Revolution vs. Impact: Breaking Down Montreal's Game

The New England Revolution are flying high as a kite right now after winning six straight games, but that in no way means Saturday's game against the Montreal Impact will be a walk in the park.

In fact, Montreal is 1-0-2 in their last three games and seem a lock for the sixth and final playoff spot out of the Eastern Conference. In light of that, let's take a look at some of Montreal's strengths.

1.) The Drogba Effect:

After years of speculation that Didier Drogba would come stateside, the Ivory Coast international finally has pushed his way into MLS. And so far, the 37-year-old striker has lived up to his reputation and more.

All three of his goals for Montreal came in a singular match against the Chicago Fire, but Drogba's contributions to the Impact transcend any statistic. Think of how Jermaine Jones lifts the Revs in an intangible fashion; Drogba does the same for the Impact.

Whether it's dropping back into midfield to build an attack, holding the ball up through his imposing frame, or just raising the psyche of the Impact, Drogba's influence cannot be understated.

2.) The 'Keeper:

The Montreal Impact and solid goalkeeping have not been synonymous since the team entered MLS in 2012. However, Evan Bush has defied that stereotype this year.

He saves 69 percent of the shots that come his way and has posted 76 saves in 23 games played. Every once in a while he does stuff like this, too.

It’s plays like those that could make Charlie Davies or Juan Agudelo’s day difficult in front of goal, as Bush has the ability to sway the game in Montreal’s favor.

3.) The Argentine:

While Drogba has changed the way Montreal plays some, Mauro Biello’s side is still inherently dependent on the counter attack to spurn offensive chances. As is true to the attacking midfield position, Ignacio Piatti usually is the one driving those counter attacks.

He’s battled some injuries as of late, but should be given free reign to run rampant against the Revs, orchestrating advances through his creative might. He has a keen eye for a pass, much like Lee Nguyen, and can punish the Revs if they don’t close down his space on the ball.