NYCFC weren't able to take the full three points at Yankee Stadium against a Toronto side that came into the match tied for the Eastern Conference lead.
The desire from players on both sides to get back to the action after a long international break was on full display in a fast-paced, end-to-end battle that wasn't decided until the very end.
NYCFC Head Coach Patrick Vieira was well aware of how this would impact his players physically, and with another match against a top-quality side coming up this weekend, wasn't afraid to be frank about his tactical choices.