Toronto FC vs NYCFC: Three intriguing storylines to watch this weekend

Toronto FC is still in the process of figuring things out under new Head Coach Robin Fraser but its match on April 26th against New York City FC is an important one.

With the MLS transfer window closing yesterday, this will be Toronto's squad that will seek to climb up the MLS standings until the second transfer window opens in mid-July. With just one win in nine matches to date this season, the club need secure points quick if they do not want another campaign to fall apart quickly.

So, what are storylines to look out for during Saturday's match between Toronto FC and New York City FC?

1. Will Toronto's recent defensive form continue?

Toronto FC began the season conceding 12 goals in just five matches which resulted in them losing four of those matches. However, Toronto has been much better at keeping the ball out of its net in recent games, collecting three clean sheets in its last four matches. The run of form started with a 0-0 draw against the red-hot Vancouver Whitecaps on March 29th, where despite the Caps' best efforts to break the deadlock, keeper Sean Johnson and the rest of the backline stood tall.

Looking towards the opponents, New York City FC are averaging exactly a goal-per-match on the road this season, albeit three of those five goals came in a 4-3 loss to Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Toronto's recent turnaround in shipping goals is thanks in part to the play of Sigurd Rosted who despite having plenty of shaky moments during his time at BMO Field has looked much better in Fraser's 4-2-3-1 formation. Irish veteran Kevin Long will likely partner up again with Rosted against New York, with Nickseon Gomis' injury status unclear after missing the last two matches.