Seattle's slow start set to continue at Impact

MLS
Sky Sports 4, midnight Saturday

MLS champions Seattle showed signs of a hangover from last season in week one as they were defeated 2-1 at Houston.

It took until Clint Dempsey’s 58th-minute strike to kick-start the uncharacteristically lethargic Sounders into life in the season opener but things are unlikely to get any easier for Brian Schmetzer’s side when they visit Montreal.

They have a poor record against the Impact – losing three of their previous four meetings – and the Canadians will no doubt be keen to atone for their own week one defeat at San Jose.

Like Seattle, Montreal were poor for large periods of their opening 1-0 defeat but the fixture should have blown away any rustiness and an improved display is expected in front of their home fans.

Matteo Mancosu led the line in week one for Impact, and although he didn’t score against the Earthquakes he should be given another chance to shine this time around.

The Italian, who joined from Bologna last July, netted seven goals in 20 starts last term including four in five playoff games which helped take the Impact to the Eastern Conference final.

Montreal’s threat doesn’t stop there with Ignacio Piatti sure to be their main man again this season.

The Argentinian netted 21 times last season and could enjoy himself against a Seattle defence, who like last term, look to be taking their time to adjust to the pace of the regular season.

Recommendation
Montreal
1pt 29-20 Hills