FC Dallas vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After winning two matches in a row for the first time this season, the Whitecaps look for another first as they travel to Dallas for a chance for their first road win.  This will be their last opportunity this season as they try to avoid a winless season away from their home pitch.  The two clubs met earlier in the season with FC Dallas coming back in the second half to secure a 2-1 victory in a match where they lost their 2010 MVP Davide Ferriera to a season ending injury.

KEY PLAYERS

ATTACKING

After going through a long stretch where he saw no action with the senior squad Nizar Khalfan has put together a pair of strong performances.  The Tanzania international is using his pace on the wing more effectively and consistently than he did early in the season.

The ex-TFC striker Maicon Santos has already played the Whitecaps four times this season scoring a couple of times.  The Brazilian has scored twice for Dallas in eight starts as he looks to form a partnership with the other forwards going into the playoffs.

DEFENSE

With an injury to Mitchell, there are questions as to where Alain Rochat will start whether it is at left back or next to Demerit.  Playing on the left side brings another level to the team’s attack as they are able to take advantage of his skill with crossing the ball.

 

During the transfer window FC Dallas almost lost George John to EPL side Blackburn and the loss could have hurt their chances in the playoffs.  The defender brings poise and strength to the backline and has formed a formidable partnership with Ihemelu on the backline.

WHO’S ON FORM

Except for the rare game, Gershon Koffie has been one of the team’s better performers in the expansion season.  The last two games have shown how good Koffie has become in clogging the midfield and making turnovers by the other team into opportunities for the Caps.

Not only the team’s MVP but a candidate for MLS MVP, Brek Shea has taken his game into another level this season especially in a season where they lost last year’s MVP.  His combination of skill, pace, size and striking ability has made the young American into a sought after player by European teams.

2011 RECORD

6W -16L-10D

9^th in Western Conference

Last Game: 2-1 Win vs DC United

14W-11L-7D

4^th in Western Conference

Last Game:  2-1 Win at Chicago Fire

PROJECTED LINEUPS

INJURIES

OUT:  FW Atiba Harris (knee), GK Brian Sylvestre (knee), MF Russell Teibert (toe), DF Jonathan Leathers (hamstring)

PROBABLE:  MF John Thorrington (groin)

OUT:  DF Edson Edward (knee), MF David Ferreira (ankle), MF Andrew Wiedeman (groin), GK Josh Lambo (jaw)

GAME PREDICTION

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The Whitecaps are riding a two game win streak and hope to carry the momentum into Texas as they face last year’s runner up in FC Dallas.  It’s their last chance to win on the road as the team tries to avoid a select list of teams unable to win away from home.  The Caps will need to press early for an early goal as Dallas maybe looking past Vancouver to their CCL match with TFC.  It may be another opportunity for the Caps could take advantage as the Caps look to end their first MLS road season on a positive note.