Toronto FC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC Match Preview

 

KEY PLAYERS

ATTACKING 

Initially it seems like the attack for the Whitecaps will flow through Davide Chiumiento as his distribution from a withdrawn striker position to Hassli and the other midfielders will be the key for the Caps to score.

The leading scorer from last year Dwayne DeRosario will be playing from an attacking midfield position  in a 4-3-3 formation where not only will he have to create opportunities for teammates but create chances for himself because of the lack of finishing up front.

DEFENSE

With the slight injury to DeMerit, Alain Rochat will be asked to provide cover in the box as he is capable of playing CB in addition to his normal LB position.  He will also provide some attack opportunities with Teibert along the left side.

  The job of controlling Designated Player Eric Hassli will fall upon Canadian Adrian Cann as he will have to control a player with a blend of skill and strength.  He left during camp with a contract dispute but has returned now to his starting spot.

WHO’S ON FORM

The two time Canadian U18 player of the year Russell Teibert has been the one of the most dynamic and consistent player in camp and may get the start ahead of Blake Wagner.  If he doesn’t start expect to see Teibert come on as a sub.

MLS veteran Jacob Peterson has performed well in the new system attacking the position from the wing position which is vital for Winter’s new formation.  The former right midfielder will now play a forward position.

WHO’S OFF FORM

Playing up front regularly for the first time Atiba Harris has struggled to capitalize on his scoring chances and now if he doesn’t start at RM, Harris may start on the bench.  However, with midfield injuries he may see the starting eleven in the opener.

Acquired for a first round pick Nathan Sturgis has struggled in his new surroundings but will most likely see him in the starting eleven with DeGuzman’s injury and his own experience in the MLS. 

2010 RECORD

10W-5L-15D(USSF Division 2)

Lost in Semi Finals(USSF Division 2)

 

9W-13L-8D

Missed Playoffs

PROJECTED LINEUPS

 Joe Cannon looked healthy in the Cascadia Summit and should get the start in goal ahead of Jay Nolly.  Greg Janicki suffered a knock in training and may be replaced by rookie Boxall.  My guess is that Harris starts ahead of Khalfan and Teibert ahead of Wagner in the midfield.  Chiumiento plays the withdrawn striker role and Hassli should start at up top.

 Dan Gargan should start at RB and Yourassowsky at LB ahead of rookie Omphroy and veteran Harden.  Sturgis and Bouchiba start in the central midfield with Zavarise on the bench.  Starters Martina as the LW and Peterson as the RW will start but may be replaced by Soolsma as a sub.  Recent addition Alan Gordon will most likely replace Santos off the bench.

  

INJURIES 

 

MF Shea Salinas, MF Michael Nanchoff, MF John Thorrington

 

MF Julian DeGuzman, MF Nicholas Lindsay

GAME PREDICTION

  2
 


  1

I see the Whitecaps scoring two goals in the first half controlling the early play with the support of the crowd.  After the initial attack Toronto FC should settle down and get a goal early in the second half.  The Whitecaps will be able to hold off the Toronto FC pressure and hold onto secure their first victory in the MLS and the Canadian Derby.