Touchline Talk presented by Al-Flex
Inter Miami CF brought its unbeaten streak to five on Saturday, August 20, defeating Toronto FC 2-1 at DRV PNK Stadium. Goals from Heineken Man of the Match Jean Mota and Ariel Lassiter saw the Herons pick up another three points on their home turf.
Gonzalo Higuain made a slaloming run in the 24th minute in the Toronto FC third, laying the ball off for Mota to unleash a powerful shot that gave Inter Miami the lead. Mota’s goal was his second MLS goal of his career, and third overall this season. Mota finished the night with two shots on goal, a sterling 89.1% pass rate, and a key pass to earn Man of the Match honors. The midfielder also began the play that led to Ariel Lassiter’s goal. Lassiter’s goal was his second in the last two games, and brought his tally to three this season.
Damion Lowe, who assisted Lassiter’s strike, also played a key role in organizing a staunch Inter Miami defense that prevented Toronto from getting back into the game. Lowe took the time after the match to praise the defensive effort on the evening.
“It was a well-rounded effort. We grinded it out. We know that we control our own destiny. Once we win games, we’re going to move up. Today was a massive effort from everyone, from coaching staff and players to the fans that kept us in the game. We’re very grateful for the result today.”
The Jamaican defender also commented on the manner in which the team’s success throughout the season directly reflects the growing bonds within the team.
“We’ve built a culture, on and off the field. A brotherhood. Being your brother’s keeper, looking out for each other. It’s good because we know that even if we lose, we look forward to coming to work the next day. That’s the mentality we have. This is a massive club, and from day one, we knew that we wanted to be a top team in the league…The vibe in the locker room is that everyone is happy to come to work. Everyone, from the front office to the guys who fill the water bottles, is happy. It’s a good vibe in the club, and we just have to keep that going. Once you build that culture, you’re building a championship team.”
Lowe was also adamant in his resolve that the remainder of the season held more successes for Inter Miami, as the club aims to clinch a spot in the 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs.
“We’re hungry. We’re like someone that hasn’t eaten for weeks. That’s how bad we want this. We believe that we’re a top team. We’ve built a reputation at home. We’re a force to be reckoned with. We want this. Step by step, game by game, we’re fully focused.”
Head coach Phil Neville also commented on the team’s ever positive mentality; a mentality committed to constantly improving.
“I love it when a team comes in and they’ve won a game, and they fought, and they still think they can get better. I think that’s the profile and character of the players that we brought in. This team never quits. This team has got an incredible, incredible spirit.“
Inter Miami is back in action on the road on Saturday, August 27 against the New York Red Bulls. The match at Red Bull Arena kicks off at 7 p.m. ET, and will be streamed live on the Inter Miami App, My33 and UniMás.
