The Montreal Impact got back to winning ways on Saturday, riding goals on either side of halftime from Saphir Taider and Ignacio Piatti to a 2-0 win over the struggling San Jose Earthquakes.
After an early penalty shout for San Jose's Vako, the Impact took an early lead through Taider. Matteo Mancosu found Piatti in the box, and the Argentinean in turn worked the ball to the far post, where Taider was able to slot it home with his left foot.
Though Jahmir Hyka – making just his second start of the year – had two good looks for the Quakes, the real fireworks for the visiting side came from the a pair of substitutions. Anibal Godoy was subbed off four minutes before halftime and headed straight down the tunnel, and his replacement, Fatai Alashe, was removed after having initially taken the field to start the second half, was pulled with what the Quakes said was a groin strain before the opening whistle blew, and had an animated discussion with head coach Mikael Stahre before taking his seat on the bench.
Piatti added the Impact's second after Alejandro Silva worked inside from the right and found the playmaker open at the top of the area. Piatti picked his spot and slotted it past Andrew Tarbell for his 10th goal of the campaign.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: The Impact remained on the right side of the playoff line by continuing their home dominance. They have now won five in a row at Stade Saputo and could increase their buffer if other results fall their way. While Piatti's output is nothing new, their recent run has been fueled in large part by Taider's contributions, as the Algerian now has two goals and three assists in his last six games. The Quakes, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom of the Western Conference and will have plenty of questions to face after the halftime sub hubbub.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: Taider's early goal was crucial in opening up the game and allowing the Impact to play more freely.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: Despite getting some rough treatment from the Quakes defenders, Ignacio Piatti was again superb for the Impact. He delivered a goal and an assist, along with a healthy dose of the skill checks we've all come to love him for.
Next Up
- Montreal: Saturday, July 21 at Portland (11 pm ET | TVAS - full TV & streaming info)
- San Jose: Wednseday, July 25 vs. Seattle (10:30 pm ET | Full TV & streaming info)
