Seattle Sounders vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After touring the two biggest coasts of America, New York and LA, the Whitecaps return to Empire to face their rivals in the Seattle Sounders. It's their second meeting in MLS with the first ending in a 2-2 draw with the tying goal from Eric Hassli making him a worldwide sensation on the internet. It is also will be the last match to be played at Empire Field as the team will be moving to the newly renovated BC Place.

Caps Caught Star Gazing In Loss To Galaxy

The Vancouver Whitecaps were able to hang around with the LA Galaxy for about forty minutes but eventually the best team in MLS showed their superiority as they defeated the Caps 3-0.  For the majority of the first the Whitecaps carried the play and created more chances but could not capitalize on their opportunities.  The Galaxy was led by a brace from midfielder Mike Magee and a second, since joining MLS, for newly acquired DP Robbie Keane.

Once again the Whitecaps came out aggressive against the Galaxy as they showed creativity in their attack.  Chiumiento carried over his stellar play from the week before early on as he made a great run which allowed him an early chance on goal.  Because of a clashing of heads, Rochat was forced off the pitch to get repaired for an extended period allowing the Galaxy to turn the flow of the game towards the Whitecap goal.

LA Galaxy vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After drawing the Red Bulls in New York, the Vancouver Whitecaps travel to the opposite coast to face the MLS leading LA Galaxy.  Their last meeting, at Empire Field, the Caps played the Galaxy close for about sixty minutes before the flood gates opened and Vancouver suffered their worst ever home defeat.  While this is a matchup between the best and worst team in the MLS table, the Caps are looking to pull off a huge upset in Southern California.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 26

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  15W-3L-10D

Last Week: 1-0 Win vs Colorado Rapids

Next Week:  Sep 17 vs Vancouver Whitecaps

Galaxy keep their firm hold on the Supporters Shield

2. Real Salt Lake (4)

Record: 13W-7L-6D

Last Week:  2-1 at Seattle Sounders

Next Week:  Sep 17 vs Sporting Kansas City

RSL continue their turnaround with a big win in Seattle

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus New York Red Bulls

The Whitecaps looked the part to win their first road game in the first half as they were moving the ball well, scored the opening goal and had an extra man going into the second half.  Unfortunately for the club the switch turned off ten minutes into the second half and the Red Bulls were able to find an equalizer and come away with a draw. 

FORWARDS

Davide Chiumiento- After a number of substandard performances and stating that he was not at full fitness, Chiumiento displayed a high skill level and work ethic in New York.  His tally was goal of the week material and could have had a second but it was his work ethic that made him the best Cap on the pitch.  GRADE:  A

Caps Unable to Handle Ten Man Red Bulls

Despite being up a man for more than 45 minutes, the Vancouver Whitecaps had to settle for a 1-1 draw with the New York Red Bulls.  By the end of the match the Caps could consider themselves lucky to hold onto the single point as they thoroughly outplayed by the home side in the second half.  Scoring his second of the season was Davide Chiumiento while substitute Juan Agudelo responded for New York.

The Caps came out of the gate attacking aggressively and should’ve been up a goal in the first ten minutes if it were not for a poor decision by the referee.  After a sublime give and go between Hassli and Camilo, the Brazilian beat his mark and slipped the ball past the goalkeeper but he was called for a foul when it was clear that the Red Bull player had slipped.  The Red Bulls responded with their chance a minute later when Richards was found open inside the box but after a scramble it was a weak backheel attempt by Henry that all they could come up with.

New York vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After picking up their fourth win of the season, the Vancouver Whitecaps travel east to face one of the crown jewels of MLS, the New York Red Bulls.  Their last matchup ended in a 2-2 draw at Empire and was the last game coached by Teitur Thordarson before he was sacked.  It will also be the first match where the Caps will have to face Thierry Henry as the French striker was unable to make the trip to Vancouver due to injury.

Trialists Brought In For Caps Reserve Match

The Whitecaps face the San Jose Earthquakes in reserve league action at Swangard Stadium and there will be a number of new faces on the game day roster.  After the release of Wesley Knight, the team has three roster spots open including two for international players.  With the Sounders clinching the reserve title, the Caps will most likely use the remaining four games to test new players and their potential worth to the club’s future.  Here is a little information on each of them.

Massiah Wassey- The German born Canadian international midfielder arrived on trial earlier last month but was unable to play in the match against the Timbers due to an illness.  In recent years Wassey has played for the reserve teams of FC Schalke 04 and Fortuna Dusseldorf as the main playmaker in the central midfield.  He is not being brought in for his defensive play as he is noted for being an offensive threat from the middle of the pitch.  With his Canadian passport, Wassey would count as a domestic player and at 23 years old would be a solid developmental player.