Atlanta United continued their impressive run as they eased past Montreal Impact 2-0 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, AJC reported. Goals from Hector Villalba (28') and Jeff Larentowicz (73') ensured the Five Stripes earn maximum points in front of their 43,305 home crowd. Gerardo Martino's side were dominant throughout the encounter and could have scored more goals especially in the second half when Josef Martinez had a clear shot blocked by the strong hands of Montreal goalie Evan Bush. Atlanta is third with forty-nine points, while Montreal Impact is seventh with thirty-nine points.
Here's the match report in detail.
Atlanta United outlook
Starting XI and individual performance points: Goalkeeper - Brad Guzan (6.90). Defender - Anton Walkes (7.20), Leandro Gonzalez Pirez (eight points), Michael Parkhurst (6.90), Chris McCann (7.45). Midfielder - Carlos Carmona (7.86), Jeff Larentowicz (8.10), Hector Villalba (8.12), Miguel Almirón (6.62), Yamil Asad (6.69). Forward - Josef Martínez (6.32). Used substitutes - Kevin Kratz (6.12), Kenwyne Jones (6.12) Julian Gressel (7.53).
Team's strength and weakness: Gerardo Martino's side often stole the ball from Montreal players and created a high number of opportunities when in possession.
Style of play: Atlanta United largely launched attacks from the left flank and favored through balls.
Montreal Impact outlook
Starting XI and performance points: Goalkeeper - Evan Bush (seven points). Defender - Víctor Cabrera (6.80), Laurent Ciman (658), Deian Boldor (6.20). Midfielder - Chris Duvall (6.30), Samuel Piette (six points), Patrice Bernier (six points), Daniel Lovitz (5.90), Blerim Dzemaili (six points). Forward - Ignacio Piatti (six points), Anthony Jackson-Hamel (5.82).
Used substitutes - Hernan Bernardello (5.90), Michael Salazar (5.74), Matteo Mancosu (5.79).
Team's strength and weakness: Montreal Impact's attackers were weak at scoring, often lost possession of the ball and committed several individual stumbles.
Style of play: Mauro Biello's side frequently operated through the right side, favored long-range shots and short passes.
Man of the Match
Atlanta's skillful midfielder Hector Villalba regularly overpowered and wrecked havoc on Montreal's defense. Villalba scored a goal and completed forty-five touches in the match.
Scheduled upcoming fixtures for both teams
Atlanta United will take on the Philadelphia Union on Thursday, September 28, while Montreal Impact welcomes New York City FC the same day.
