Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus Columbus Crew

The Whitecaps were missing their top two strikers and their captain on the backline but had many of their players return to the midfield and the backline.  It wasn’t enough as the Caps lost their third straight match away from Empire Field in MLS league play.  They won’t have to wait long for another opportunity as they will travel back to the Midwest as they face the Fire in Chicago.

FORWARDS

Omar Salgado- The teenager started in his first match but struggled in the first half. After a couple of key subs Salgado seemed to find his game and eventually scored his first goal of a great header.  He is missing a physical prescence which will develop with time.  GRADE:  B-

Nizar Khalfan- The Tanzanian came on as a sub in the second half and made an immediate impact. Khalfan almost tied the game when his in close shot in the box was cleared off the line by a Columbus defender.  GRADE:  C+

Camilo- In his first game without Hassli or Harris he seemed to struggle to find open space and service. Camilo was not developing good chemistry with Omar Salgado in the 1st half which may be caused by tactical changes. He was subbed off with more than 30 minutes left in the match.  GRADE:  C

MIDFIELDERS

Terry Dunfield- He continued strong play as well as chemistry with youngster Gershon Koffie. Dunfield made important plays defensively and his perfectly placed cross set up Salgado's goal.  He seemed very disappointed as he was subbed off in the second half.  GRADE:  B

Gerson Koffie- Returning from international duty the Ghanian midfielder picked up where he left off in his partnership with Dunfield. His play as a holding midfielder allowed Dunfield and Brovsky to venture into an attacking role.  GRADE:  B-

Davide Chiumiento- The league leader in assists had good touch throughout the game and as one reporter he seemed to be in a better mood. Chiumineto was instrumental in play leading up the only goal. The only question is whether the wing position is the right one for him.  GRADE:  B-

Shea Salinas- His first appearance as a sub in league play after being injured since preseason was a positive one for Salinas. He was the instant spark that was needed at that point in the match. It’s just a matter of time before Salinas gets into starting eleven.  GRADE:  C+

Jeb Brovsky- The second round Came on as a second half sub for Dunfield. Show great poise especially in tight places. Came close to tying the score as he placed his shot just wide of the post.  GRADE:  C+

Wes Knight- He had another tough game as he struggled to find his touch in the crosses on the pitch. The effort is present but is Knight strong enough in his skillset to play midfield or should he return to his RB position.  GRADE:  C-

DEFENDERS

Alain Rochat- It was his first game back at fullback since the comeback versus Sporting Kansas City and the Swiss international didn’t disappoint. Rochat was very dangerous going forward and was a major contributor in the build-up of the Caps only goal.  GRADE:  B+

Greg Janicki- Another returnee from injury, Janicki played alongside Akloul for the first time as well with the Whitecaps.  He showed no ill effects from his injury as he defended well against the Crew attack especially on set pieces in the air.  GRADE:  C+

Jonathan Leathers- He was very unlucky on the play that led to the penalty as the ball bounced off his foot right to Renteria.  Otherwise he held the left midfielder from causing any serious threat on goal despite looking worn down.  GRADE:  C+

Mouloud Akloul- It was his first start at CB in over a year due to injury and despite a few hiccups played a solid game. Akloul was marking Renteria on his second goal as he allowed the Columbian to get away from him.  GRADE:  C+

GOALKEEPER

Jay Nolly- He has started every except one is becoming more and more steady as the last line of defense for the Caps especially coming off the line to snatch the crossed in balls.  A couple things that costs him are timing his runs at balls on the ground and playing bigger when facing an attacker one on one.  GRADE:  C+

OVERALL

The Whitecaps played the first half to conserve their energy because of their major fixture congestion that their currently in right now.  The plan almost worked if it wasn’t for a couple of breakdowns when Renteria was allowed to break free from defenders.  They pressed hard in the last 20 minutes for the equalizer and with a little luck could have gained their first result on the road this season.  GRADE:  C+