Seattle Sounders: 3 Keys Versus the Montreal Impact

Jul 25, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Seattle Sounders defender Osvaldo Alonso (6) holds off Montreal Impact forward Dominic Oduyo (7) in the second half at Stade Saputo. The Impact won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 25, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Seattle Sounders defender Osvaldo Alonso (6) holds off Montreal Impact forward Dominic Oduyo (7) in the second half at Stade Saputo. The Impact won 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Seattle Sounders
Jul 25, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact defender Laurent Ciman (23) is greeted by midfielder Ignacio Piatti (10 after scoring the winning goal against Seattle Sounders at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

1) Montreal’s psychological advantage

Since entering MLS in 2009, the Sounder have the second-most points in the league, so it stands to reason their head-to-head record versus most of the other teams is favorable. However, one of the few opponents that don’t fit into this category, are the Impact.

In four previous meeting, Montreal has won three of the four encounters, scoring six goals and allowing just three. In respect of this specific fixture, the Sounders lost the only previous clash at CenturyLink Field back in 2013, in their home-opener.

In theory, past results shouldn’t really have much bearing on Saturday’s game, but it’s surprising how certain teams can hold a psychological edge over you. Throw in the Sounders start to the season, and this game will give us a good indication of their mental fortitude.

Next: A couple of injury question marks