On the eve of the World Cup final the Montreal Impact faced defending MLS Champions Sporting KC at Stade Saputo. Any momentum the Impact had built up at the start of July has been dashed with two heartbreaking losses in the last two weeks. A communication error between Heath Pearce and keeper Troy Perkins handed Sporting KC a 2-1 victory in the 89th minute. Marco Di Vaio scored the lone goal for Montreal in the 28th minute.
Off Game for Keeper Troy Perkins:
This second consecutive loss leaves the Impact in last place in the MLS, and the playoffs almost out of reach. The game on Saturday was arguably Tory Perkins worst match as the Montreal Impact keeper, as he was constantly fighting with goal kicks and clearances all match. With the mix up at the end of the game with Heath Pearce one has to wonder if backup keeper Evan Bush will receive any playing time in the upcoming weeks. Bush has been excellent in all cup matches he has started over the course of the past two seasons.
The End of Samba:
After a promising rookie season, Brazilian midfielder Felipe continues to struggle. With new DP Piatti joining the Impact in August, it will be interesting to see if Felipe will still have a spot in the starting eleven. Felipe lacks the physicality and vision needed to be a starting midfielder in the MLS, and this is being reinforced on a weekly basis. The league has been improving over the last two seasons, unfortunately it appears Felipe has plateaued.
New Manager is No … José Mourinho:
Frank Klopas has been juggling the lineup all season trying to find a solid starting eleven. However, many question his selections and his sometimes bizarre in-game substitutions. Another example of this was on display Saturday night when in the 87th minute defensive midfielder Calum Mallace was brought in to replace Jack McInerney. With the game still in the balance, you could almost hear the collective groan from the crowd at Stade Saputo. Two minutes later the groans turned to boos and jeers after the home team conceded the winning goal.
Król to the Rescue ?
Going into this weekends match against the Columbus Crew, the Impact do have one positive going for them. The play of new signing Krzysztof Król was promising at left back. The Polish defender brought a physical presence to the game and plays a strong ariel game. If nothing else, the Impact must start mentally preparing themselves for the CONCACAF Champions League starting in August.
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Main Photo USA Today Sports
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