With the Montreal Impact coming off two road defeats, they return to Stade Saputo to face the Portland Timbers tonight. The Impact are on a four game losing streak and are desperately in need of points. The Timbers on the other hand are coming off a victory against the Colorado Rapids, however they are still sitting outside a playoff spot. Montreal Coach, Frank Klopas has been suspended for the match along with midfielder Nakajima-Farran after he received a red card in the match on Wednesday.
- Full 90 Minutes: Although the Impact have dropped four straight they have played stretches of good soccer. The problem is they need to be able to compete for 90 minutes. The Bleu Blanc Noir have dropped all four of these matches late in the game and need to find a way to finish out games stronger. With confidence at an all time low, leaders will have to emerge both on and off the field to help push the team a little bit further.
- Squad Rotation: With the Impact playing on Wednesday night in Salt Lake City, there might be a few changes in the lineup tonight. There is potential for Futty Danso to feature in the lineup. It would be Danso’s first appearance since joining the Impact in June, and it would be against his former team. Although Klopas has been loyal to the Pearce-Ferrari pairing, the duo may need a break this evening. First team keeper Troy Perkins may also return to the net tonight for the Impact, after Evan Bush received the last two starts.
- Midfield Solution: The Montreal midfield has not been good enough this season. Specifically Felipe has struggled in his attacking midfield position. His inefficient play as hurt the team as he is unable to get the ball to Marco Di Vaio or Jack McInerney on a consistent basis. The Brazilian has also struggled with winning the ball in the middle of the park. With Nakajima-Farran suspended tonight the midfield options will be thin.
- Champions League Approaching Fast: With the Champions League approaching fast (and the last gasp at saving this season) the Impact are trying to steady the ship. Confidence is at a low point, and it will be interesting to see if the Impact can get a positive result tonight without Frank Klopas on the bench.
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