We know; the mere fact that your team is back in action is reason enough to go to the Olympic Stadium, this Saturday, when the Montreal Impact takes on the New York Red Bulls at 4pm. But we’re such a kind bunch, we’re giving you 12 more good reasons why you should join us (buy your tickets now!).
Mauro Biello’s team
With his technical staff hailing almost exclusively from Quebec, Mauro Biello – the first Montrealer to become head coach in MLS, has finished his first preseason in this role. After several seasons as an assistant, Biello can now build a truly ‘Biello’ team, working within his principles. What are these principles? Saturday’s game will be the first opportunity to find out at home.
Easy access – and be there early!
Mass transit is an inexpensive and easy way to get to the Olympic Stadium (Pie-IX station, green line, or bus lines 97, 139 and 185). It’ll be crowded, so get there early! According to weather specialists, it’ll be sunny, with temperatures in the 10-degree range, outside the stadium in the hours leading to the game. Take advantage of this, and get some sunshine around the Big O!
Reserve your spot in the Top 3!
Montreal, the challenge is on. We can crack the top 3 attendances for home openers in MLS this season. We can’t miss out on this!
Pregame events not to be missed
If past Impact seasons are any indication, the spectacle in the stands before the 4pm kickoff should be impressive. Various supporters groups usually strive to make the home opener memorable. And a birdie told us that the pregame presentation should be a sight to behold…
First impression of Harry Shipp and Lucas Ontivero
The Impact only played one preseason game in Montreal this year, against FC Montreal. That morning, Lucas Ontivero stayed off the Olympic Stadium turf as a precautionary measure, while Harry Shipp learned hours later that he was off to Montreal. This Saturday’s game is thus the first opportunity to watch them live in Montreal.
The new jersey
This is it! You can now see your team play with the new jersey that was unveiled last month. And when you buy the jersey at one of the Olympic Stadium boutiques, this Saturday, you’ll get a $15 coupon for the Stade Saputo boutique.
Supporters’ Shield champs are in town
The Impact’s home schedule starts with a bang: the reigning Supporters’ Shield champions are coming to town. The New York Red Bulls picked up 18 wins, suffered 10 losses and tied 6 games for 60 points in 2015 before losing to Columbus Crew SC in the Eastern Conference Final.
Familiar faces
Some names on the Red Bulls roster and technical staff are already familiar to Montrealers. Brazilian midfielder Felipe started his North American career with the Impact. Terrebonne's Karl W. Ouimette has moved on since he signed with Montreal as a Homegrown Player, but he maintains strong ties with his home area. Three Red Bulls coaches were also part of the first Impact technical staff in MLS: Jesse Marsch (head coach), Denis Hamlett (assistant coach) and Preston Burpo (goalkeeper coach).
Free giveaways
Obviously, you’ll be returning home happy, but we’ll still try to brighten your day even more. That’s why Impact partners BMO Financial Group will give away free calendars to fans when you exit the Olympic Stadium.
An opportunity to reverse the trend
Last season, an Impact player was sent off in both of the first team’s games against the Red Bulls, a home tie and an away loss. After such an exquisite start to the season last Sunday at Vancouver, the Impact is ready to build on their efforts and reverse the trend against New York.
Nacho Piatti
Words don’t do him justice…
The best show in town
World class players. Exciting product on the field. Affordable price. Active and committed supporters. Is there any doubt that the Montreal Impact gives the best show in town?
