EXPANSION DRAFT PREVIEW

The Vancouver Whitecaps have released one player and signed a homegrown so far this offseason but Martin Rennie’s first step to strengthening the 2012 roster will come with the expansion draft.  Rennie knew the eleven players he would protect by the end of the post season training session but transactions before the draft could change that.  A number of teams would be unable to protect all the players they want and may not want to lose them for nothing.  The Caps could also make deals with the Impact before or after the draft for players they feel will upgrade their level of talent.

EXEMPT

Bryce Alderson

Philippe Davies

Nizar Khalfan

Michael Nanchoff

Omar Salgado

Brian Sylvestre

Russell Teibert

Of these players who are exempted due to being Generation Adidas or Homegrown players only Salgado, Teibert and Alderson should be considered untouchable as the others have questions.  One of those questions is if Michael Nanchoff fits in Rennie’s 4-3-3 formation at wing or in the central midfield.  Nizar Khalfan is taking up an international slot and will Rennie want to use that spot on a new acquisition somewhere else on the pitch.  A couple of residency players that may interest the Impact are Quebecer Phillipe Davies and Kyle Porter, who trailed with Montreal but MLS rights are owned by Vancouver.  Both players would help the Impact with Canadian quota numbers as they wait for their academy to bring in their homegrown talent.

Colorado Rapids vs WhitecapsFC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps will attempt to end their season the same way they began it with a win at home in front of their supporters.  They take on the 2010 defending champion in the Colorado Rapids who earlier in the season defeated the Caps at home by a score of 2-1. 

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.

D.C. United vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps attempt to win two in a row and avenge their worst loss of the season as they take on D.C. United in BC Place.  The Caps in the first meeting was close at halftime but three second half goals by DCU and the end result was a 4-0 defeat.  While the Caps look to have a winning streak for the first time this season, the visitors from the east are still in playoff contention and are desperate for points.

Real Salt Lake vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After a disappointing result and performance in their debut on the BC Place pitch, the Vancouver Whitecaps hope for better results against a depleted Real Salt Lake club.  This match is a makeup date for the original one that was rained out when a temporary grass field was deemed unplayable by MLS.  The two teams faced each in June where RSL dominated the Caps at Rio Tinto and came away with a 2-0 victory.

Portand Timbers vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps debut at the newly renovated B.C. Place against their expansion cousins and Cascadia rival Portland Timbers.  Their last meeting ended up with the Timbers defeating the Caps by a score of 2-1 as the home side scored their goals early with the Caps adding a late one by Camilo.  While the Timbers are fighting for the playoffs in their first season, the Caps continue to play the spoiler role and attempt to earn some respect in the MLS.

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.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 24

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  14W-3L-9D

Last Week: No Match

Next Week:  Sep 5 at Sporting Kansas City 

Galaxy feeling pressure from Sounders and will play this week without Keane

2. Seattle Sounders (2)

Record:  13W-5L-9D

Last Week:  6-2 Win vs Columbus Crew

Next Week:  No Match

Another big win for Seattle against top team in East 

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus Houston Dynamo

The Vancouver Whitecaps returned home to Empire Field and recorded their second straight home win with 1-0 result over the Houston Dynamo.  Shea Salinas provided the heroics, with a little help from Long Tan, as the American midfielder got the gorilla off his back scoring for the first time this year.  Other standout performances in the game against Houston included Koffie in the midfield, Rochat and Demerit on the backline, Hassli up front and Cannon in goal.

FORWARDS

Eric Hassli- Considering how much the striker was held by the Dynamo central backs, it was amazing Hassli did not file charges.  Another continuing issue is the lack of service the Frenchman receives from the current group of midfielders which forces him to create his chances on his own.  GRADE: B+

Subs Lead Caps To Victory

A goal late in the second half helped lift the Vancouver Whitecaps to their fourth victory and avoid another home draw as the home side were on the positive side of a 1-0 decision against the Houston Dynamo.  The win was the club’s second straight at Empire Field and their first cleansheet in a win or draw since June against Philadelphia.  The winning score, assisted by substitute Long Tan, was the first goal of the season and as a Whitecap for Shea Salinas.

It was almost another quick start for the Caps at Empire as Dynamo goalkeeper Tally Hall bobbled a free kick from Chuimiento but there was no attacking player able to capitalize on the subsequent scramble.  The Dynamo controlled play after that initial chance as Adam Moffat struck the bar while Cannon made a couple of saves off shots from Brad Davis.  Hall came up big once again just before the half getting his hand on a glancing header by Mustapha Jarju off a set piece.  Then in injury time Salinas, coming on as a sub for an injured Thorrington, sailed his shot over the bar after being set up by Jarju in the box. 

Houston Dynamo vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps return to Empire Field, after two road games, to face the Houston Dynamo as they for their fourth on home turf.  The two teams faced each other on April 10^th where a patchwork Caps team lost in the heat to the Dynamo by the score of 3-1.  On that day the Whitecaps were without a number of players due to suspension (Hassli and Koffie) and injury (Dunfield, Salinas and DeMerit at halftime).

MLS Power Rankings: Week 23

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  14W-3L-9D

Last Week: 2-0 Win vs San Jose Earthquakes

Next Week:  Aug 28 at New York Red Bulls

Robbie Keane makes an immediate impact for the Galaxy

2. Seattle Sounders (3)

Record:  12W-5L-9D

Last Week:  1-0 Win at FC Dallas

Next Week:  Aug 27 vs Columbus Crew

Sounders gain possession of second in West with win over FCD

Caps Reserves Collapse In Injury Time

A late game collapse in injury time by the Vancouver Whitecaps allowed the Timbers to come back and win their Reserve League match by the score of 3-2.  The Caps held the lead and looked good for the victory when in the first and fourth minutes of injury time goals by Brian Umony and Peter Lowrey turned the tables on the visitors from the north.  The Whitecaps goals were by Mustapha Jarju and Omar Salgado while Lowrey opened the scoring on a penalty kick.

The majority of the play in the first half went the Timbers way and they were rewarded with a penalty kick after a hand ball by Greg Janicki.  Soon after the penalty kick conversion by Peter Lowrey, the Whitecaps tied it before the half with a perfectly placed free kick by Mustapha Jarju.  The designated player was able to just clear the line and out of the reach of the Timbers goalkeeper to the far post.

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus Portland Timbers

The Vancouver Whitecaps were looking for their first win on the road as they travelled to face the Timbers in Portland but in the end the club had too many passengers on this trip. The 2-1 score flattered the Whitecaps as their expansion cousins dominated, rarely allowing the Caps any chances on goal and constantly breaking down a leaky backline.


FORWARDS

Camilo- It was an off game for the normally hardworking Brazilian striker and despite that he was still able to create a goal in the box by turning the Portland defender before scoring his eighth of the season. With him being more dangerous around the box, it may be time for Soehn to put Camilo back up top at striker where he can display his natural scoring ability. GRADE: B

Caps Outclassed And Outworked By The Timbers

In a season which has had its share of disappointments as the Whitecaps failed to show up and were beaten soundly by the Portland Timbers 2-1, a scoreline which flattered the visitors.  Like most of the games this season the Whitecaps were disorganized at the back and failed to show creativity moving forward.  The Timbers were helped by two first half goals by Colombians Jorge Perlaza and Diego Chara while the Caps were able to salvage a late score by Camilo.

The game couldn’t have started out worse for the Whitecaps as they were caught flat and Portland’s young designated player Chara volleyed a shot past Cannon within the first five minutes.  The Timbers continued to press and collect quality chances while the Whitecaps whipped in crosses that were easily cleared out of the box.  Portland doubled their lead off a corner as Perlaza caught a couple of Vancouver defenders looking at the ball in the box and deposited in the back of the net.  Another great run by the two Colombians almost gave the Timbers a three goal lead into the half but the two goal lead would stand into halftime.

Portand Timbers vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

Vancouver and their expansion cousins, Portland, renew their long rivalry for the first time in MLS as the Caps visit the Timbers at Jeld Wen Field on Saturday.  While both teams sit on the bottom half of the Western Conference table, it is clear the Timbers are enjoying more success in the first year as they sit two points higher with six additional points.  It is the Whitecaps second game of the Cascadia Cup while it will be Portland’s third game and both clubs have a single point so far.

Harris Goes Under The Knife Again

It was announced by the Whitecaps that striker Atiba Harris recently underwent a follow up surgery to his right knee.  The original surgery was performed, to the meniscus of his right knee, back in April and has sidelined the MLS veteran for most of the year.  This type of surgery allows the recipient to start putting weight on it within a week or two but a return to soccer may not be possible this year.  The Caps are hopeful that Harris may return to some action in the month of October when the team will play five league and two reserve matches.  However, there will be no need to rush the striker back if he is deemed not ready by the medical staff.  The expansion draft pick up has played in five matches this season and contributed with two goals and three assists.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 22

 1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  13W-3L-9D

Last Week: No Match

Next Week:  Aug 20 vs San Jose Earthquakes

Galaxy have added Keane in time to face California rival

2. FC Dallas (4)

Record:  12W-6L-7D

Last Week:  2-2 Draw at Philadelphia Union

Next Week:  Aug 20 vs Seattle Sounders

Dallas will attempt to hold on to 2nd in Western Conference

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus D.C. United

The Whitecaps were in a prime position to pick up two straight wins as well as their first on the road against DC United.  Their opponents had one of the worst records at home and the Whitecaps had their captain returning to the starting eleven.  Unfortunately two goals, one at end of the first and the other at the start of the second, essentially took them out of the game and the winning streak would end at one.

FORWARDS

Camilo-  The Brazilian was the only consistently dangerous player on the pitch and almost gave the Whitecaps the lead with his free kick in the first half.  Camilo creates more chances on his own and his runs make him the most fouled Vancouver player in the final third.  GRADE:  B+

Whitecaps Take A Beating From D.C. United

After what seemed like a season turning win last week, the Whitecaps returned to their regular form losing to D.C. United 4-0.  The match turned in the last minute of the opening half and the first five minutes of the second half when two goals were scored and ended the Caps chances at picking up a second straight win.  The Whitecaps gave up two goals to Pontius and singles to Najar and King with the all four all goals being attributed to backline and goalie error.

The control of the match went back and forth with DC United pushing play for the first fifteen minutes, the Caps taking over for the next fifteen and the balance going back to the home side for the next ten.  With about five minutes left in the first half, the Whitecaps came close to scoring on a Camilo free kick as well as the scramble afterwards but they were denied by the third string goalkeeper.  Then in injury time D.C. United opened the scoring as Chris Pontius opened the scoring as he converted a cross from the player of the week Dwayne De Rosario.

D.C. United vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps will attempt to accomplish two firsts for their franchise in MLS by winning two games in a row and earning three points on the road.  The opponent they try to accomplish this goal is one of the MLS originals as the Caps travel east to face D.C. United.  The match may see the return of their Captain Jay DeMerit as well as designated player Mustapha Jarju who was away on international duty.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 21

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  13W-3L-9D

Last Week: 3-0 Loss at Portland Timbers, 3-1 Win vs FC Dallas

Next Week:  No Match

Galaxy looked past Timbers but rebounded to  beat FCD

2. Seattle Sounders (5)

Record:  11W-5L-8D

Last Week:  2-1 Loss at Sporting Kansas City

Next Week:  Aug 13 vs Chivas USA

Two late goals allow Sounders to pick up three points

Caps Defeat Sounders In Reserve League

The Vancouver Whitecaps picked up their first Reserve League victory as they defeated the division leading Seattle Sounders 2-1 at Swangard Stadium.  The goals for the Caps were scored by 1^st round pick Michael Nanchoff and Long Tan while the Sounders responded with a goal by Nate Jacqua.  By winning the game the Whitecaps handed the Sounders their first defeat in the league play as they had won all of the seven previous games this season.  Looking to improve their fitness, the starting eleven included both Jay DeMerit and Davide Chiumiento as both of senior team regulars played the first half.

Whitecaps Appoint Rennie As Head Coach For 2012

Two months after deciding to fire their first coach, the Vancouver Whitecaps have found their new head man in 36 year old Martin Rennie.  Rennie, currently with the Carolina Railhawks of the NASL, will complete his current duties and then will assume the new position at the end of this season with a reported three year deal.  Until then Tom Soehn will continue coaching and will move back to his Director of Soccer Operations position once Rennie completes his move.

A meteoric rise would be an understatement when it comes to describing the coaching career of Rennie as the Scotsman has been coaching for six years, including the current one, moving from PDL to MLS over that time.  After a knee injury ended his playing time at the age of 25, Rennie went forward and worked on getting his UEFA licenses for coaching.  His first job was taking over a struggling PDL side, the Cascade Surge and in one year led them to a PDL finals appearance.

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus Chicago Fire

There was a sense of dread going into the Chicago Fire match after the result from the previous weekend against the Galaxy.  There was some relief when Hassli scored less than a minute into the game but concern returned when the Fire even the score.  Fortunately for the supporters the Whitecaps added three more goals and were able to seal the match with a 4-2 victory.

FORWARDS

Camilo- While many had Hassli named as man of the match, Camilo actually was equal if not better than the Frenchman when it came it to the impact on the game.  In addition to his beautiful goal, the Brazilian drew a penalty as well as numerous other fouls, took the a great free kick that led to the fourth goal, and won the ball in the air which was instrumental in Koffie’s goal.  GRADE:  A-

Whitecaps Provide Fireworks Against Chicago

The finale for the Symphony of Fire was on Saturday night but the Whitecaps with a little help from Eric Hassli continued the fireworks at Empire Field with a 4-2 victory over the Chicago Fire.  The scoreline actually flattered the visitors from the East as the Caps dominated play and the Fire were forced to consistently foul the Vancouver attackers.  In addition to Hassli’s brace the other goals were scored by Camilo and Koffie while Chicago responded with goals by Oduro and Barouch.

It did not take long for Vancouver to open scoring as an error by a Fire defender gave Hassli the ball on a break and the French striker made no mistake with a world class finish as he fired the goal past Sean Johnson in the first minute.  The Caps continued their pressure for the first twenty minutes but could not find the second early goal.  It was costly as the Fire equalized after a speedy run by Dominic Oduro put him alone on Nolly as he fired over the outstretched arms of the goalkeeper.

Chicago Fire vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

The Vancouver Whitecaps will look to rebound from their worst defeat of the season as they face the Chicago Fire for the second time this season.  Their first meeting in Chicago ended in a goalless draw in which both teams failed to generate few scoring chances.  Both clubs sit at the bottom of their respective conferences and also hold the bottom two spots in MLS.

Teibert Makes Move To New Position

Injuries on the backline combined with a logjam of available players on the wings have Canadian teenager Russell Teibert move from the midfield to the left back position.  The season started with Teibert in the starting eleven playing opposite wing from Davide Chiumiento.  It was a game that the homegrown product impressed with both his skill and poise on the pitch. 

At the time the Caps were forced to start the youngster as other potential starters like Salinas and Nanchoff had been injured for most of the preseason.  After the first two games in which he started Teibert saw very little time due to international duty with the U20 Canada team as well as injury issues.  Once he regained his health time on the pitch was limited with Salinas back from the injury list and Camilo becoming a regular starter on the wing once Soehn took over as coach.  With Nanchoff also returning from injury and the ability of Chiuminento to play the wing, Teibert was going find it difficult to find time on the pitch.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 20

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  12W-2L-9D

Last Week: 4-0 Win at Vancouver Whitecaps

Next Week:  Aug 3 vs Portland Timbers, Aug 6 vs FC Dallas

Galaxy look to extend unbeaten streak against other expansion team

2. FC Dallas (4)

Record:  12W-5L-6D

Last Week:  1-0 Win vs Chivas USA

Next Week:  Aug 6 at LA Galaxy

Big test against the other 12 win team in MLS

Caps Draw Galaxy In Reserve League

After losing to the senior squad 4-0 the night before, the Whitecaps reserve squad drew 2-2 with the Galaxy reserves.  The visitors jumped out to a two goal lead with goals in the 31^st and 51^st minute as it looked like it would be a repeat of the previous night.  Then residency regulars helped bring the Caps back with two goals eleven minutes apart, both coming from the boot of Long Tan. 

There were a couple of intriguing players in the starting eleven as often injured John Thorrington got a start and played only twenty minutes before being taken off for Alex Morfaw.  Homegrown product Russell Teibert played out of position as the left winger moved to the backline at the left back position.  In addition to those two players, Bilal Duckett played as a center back for the majority of the game before coming off in the 89^th minute.

Within two minutes of coming onto the pitch, Ben Fisk was able to find Tan at the far post to bring the Caps within one goal.  The tying goal came eleven minutes later as Morfaw was able to spring Tan with a through ball and the Chinese International made no mistake.  The Whitecaps now have two points in five reserve matches as they have a record of three losses and two draws.  The reserve squad will now face Cascadia rival the Seattle Sounders on August 9^th in the MLS reserve league.

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus LA Galaxy

For sixty minutes the Whitecaps went toe to toe with the top team in MLS and came within a few inches from taking the lead before it fell apart for them.  A slip by Boxall and a lazy handball in the box by new acquisition Jordan Harvey put the Caps down by two.  Tom Soehn decided to go with three at the back in order to get close the gap in the game but we`re unable to handle the Galaxy counter attack and the rout was on.

FORWARDS

Eric Hassli- Vancouver’s designated player did everything he could to set up a goal including mixing it up in the box with the Galaxy defenders.  Hassli’s cross, early in the match, almost setup an early goal while he continued good play holding up the ball and finding teammates.  GRADE:  B+

Camilo- This was a game where Camilo’s lack of defensive awareness hurt the Whitecaps in their own half of the pitch as he was unable to offer support to the defenders.  He was dangerous in the final third and almost converted a free kick but was robbed by the Galaxy goalkeeper.  GRADE:  B

Galaxy Make Caps Pay For Missed Chances

While the Vancouver Whitecaps weren’t as bad as the score line indicated, they still lacked quality as the home side were thrashed by the league leading LA Galaxy 4-0 in front of the biggest gathering this season at Empire Field.  Similar to the majority of defeats and some draws, it was a storyline of the Whitecaps unable to finish early chances and succumbing to silly mistakes which allowed the team to lose points.  It was the first time the Caps allowed four goals this season but while it was the team’s worst defeat of the year, by goal margin, it was not their worst performance.

This match saw a new formation on display by the Caps as they rolled out a 4-4-2(diamond) setup with Chiumiento playing as the attacking midfielder and Koffie playing as the holding midfielder.  It was working for thirty plus minutes as the Whitecaps brought wave after wave of attack with the chances falling to new acquisition Mustapha Jarju.  Unfortunately for the home team those opportunities consistently missed the mark either wide of the post or sailing over the net.  It was then the Whitecaps turn to survive as the Galaxy had three glorious chances to take the lead in a span of three minutes but Joe Cannon was able to stop of two of them and the third just missed the net.

LA Galaxy vs Whitecaps FC Match Preview

After a ten day break the Vancouver Whitecaps return to action to face the MLS leading Los Angeles Galaxy at Empire Field.  The Galaxy come north of the border, without Beckham, on a thirteen game unbeaten streak while the Whitecaps are still looking their third victory.  While it is the first matchup in league action, the two clubs have played friendlies in the past.

Caps Release Two Defenders

A couple of weeks into the transfer season and the Vancouver Whitecaps made a couple moves to create some room on their roster for potential additions.  The club announced that defenders Mouloud Akloul and Blake Wagner were placed on waivers, and if not picked up by another MLS team, they will be released from their contracts.  The moves open up two spots on the roster including an international spot but doesn’t free up any money on their salary cap as both were waived after July 1^st.

Coming through the French youth system, Akloul went abroad spending his time in Algeria and UAE before signing with Whitecaps in April of 2010.  His season did not last long as 21 minutes into his debut he fractured his ankle while scoring a goal in front of the home crowd.  While going through rehab and multiple surgeries, Akloul quickly became a fan favourite despite playing a limited time on the pitch.  After finally getting medical clearance he was one of the last additions to the roster before the season started.

Hassli Named To MLS All-Star Roster

The Vancouver Whitecaps learned that their designated player Eric Hassli was named to the MLS All-Star roster as an inactive player.  Hassli was voted onto the roster by his fellow players and is joined by five other players.  The French striker is currently tied for fourth in MLS scoring with eight goals and has been a YouTube sensation after scoring an unbelievable goal against Sounders.  While it is highly unlikely that Hassli will see any playing time against Manchester United, he does become the first Whitecap to be named to an MLS all-star team.

It has been an up and down season for the striker who leads the club in goals with nine goals in all competitions.  He also has accumulated a high number of cautions, including the MLS leader in game suspensions.  Recently, Hassli has become accustomed to the MLS rules and been avoiding run ins with the referees.

MLS Power Rankings: Week 19

1. Los Angeles Galaxy (1)

Record:  11W-2L-9D

Last Week: 1-0 Win vs Columbus Crew

Next Week:  July 30 at Vancouver Whitecaps

Galaxy will face Caps without Beckham and possibly Donovan

2. Real Salt Lake (3)

Record: 9W-3L-6D

Last Week:  4-0 Win vs San Jose Earthquakes

Next Week:  July 30 vs Columbus Crew

RSL blasts Quakes and now host Crew

Report Card: Whitecaps FC Versus San Jose Earthquakes

The Vancouver Whitecaps travelled to California hoping to snap their losing streak and to pick up their first road victory.  While a draw was not the result the club was hoping for, it is a good starting point that could lead the Caps into turning around a poor season.  It was the best game collectively for the midfielders while the makeshift backline had one of their worst performances as a group.

FORWARDS

Eric Hassli- With so many eyes on the debut of the Caps newest DP, it was Hassli who stole the show with a brace that brought the Caps to level terms twice.  There is no doubt that the Frenchman is becoming a proven MLS goalscorer as he has a nose for the net and can finish his chances.  GRADE: A-

Davide Chiumiento- After missing the last few games with a hamstring injury, Chiumiento came on for Jarju as a sub in the second half.  There was no signs of rust as the Caps top playmaker looked dangerous playing in a withdrawn role including when he found Salinas down the wing which would lead to the second goal.  GRADE: B

Whitecaps Battle Back Twice To Draw San Jose

While Vancouver’s newest designated player, Mustapha Jarju, made his debut for the Caps it was their original one who made the imprint on the match as Eric Hassli’s brace brought the Caps back twice for a 2-2 draw with San Jose.  The Whitecaps were able to pick up the point despite a shaky performance from a make shift backline missing three starters.  The Earthquakes took the lead at the start of both halves with goals by 2010 MLS golden boot winner Chris Wondolowski but the game was also tied twice with the two goals by Hassli.

The team looked very flat to start the game and it showed quickly on the scoreboard as Chris Wondolowski was able to stay onside and beat Cannon one on one.  As the game progressed the Caps started connecting better with Jarju getting his first opportunity to score in MLS but he sailed the ball just over the bar.  The Whitecaps started getting stronger as the half progressed and were rewarded for it as Shea Salinas sent in Hassli alone and after a few touches the French striker blasted the ball past Busch into the back of the net before halftime.