FC Dallas Head North And Struggle

Toronto calmy dispatched visiting FC Dallas, 3-1, continuing to mount questions for the squad from Frisco.

Let’s start with a quote.

“That call was really harsh. It's really really unfair. These guys do not deserve that call.”

FC Dallas head coach Nico Estevez was clearafter the match that he was unhappy with the referee's decisions as the team flew into Toronto to face the resurgent Canadian side.

For fans, stepping back from overall performance, the comments might seem over the top. For clarity, FC Dallas started the matching in their 3-4-2-1 (or however you want to characterize it) and looked poised to find a draw. That’s not to say the team wasn’t hoping to open up a scoring opportunity. However, with Jesus Ferreira not starting nor Asier Illarramendi, it was hard to imagine this lineup dominating. They only managed two shots on the goal the entire game.

Sam Junqua slotted home a minor consolation game, but Dallas was already down by 3 at that point.

When Toronto found a go-ahead penalty kick early on, Nico felt like that single decision swayed the result of the match.

That raises questions.

It raises questions about the team's leadership and about a coach who may be out of his element.

I want to be clear. I like Nico. He, like Luchi, brings a lot of positive energy and seems eager to answer questions. But when your team comes out with a performance on the road and manages two shots on goal, there are major structural issues to consider. If your roster stinks, it’s up to you to change it. If you can’t score goals, it’s up to you to adjust.

On Saturday night, as Toronto easily dispatched the visitors, fans don’t have much to be excited about. Will FC Dallas turn it around? If Nico wants every call to go his way in this league, the hopes are dim. Major League Soccer doesn’t work like that. Every team faces hard realities.

For now, FC Dallas remains poised for a forgettable season.

Will Nico change it?