Despite loss, Impact four points away from playoffs
Three games. Three little games to erase a four-point gap with the New York Red Bulls and get access to the MLS Cup playoffs. It’s still a possibility for the Impact, but it’s getting late.
In a competitive Eastern Conference – Vancouver Whitecaps FC, first in the West, would sit fifth on our side – of which the top four has already clinched their playoff berths, Montreal’s hopes start in Colorado, on Saturday, in a rare matchup against the Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, at 9pm (TVA Sports, CJAD 800), but also sit, and maybe mostly, on the lap of the Red Bulls’ upcoming opponents: compatriots from Toronto and Vancouver face Jesse Marsch’s team before Atlanta United FC and their D.C. United rival, who benefited from an own goal in stoppage time to bring back a point from New Jersey.
After the Colorado Rapids this weekend, the Impact still has to visit BMO Field for the last (?) rivalry game against Toronto FC, and will also host New England Revolution at Stade Saputo.
Here are the different scenarios that need to happen for the Impact to make the playoffs.
Nine points for Impact and less than six for Red Bulls;
Seven points for Impact and three draws for Red Bulls (a win would mean the tie break goes to goal differential, which is not favourable for the Impact right now);
Six points for Impact and less than three for Red Bulls;
Five points for Impact and none for Red Bulls;
Four points for Impact, none for Red Bulls and favourable goal differential for Montreal.
Thus, if the Red Bulls prevail in Toronto and the Impact loses in the Rockies, it will be done and dusted.
