Despite Marquez's effort, Metro rescues a point
October 1, 2011
What has been the linking factor in Metro's last four wins? What about in their last four shutouts? The answer is simple: Rafa Marquez did not play in those games. But tonight he did, and Metro paid dearly, as the overpaid bum made a huge mistake that put Metro behind Toronto. Titi Henry evened it late at 1:1, as the game turned when Marquez was subbed out.
Roy Miller, returning from injury, replaced Carlos Mendes at left back. The only other change was the benching of Dax McCarty for Marquez in midfield... because face it, if Rafa Marquez is on your squad, he MUST be on the field. Right? Right? Even though he lost his starting defender slot to Stephen Keel, someone who was deemed not good enough for expansion team. Anyway...
The first half was a lifeless affair, with little from either side. The best chance came late in the period, when a Luke Rodgers header from a Miller cross was parried by the Toronto goalkeeper.
And in the 50th minute, it was Marquez time. The Mexican, who has described himself as playing on the highest level, made a casual pass in center of midfield that landed at the feet of an opponent. Toronto went the other way, with Marquez jogging behind the play, possibly admiring the lush green color of the turf. The offside trap was barely beat, Danny Koevermans scored, and Metro was down. Highest level indeed.
Metro had their chances after that, with Henry finding Rodgers with a perfectly-placed through ball, but the bald Englishman took an extra step, and missed with his shot. Marquez did make a contribution, flopping in the box to no avail, before making his way for McCarty.
And then, the game turned. Juan Agudelo headed a corner just wide after coming in as a substitute, and Henry couldn't connect soon after. Then, two minutes from time, McCarty took a corner kick, the ball bounced in the box and got to Titi. The Frenchman switched the ball from his right to his left, and placed it into the net to tie the game.
Metro now faces the last three games of the season where dropping points is no longer the option. The season is not lost yet... But if Marquez continues to play, it might as well be.
Lineup: Rost, Miller, Ream, Keel, Solli, Tainio, Marquez, Lindpere, Richards, Rodgers, Henry. Subs: McCarty, Agudelo.
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