Whitecaps Goalless Against MLS Rivals

The Whitecaps finished their second training trip set of matches in Arizona without a victory in four games including losing their last game today against LA Galaxy 2-0.  They failed to notch a single tally in their three matches against MLS opponents and were outscored five goals to nil.  The first squad played Friday against Chivas USA (1-0 L) and Monday against the Galaxy (2-0 L) while it was mostly a reserve squad on Saturday against the US U18 (2-2 D) and the game today against the reserve Galaxy side.

Taking a look at the games on Friday and Sunday, where the first team was featured, the Caps were able to take control the majority and based on the tweets from the Whitecaps, Marc Weber and Bruce Constantineau all the goals came against the run of play.  To not anyone’s surprise the final third is where the Whitecaps struggled as they were able to create chances but were unable to finish.  The scoring chance ended either with a spectacular save by the keeper or missing just wide.  On the other hand their opponents took advantage of the few mistakes the defender made and capitalized on their chances.

The obvious item that most fans will come away from this trip is that the Whitecaps need to find goal scorers if they want any success.  While this may be true, another thing the team will have to work on is playing a full 90 minutes of defense.  As was reported even a small letdown will allow the opposition a chance to score and without a prolific striker falling behind early is not an option.  

Brazilian trialist Camilo seemed to interest coaches with his ability and he got playing time with the first team on Sunday and also seemed to be around the ball.  Russell Teibert returned from Canadian national team camp and continues to impress with his play on the wide side.  Previously injured Jay DeMerit and John Thorrington saw their first extended action as they continue to get match fit.  Expansion draft pickup Shea Salinas continued his stellar play and is the best bet to have a breakout season this year.

 The Whitecaps will remain in Arizona for the rest of the week, where they will play training matches against local clubs, before returning to the Northwest to play in the mini Cascadia tournament against the Sounders and Timbers.