For Justin Morrow, the difference between Toronto FC and the Seattle Sounders in last year’s MLS Cup final could be counted in inches.
The stalwart defender was coming off a career year last December when he stepped up to take Toronto FC’s sixth, and ultimately final, penalty in the shootout that decided who would take home the league title.
Morrow, always known for his solid defensive work, had five goals and five assists over the course of regular season and the playoffs in 2016, his best offensive output ever.
But at the eleventh hour, Morrow’s penalty shot bounced off Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Frei’s crossbar, the ensuing ping devastating the BMO Field crowd.