It was inevitable and predictable.
The signs were there from the last 10 games of the season, where the Montreal Impact were 2-2-8, a team full of confidence and to great things abruptly change course and inevitably crash. It's not the way you want to get into playoffs. The Impact's road woes continued despite a strong start to the game in the first 15 minutes. Afterwards Houston took over and it went downhill from there.
Surprisingly Nelson Rivas was a starter, not having played since over a year ago due to injury. He was up to his old self playing a very tough brand of soccer which ultimately led to his ejection with his second yellow card of the match at the 70th minute. Two key players were injured which didn't help the Impact's cause - Nesta and Bernier.
The defence had a difficult time containing an energetic Dynamo team, particularly Bruin with his two goals at the 16th and 72nd minute. The third goal was a PK converted by Garcia at the 27th minute.
Frustration was evident and it looked like the team just gave up and let out the anger by ending the game with 3 red cards. This unsportsmanlike behaviour just added to the already miserable end to the season, and showed a lack of class by the players and the organization. Andres Romero kicked Kofi Sarkodie which then led to a confrontation between Di Vaio and Ashe. Both Di Vaio and Romero were red carded in the aftermath.
The Houston Dynamo will now face the NY Red Bulls in the eastern semi-final.
As for the Montreal Impact, the off season will be fascinating to look, as many tough decisions will need to be made regarding coach Schallibaum and the roster. Speculation will be rampant on the coach's return and what the team will decide to do with the players. One thing for sure, many changes are expected.
Info courtesy of montrealimpact.com