Altidore antagonizing as the TFC-Impact rivalry renews
Toronto striker says he would love it if Montreal was to miss the MLS playoffs at the Reds’ expense
MONTREAL— Jozy Altidore says he has great respect for the Impact, but the Toronto FC striker would also love to spoil Montreal’s season.
The first-place Reds (15-3-8), who have their sights set on breaking the Major League Soccer record for points in a season, play three of their final eight regularseason games against the Impact (108-6), who are clinging to the sixth and final Eastern Conference playoff spot.
The first clash is Sunday afternoon at Saputo Stadium. They also meet Sept. 20 and Oct. 15 in Toronto.
“It’s a great rivalry,” Altidore told reporters Friday. “It’s a good team. They have great fans, but I’d love it if they missed the playoffs at our expense. That would be beautiful.”
Montreal coach Mauro Biello didn’t rule out using that as bulletin board material, but emotions are always high when the two sides meet.
“Obviously they want to put us out because I don’t think they’re going to want to face us again in the playoffs, and that’s normal,” Biello said.
“At the same time, we’re going to focus on this game. We’ll let the field do the talking. For us, it’s important to stay fo- cused.”
The ingredients are there for a classic derby match.
After a slow start to the season, the Impact have won four games in a row, outscoring their opponents 11-2. They are healthy and star players Ignacio Piatti, with four goals in his last two outings and six in his last four, and Blerim Dzemaili are hot.
New defensive midfielder Samuel Piette has been a difference maker with his energy and ability to cover a wide area in front of the defence.