"It was amazing." That's how Toronto FC captain Jim Brennan described the support the team received at the season opener in Columbus. Over 2,400 TFC supporters made the journey to back the team and they turned Crew Stadium into a sea of red.
"To see that many fans follow us to an away game was very special," said Brennan. "The whole team appreciated it. I'm used to fans travelling to watch games from when I was in England, but they would just go two or three hours. To travel the distance to Columbus is amazing."
Brennan wants the TFC fans to know their support is appreciated by the players: "They got behind us and it really helped us out. We could hear them throughout the game and it makes a big difference. It really lifts everyone. They can play a big part this season. I'm just disappointed that we couldn't get a win for them."
TFC coach John Carver was also impressed: "I had heard all of the rumors about the fans and had seen what happened last season on television, so I wasn't surprised. I was just so disappointed we couldn't give them something to celebrate. The fans have a big part to play this season in helping us make BMO Field a fortress, and they are a big motivational tool for us."
"Having that many fans make the trip reminded me of when I was at Newcastle and the fans there followed the team everywhere," said Carver. "At home at St. James' Park they would make it an intimidating place and that's how I imagine it being here."
Carver was pleased with the way the team responded in training on Monday following Saturday's defeat. "It's a new week. You have to look forward to the next game. Everyone was positive and upbeat in training today. There were some good things to come from the game. The effort couldn't be faulted, we created chances, we just need to execute better. This team will evolve over the next month, we'll add to it and move in the right direction."
TFC's next game is at DC United on Saturday. Kick off is 730 p.m. live on Rogers Sportsnet (West and East).
