Toronto FC head to Montreal to take on the Impact in an all-Canadian clash on Saturday. Here are 3 things to look for ahead of the 401 derby.
Toronto FC travel to La belle province to take on arch-rivals Montreal Impact this Saturday at Stade Saputo. Both teams are coming off frustrating loses in league play. TFC’s defeat in LA to the Galaxy was typical. Toronto had the majority of the possession but failed to capitalize on the few half-chances they created before inevitably being undone by defensive errors.
Montreal’s narrow 3-2 loss to Minnesota United has been blamed on controversial penalty decisions in some quarters, but the Impact’s inability to deal with runs beyond their backline and wastefulness in front of goal surely did not help. Given last week’s results, Toronto and Montreal are separated by a just seven points in the Eastern Conference, which should add fuel to an ordinarily fiery affair.
Each side should be close to full strength for Saturday night’s match. Toronto FC center-back Drew Moor is still sidelined with a hamstring strain. However, key cogs Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore return from international duty and new signings Omar Gonzalez and Erickson Gallardo will be available for selection. Although the Montreal Impact are still without star winger Ignacio Piatti, Michael Azira and Daniel Lovitz’s returns from Gold Cup action bolster an otherwise healthy squad.
Here are three things to watch for heading into Saturday’s derby in Montreal.
3. Omar Gonzalez to make his debut
Despite signing with the Reds on June 3rd, Omar Gonzalez was not added to the roster until July 9th, the opening day of the second transfer window. But now, Greg Vanney may start Gonzalez against the Impact. During his press conference this past Tuesday, Vanney indicated that he wants his new-look defensive unit to gel quickly.
And for good reason. Toronto FC have been woeful on the defensive end this season, conceding 33 goals in 19 games, averaging 1.7 goals allowed per game. Through his experience and guidance, the U.S. International is expected to add stability to a backline prone to positional and individual mistakes.
Standing at 6’5, Gonzalez’s aerial presence should come in handy also. The Impact often play long balls to striker Maxi Urruti who contributes to his side’s attacks by holding up the ball and combining with his teammates. Gonzalez’s capacity to dominate in the air should see him neutralize Urruti in aerial battles, while his leadership, poise, and intelligence will enable him to instruct his fellow defenders to take up the correct positions when the ball is thumped their way. With one of the worst defensive records in the East, Vanney will be keen to integrate Gonzalez into his side.