First lesson for Montreal Impact in MLS. Now the home opener

The first two errors in MLS were very expensive and unfortunately for the anxious fans they started early in the game. The Impact lost its first match 2-0 in Vancouver with goals from elite MLS forwards Sebastian LeToux and Camilo.


 




I'm going to analyze game, with the help of the Matchcenter chalkboard, and point out what I think could be improved for the next match.  


My first concern after this game is Justin Braun. The young forward was not at the level we all desired, at least for Jesse Marsch first scheme. He couldn't pivot the attack effectively, he didn't make a shot on goal in all game and he was unable to make a dangerous move or pass to feed the attacking midfielders. Unless Corradi is signed this week, I wouldn't be surprised if Wenger or even Sebrango start the next game.


Many people may argued the decision of Nyassi being chosen as the man of the match for the Impact in that game. Fans were not happy with the inaccuracy on his passing and the turnovers caused but, on the other side, his work rate and footprint on the pitch are undeniable covering twice the space Justin Braun covered. Also the Gambian recovered more balls than any other forward, including Whitecaps' 3 forwards,  and even more than Patrice Bernier who is supposed to lead the team in this category. That being said, we can expect better games for this player and most probably he should be in the starter eleven against Chicago.


Justin Mapp also had a weak performance being second with most unsuccessful passes in the team, one of them led to the second goal of the Whitecaps, and was the only player in the team with zero recoveries during the game something Marsch shouldn't be happy about. My opinion, won't start next game, specially if Sinisa Ubiparipovic is healthy or a chance is given to Lamar Neagle.


The duo Felipe-Bernier was not as effective as it was in preseason but they had a decent game. They rely on the team's offensive performance to look better but they did not dare enough to give them a try. I blame that to the nerves of the first kick but I have no doubt this duo will improve with the time.


The defensive line was very decent, the first goal was a matter of timing and that certainly will improve with time as well. What we should regret is the lack of intensity of Josh Garner in Camilo's goal, he could have done more in that play but overall this back line did many things right, specially when compared with this week LA Galaxy and NY Red Bulls defensive errors in their respective loses.


According to Marsch it won't be much changes in the starter eleven for the home opener and we, as fans, have to be ready to give them a second chance, in the Olympic Stadium,  to make things work. I am sure we will have a different discussion on Saturday evening after the match. 


You can watch the highlights here courtesy of MLSSOCCER.COM








Here are the highlights form the first week in MLS. For me Villar (FC Dallas vs NY) and Espindola (Real Salt Lake vs LA) are the two best goals of the week.