Despite the 2012 MLS campaign still being in its early stages, the Montreal Impact has had a few ups and downs.
After playing in front of a record crowd of 58, 912 spectators whom were privy to the team’s first ever goal in North America’s first division by Captain Davy Arnaud, the Impact fell to the Crew in Columbus after Jeb Brovsky was ejected in the first 20 minutes and a penalty kick was awarded 10 minutes later.
But Montreal head coach Jesse Marsch admitted that going through those challenges is what helps build character and brings a team closer together.
“Our team stuck together in tough moments,” said Marsch about last Saturday’s matchup. “That’s what becoming a team is about. The way we played with 10-men is a sign of who we are becoming.”
The Impact's chemistry will be tested as they team will be on the road to face the New York Red Bulls, on Saturday afternoon - a team that has won its last game 4-1 against the Colorado Rapids - followed by a trip to Salt Lake City, on Wednesday night.
The glue that will have to keep the team together is in goal. Jamaican international Donovan Ricketts had a strong outing against the Crew, making seven saves, one of which has been nominated for the MLSsoccer.com Save of the Week.
“Donovan showed why he is one of the premier goalies in the league,” added Marsch. “He came up big at times. He’s been sharp in training and he made some big saves [on Saturday].”
