The Canadian Championship edition of the 401 Derby has come to an end and Toronto FC are going to the final after a boring match against the Montreal Impact (who fielded DPs Lucas Ontivero and Didier Drogba). The Impact applied a great deal of pressure on TFC but once Ontivero was given a red card there wasn't much the Impact could do to overcome their 2 goal deficit.
The Opening 45
In an unexpected twist of events, the first half was a rather dull affair. Despite needing a pair of goals, the Impact seemed uninterested in landing any shots on target, preferring long shots. While they kept the ball in TFC's end, many of their chances either went wide or were knocked away by Clint Irwin. The frustration showed on the Impact, especially Drogba.
TFC meanwhile seemed unable to get anything going in the attacking end but were able to keep the Impact away from goal.
The Second Half
The Impact kept the pressure coming early in the second half but TFC kept them at bay. Ontivero seemed particularly dangerous, however, hope for the Impact died for the Impact in the 60th minute when DP Ontivero headbutted Will Johnson to earn a red card. From that point on, TFC were able to kill the remaining minutes to stop the Impact from reaching their forth straight Canadian Championship final.
While Sebastian Giovinco did enter the game in the 74th minute, TFC's non-DPs should take pride in winning this series with minimal help of their DPs. The Impact are a strong team and the youthful and largely Canadian TFC roster were able to win it.
Man of the Match
Benoît Cheyrou
Cheyrou shone bright and reminded everyone of just how good he is. He was key to killing several Impact chances.
Didier Drogba
Of every Impact player, Drogba wanted to win. He set-up several chances and had 7 of the Impact's 16 shots. Sadly, a Voyageurs Cup medal will not be taking a spot in his trophy room with his FA Cup, UEFA Champions' League and Premier League medals.
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