recent performances, the team is facing some injury woes. Forward Deandre Kerr will be sidelined for two months, adding to the mounting challenges for the club. Fraser was visibly distressed when discussing Kerr’s condition. “To be honest, I haven’t asked in a while, just because it’s been in my mind that this is two months down the road,” Fraser revealed. “So I don’t think he’s close.”

On a more promising note, Fraser stated that players Henry Wingo, Ola Brynhildsen, and Nickseon Gomis have made progress this week. “They’re doing some individual work and should get into team training tomorrow,” he said.

As Toronto FC readies for their encounter with Real Salt Lake, the altitude in Utah poses another hurdle. Fraser, familiar with the altitude effects as a former player with the Columbus Crew and managing the Colorado Rapids, noted, “I think that part of it is psychological. If you’re prepared and move well as a team, the altitude isn’t as penal as some people believe.”

Fraser also acknowledged the threat posed by Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna, praising the young player’s technical skills and engagement. “He’s really good,” Fraser said. “His engagement is excellent. He’s gone from being a young kid in that organization to really being the focal point of their attack.”

Toronto FC currently finds themselves at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference standings, and a lack of wins only heightens the looming shadow of another disappointing season. They sit at 14th place with just four points after eight matches, raising concerns among supporters about playoff prospects.

The Reds have recently drawn against strong opponents, showing improvement in defensive capabilities, but the offensive struggles remain palpable. The last three matches have yielded just one goal, leading to questions about the team’s attacking strategies.

“I think we’re seeing some fighting spirit,” Fraser said, reflecting on recent draws against teams in the top three of the conference. “It’s not just a case of being engaged but also executing effectively to convert those defenses into goals.”

As Toronto FC seeks to break their winless streak against Real Salt Lake, every match offers a critical opportunity for rebuilding confidence and addressing the team’s persistent issues. The upcoming game will serve as a litmus test for the squad’s resilience amidst adversity.