When Hernán Losada took charge of D.C. United he used a dramatic quote: “I’d rather win 5-4 than 1-0”. Upon his arrival at the helm of CF Montreal, he made the same speech, mentioning wanting to inject a dose of verticality and maintain an offensive game identity.

So what happened when his troopers crossed swords with his former club? The Impact was shut out for the sixth time in seven games in a disjointed and soporific game. He ultimately bowed out 1-0 on Saturday night when he returned to Stade Saputo.

In 542 minutes of 11-on-11 play – the equivalent of nearly three viewings of the second film in the Avatar series – Washington scored just one goal. And it was a penalty.

What galvanized the crowd the most during the duel against Wayne Rooney’s men was the fall of Chinonso Offor in the visitors’ box which could have led to a penalty. The few moments of madness of the newcomer, Bryce Duke, also aroused passions.

However, the ingredients were gathered at the Saputo stadium to help the Montreal eleven to turn the tide. Under perfect weather, a busy stadium and the relentless support of the Impact Montreal collective, the CFM fell flat.

Long balls in depth, an isolated and exceeded Offor summed up the tactics of the Montrealers against one of the worst formations on the circuit. CFM will get their chance to rock the ropes on Tuesday as they take on Vaughan SC, a Ligue 1 club from Ontario at the Canadian Championship.