ORLANDO, Fla. — The Montreal Impact missed their chance to lock up a playoff spot on Saturday.
The Impact, who needed a win to clinch, dropped a 2-1 decision to Orlando City but retained their hold of sixth place and the final playoff position with four games to go.
"We defended well and didn’t give up too many scoring chances," said Montreal captain Patrice Bernier. "It was a tight game that just tilted slightly for them. We gave it our all and now we have to forget about this loss quickly."
Seb Hines scored on a volley in the 80th minute as Orlando City avoided elimination from the playoff race.
Orlando City (11-13-8, 41 points) entered the game in seventh place, needing at least a tie to remain in the Eastern Conference playoff mix. It won its fourth straight and has two games remaining in the season.
Canadian Cyle Larin opened the scoring for Orlando in the 33rd minute, extending his rookie scoring record to 15 goals.
"We made a small mistake on the first goal, but we were in the game," said Montreal defender Laurent Ciman. "Then on the second goal, a bit of bad luck for us. We were good on our duels and had a good game, but we are a little disappointed."
Dominic Oduro tied it in the 43rd minute with a loose-ball finish. Orlando City goalkeeper Tally Hall was shown a yellow card for dissent. He argued that he had secured the ball before Oduro kicked it loose.
The Impact (12-12-6, 42 points) play the top club in the Eastern Conference on Wednesday when they visit the New York Red Bulls.
"I think it was a good effort in a difficult game and difficult atmosphere," said Impact head coach Mauro Biello. "In the second half, we created some chances and pushed forward. In the end, it wasn’t enough, but we have another big game to play on Wednesday."
Orlando City teammates, Tommy Redding and Rafael Ramos, suffered a head-to-head collision in the fourth minute. Both left the game on stretchers after a seven-minute delay.
