Posted by

Harjeet Johal ,

March 28, 2017 Twitter

@HarJournalist

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VANCOUVER, B.C - Toronto FC will to return to BMO Field on Friday night as they host Sporting Kansas City in their home opener. Toronto FC kicked off the 2017 MLS season on the road with a 1-0-2 record following matches against Real Salt Lake, Philadelphia Union, and a 2-0 win over Canadian rivals Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday, March 18.



Jozy Altidore is looking forward to getting back to business in front of a home crowd.



"I'm really excited," said Altidore. "To finish up the road like we did, we set ourselves up for a big home opener, an exciting game, and one we'll be ready for."



In a crowded sports market where you have the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Toronto Raptors both looking to secure playoff spots, it can be a bit of a tussle for attention from fans, media, and casual observers. You've also got the Toronto Blue Jays who open up their season on April 3 in Baltimore. The Six is a massive sports landscape where everyone wants a piece of the pie.



The 27 year-old Altidore isn't concerned with front page press and who gets first dibs on highlight shows. He knows that hardcore Toronto FC fans who have always stuck by the team will be excited to see the team in action. Bringing in new fans who jumped aboard the teams run to the MLS Cup last December can only help grow the teams fan base.



"I think Toronto is a really good sports town," revealed Altidore. "Whether it be us, Leafs, Raptors or Blue Jays, the fans come out and support. Now that they have teams that are competitive, I don't think you'll see the fan support die. I think it's only going to get better."



It's early days, but Toronto FC have shown that they can keep pace and fill the net with regularity. An injured Sebastian Giovinco caused no hurdles for Toronto in Vancouver. The offence continues to create and distribute. Along with Altidore, Victor Vazquez, Justin Morrow, Jonathan Osorio, and Raheem Edwards have helped with offence contributions this season. Toronto FC continue to show everyone that they aren't just a one man team.



"I think we've proved that a few times," admitted Altidore. "I don't think anybody is really worried about what people say on the outside. We know what we can do here. We have guys that are able to come in on any given day and give us something."



The MLS eastern conference may have a new contender with Atlanta United FC, but when it comes down to it in the crunch, the likes of Toronto FC, New York Red Bulls, New York City FC, and Columbus Crew will be in the thick of things fighting for top spot. Toronto doesn't need to send reminders, they've become a team opponents want to measure up to and beat.



"I think the message was sent a little while ago, to be honest with you," said Altidore. "I don't think anybody's going to be surprised by us. We got to the final last year. There ain't no surprises about what we're about. I think everybody knows kind of what to expect from us. It's on us to make sure we keep going and try to find a new level."



Toronto FC will look to make BMO Field a fortress this season. It starts on Friday vs Sporting Kansas City. Getting back to the MLS Cup final is a long journey, but Toronto FC have all the tools to do so, and get a different result.