The Puerto Rico Islanders host the MLS-Bound Montreal Impact this Wednesday, September 7th at the Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium. The Islanders are the only team in the league to boast a home undefeated season in the NASL. With a win on Wednesday, the Islanders will clinch a first round bye in the playoffs. Kickoff is set for 7:30pm.
About the Islanders
The Orange Troop is coming off their first loss in five games, falling to the Atlanta Silverbacks 2-0 last Saturday at Silverbacks Park. The Islanders were playing without eight players who were not available due to CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying. Puerto Rico was without some of its key players like Jonathan Fana, who was representing the Dominican Republic, Gregory Richardson who was representing the country of Guyana, and six other players, including team Captain Noah Delgado, who are currently playing for the Puerto Rico national team.
This is the fourth and final meeting between these two clubs. Both teams share a victory on their home field and a draw on 6/29 at Saputo Stadium.
About the Impact
The Montreal Impact is currently in seventh place, four points outside the last place playoff spot. The Impact fell to the Fort Lauderdale Strikers last Saturday 1-0. The Impact has only lost one game in the last five matches including an away victory over the NSC Minnesota Stars. The Impact will join the MLS next season.
First Round Bye
The Islanders can clinch a first round bye with a win over the Montreal Impact. Puerto Rico can also secure a bye with a draw or a loss from FC Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay plays the NSC Minnesota Stars tonight at the National Sports Center.
