Toronto FC vs. Montreal Impact: 10 Bold Predictions
Oct 26, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC fans show their support during a game against the Montreal Impact at BMO Field.Toronto FC won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
The rivalry between Ontario and Quebec goes beyond sports up in Canada. It’s part of centuries of enmity and clean old-fashioned hate that has been well publicized in the form of numerous historical event. On Wednesday night at BMO Field in Toronto, Ont., another piece in this rivalry will commence with the first leg of the 2014 Amway Canadian Championship between Ryan Nelsen’s Toronto FC and Frank Klopas’s Montreal Impact.
Montreal are coming off a 5-4 aggregate victory over FC Edmonton, while Toronto FC disposed of the Vancouver Whitecaps on penalties 5-3 after a 3-3 draw. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET and will be televised by Sportsnet One. Here are 10 Bold Predictions for Wednesday night’s match between Toronto FC and the Montreal Impact.
1. Jermain Defoe will score
Four goals this season. Snubbed by Roy Hodgson. Active in Toronto’s 2-2 draw with Sporting Kansas City. You don’t think Jermain Defoe is motivated to do something? Oh yes, he’ll get on goal here.
2. Here comes Luke Moore
After coming in from Chivas USA, Luke Moore has rediscovered his scoring touch with two goals this season for Toronto FC. Watch for Moore to get in on goal in the first half.
3. No goals for Doneil Henry
Doneil Henry was the hero in Toronto’s semifinal victory over Vancouver, but against Montreal, it will be a different story. There will be no goals or assists for Henry in this game.
4. Bradley Orr will score
TFC midfielder Bradley Orr has had a strong showing this season in Major League Soccer. In the Canadian Championship final, his scoring touch will be needed. Watch for Orr to score in the second hald against Montreal.
5. Joe Bendik with at least five saves
Toronto goalkeeper Joe Bendik currently has four saves to his credit, and he should get the start in this first leg. Watch for Bendik to make at least five saves and frustrate the defending Voyageurs Cup holders.
Oct 26, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Montreal Impact fans show their support during the first half in a game against Toronto FC at BMO Field.Toronto FC won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
6. Evan Bush with at least five saves
Evan Bush has been starting in goal for Montreal in the Canadian Championship, and he should get the start on Wednesday. Bush should get at least five saves in this contest, as the shots on goal will be piling up.
7. Jack McInerney with a brace
Jack McInerney has helped carry the Impact on his shoulders in this tournament. Jack Mac currently has two goals this season in MLS play for Montreal and will have a big night on the road with a brace.
8. No goals for Patrice Bernier
Patrice Bernier was the hero in Montreal’s semifinal victory over Edmonton. However, Bernier will have to take a back seat in the first leg, as the Plex boldly predicts that there will be no goals from the Impact captain.
9. At least 40 fouls and five cards
This is a domestic cup final, and the play will be chippy with both Toronto and Montreal looking to get the edge over the other. At least 40 fouls will be whistled and at least five cards will be issued.
10. Toronto claim the ascendancy but at what price?
The first leg will go to Toronto FC, but since the away goals rule is in effect, the Montreal Impact will put themselves in a straightforward position heading into the second leg. Watch those goals fly in this one.
Toronto FC 3, Montreal Impact 2
10.