Defense rules as CF Montreal, Charlotte FC draw 0-0

CF Montreal secured its third consecutive shutout in a 0-0 draw with host Charlotte FC on Saturday night.

Jonathan Sirois made four saves for Montreal (8-9-2, 26 points), which had won its previous two shutouts.

Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina of Charlotte recorded three saves. Charlotte (6-8-6, 24 points) is winless in five matches (0-2-3), with the draws coming in their last three.

Offense hadn't been a major problem for Charlotte, so perhaps more emphasis on defense has been effective. But combined with Wednesday night's road tie against the New York Red Bulls, Charlotte has gone about 160 minutes without scoring.

The return of team scoring leader Karol Swiderski, who had been absent to compete for Poland's national team, wasn't enough to spring a goal. His header from the box late in the game provided a threat, however.

The defense was an upgrade for Charlotte, which hasn't won a home game since May 17. Since shutting out host LA Galaxy on May 27, the team had allowed 10 goals in four games.

Montreal had scored at least one goal in five of its previous six games.

Through 70 minutes, possession time was about even between the teams. Charlotte's advantage in possession across the final 20 minutes didn't result in a goal.

Charlotte had early defensive breakdowns, but stops by Kahlina bailed out the team. Sunusi Ibrahim and Jojea Kwizera each had a good chance within a minute of each other for Montreal.

Sirois matched those with a denial about 10 minutes into the second half.

Montreal will host New York City FC on July 1. Charlotte is idle until visiting New York City FC on July 5.