Impact Faces FC Dallas on Wednesday
March 1, 2011 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Montreal Impact News Release
CASA GRANDE, Arizona - The Montreal Impact will wrap up its preseason tour in Arizona with a match against FC Dallas at the Reach 11 Complex, near Phoenix, Wednesday at 6pm (Eastern time). This will be the Impact's third and final exhibition match in Arizona versus MLS clubs.
In the first two matches, Montreal lost 1-0 to Portland and 2-0 to Sporting Kansas City, two clubs that will start the 2011 season in Major League Soccer, which kicks off in two weeks.
"We are part of a winning organization and always want to win our matches, but even with the two losses, we are happy with our camp so far because the team's level of preparation is the most important thing," said Impact head coach Marc Dos Santos. "We have to focus on the positives and on what we have managed to improve during our time in Arizona. This is a stronger group that has clearly grown together."
"The results are not important because we are still not at our best physically," reiterated team captain Nevio Pizzolitto. "Playing matches against high-level opponents like this is an excellent way to prepare. It allows everyone to better understand the system."
This third match will be a good test for the Impact. FC Dallas was a finalist in the MLS Cup during last year's playoffs.
"This will be another good test that will allow us to judge our progression so far," noted veteran midfielder Leonardo Di Lorenzo. "We have a great chance to play one of the best clubs in MLS."
"We've had a good camp in Arizona so far," added Pizzolitto. "When you add new players, there is always a lot of work to be done in order to get everyone on the same page. We have players who are eager to learn in an effort to be a part of this team. My role is to help the guys bond a little. The important thing right now is to just enjoy ourselves and regain our form."
The club will return to Montreal on Thursday. After taking a week off, the team will resume training on March 14 at the Bell Sports Complex, in Brossard.
Montreal kicks off the 18th season in club history on April 9 in Tampa Bay and will play its home opener at Saputo Stadium on April 23, once again versus Tampa Bay.
Season tickets are currently available through the club ¬â¢s website impactmontreal.com and through the club ¬â¢s ticket office, by calling 514-328-3668. All 2011 season ticket holders will automatically be granted priority on their seats for Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2012.
North American Soccer League Stories from March 1, 2011
- Impact Faces FC Dallas on Wednesday - Montreal Impact
- FC Edmonton Keeps Growing - FC Edmonton
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
