ATLANTA, GA–Atlanta United gave a boost to their playoff hopes with a 4-2 win over fellow playoff challengers Toronto FC. The Five Stripes are now five points adrift of the seventh and final playoff spot in the East with four teams to pass. Toronto slip to 13th and seven points adrift in the East.
Juan Jose Purata scored a hat trick in this contest starting with a goal in the 49th minute. Ayo Akinola equalized for TFC in the 52nd minute. However, Purata struck again the 62nd minute. TFC equalized again from the spot courtesy of Federico Bernadeschi. Thiago, though, would put Atlanta up for good in the 74th minute from distance before Purata completed his hat trick.
Jim Staap is our photographer in Atlanta and a sample of his work can be seen below with more by clicking on the link:
Atlanta United
Toronto FC
