Vancouver Whitecaps FC

Kenny Miller scores a pair in Whitecaps FC win

In an exciting, physical match in front of 20,116 fans, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (5W-5L-4D) defeated New England Revolution 4-3 (5W-5L-5D) at BC Place.

Canadian international Russell Teibert registered an assist in his third straight game and Kenny Miller had his first two-goal performance as a member of the "˜Caps in Vancouver's highest scoring MLS match to date.

Head coach Martin Rennie made two changes from last week's starting lineup against Seattle Sounders FC, with Carlyle Mitchell drawing in for the injured Andy O'Brien at centre back and Daigo Kobayashi coming in for Jun Marques Davidson in midfield.

On eight minutes, the first opportunity for the "˜Caps presented itself when Young-Pyo Lee fired a shot from the right side of the 18-yard box, but his shot narrowly missed the left side of the net.

Two minutes later, on 10 minutes, the visitors put a hush to the BC Place crowd. Left back Chris Tierney lofted a long ball upfield to Juan Agudelo, who then one-timed a shot just past Brad Knighton and into the net to give the Revs the early one-goal lead.

In the 19th minute, New England nearly netted another when Saer Sene found Kelyn Rowe in the centre of the box, but the midfielder fired the ball high. However, just a minute later, on 20 minutes, the Revs' capitalized as Sene connected with Diego ***undez, who in turn found Rowe for a low finish and a 2-0 lead.

On 23 minutes, the tides turned as Andrew Farrell took down Kenny Miller in the box just after the Scottish striker picked up a pass from Russell Teibert. The result was a red card to the Revs rookie and a penalty kick awarded to the 'Caps, who donned their arbutus brown kits for tonight's match. Camilo stepped up to the spot and converted, bringing the home side to their feet as Vancouver drew back within a goal.

With a man advantage, Vancouver found an equalizer on 39 minutes when Mitchell headed the ball forward to Miller. The Scotsman then flicked it over the head of Revs defender Stephen McCarthy, headed to himself, and slid a left-footer past Bobby Shuttleworth to make it 2-2.

Less than five minutes later the boys in Brown were in front. After a strong run from Nigel Reo-Coker, Teibert received the ball out right and crossed into Jordan Harvey who made no mistake from in close, scoring a third unanswered goal for the 'Caps as they went into the break up 3-2.

With the home side up a goal and a man, an interesting second 45 minutes awaited.

On 58 minutes, the Revs had a chance to equalize as Darius Barnes threw the ball in to McCarthy, who headed the ball on to ***undez, who himself sent a header towards goal that was easily grabbed by Knighton.

10 minutes later Miller provided some comfort for 'Caps fans with another beauty. After collecting a long ball forward from Camilo, Miller let the ball take a bounce, then fired a looping shot outside the box over the head of Shuttleworth for a 4-2 lead.

The Revs' had a chance to get a goal back on 73 minutes, when Tierney broke in on the left flank and fired a laser then flew just wide of the near post.

However, on 84 minutes, the visitors again got within a goal as second half substitute Dimitry Imbongo was sent in by Barnes andfired a shot past Knighton from the middle of the box, giving the Revs' something to fight for in the final five minutes of the match.

With nerves high in stoppage time, Rowe had a great chance to level the match late as a free kick taken by Shuttleworth ended up in the box, where the ball bounced off of Knighton to Rowe, but with an open goal in front of him he couldn't keep it on frame and sent a shot high.

On 95 minutes, the Revs' had a final chance on a free kick taken by Lee Nguyen, but a sprawling Knighton saved the day with a terrific tip over the net to preserve the lead.

Despite a few tense moments, the "˜Caps maintained their composure and rode out the storm to claim a 4-3 win and continue their seven-match unbeaten streak at home.

Next up, Whitecaps FC host Western Conference side Chivas USA this coming Wednesday, June 19 at BC Place. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. PT.

 

'Caps earn 13th point in 6 games, move up to 4th place in West

Vancouver Whitecaps FC (6W-5L-4D) earned their fourth win in their past six matches by seeing off the challenge of Chivas USA (3W-9L-2D) with a comfortable 3-1 victory in front of 16,130 fans at BC Place on Wednesday.

The victory kept the 'Caps undefeated at home this season and moved the Blue and White up to fourth place in the Western Conference. With two assists, Russell Teibert is now tied for the league lead with six - all in the past four matches. Camilo's two goals, meanwhile, now give him seven in his past six matches in all competitions, while Jordan Harvey's goal was his third in the past four matches.

For the first time this season head coach Martin Rennie named an unchanged lineup, with the team that started the weekend's 4-3 victory against New England Revolution also lining up against Chivas USA. Centre back Johnny Leveron started after returning from international duty with Honduras on Tuesday night.

Chivas USA took an early lead in the seventh minute when Carlos Alvarez fed the ball wide for Tristan Bowen with the striker unleashing a fizzing shot that appeared to deflect off of Harvey, sailing over Brad Knighton into the far corner of the net.

There was almost an equalizer for Whitecaps FC in the 18th minute when Russell Teibert took a quick throw-in from the right to Kenny Miller, who in turn sent an inviting cross in to Camilo. The Brazilian got his head on it from close range, but wide of target.

There was a nervy moment in the 25th minute for Whitecaps FC when a surging run forward by Jorge Villafana saw the midfielder find space for a shot, but a fine block from Leveron denied Chivas USA a second goal.

Some good combination play from Vancouver almost came off in the 33rd minute when a ball forward from Leveron was flicked by Camilo into the path of Miller. However the Scot's first time effort was drilled wide of the post with Whitecaps FC pushing for a goal to level the match.

That equalizer finally came on the stroke of halftime when Camilo played the ball through to Teibert two minutes into added time. The young winger cut the ball back across the box and, after a touch from Camilo, the ball fell to Harvey whose shot was deflected past Dan Kennedy and into the Chivas USA goal to make it 1-1.

That wasn't the end for the action in the first half though. Barely a minute later, Camilo grabbed another for Vancouver after running onto a ball from Teibert. The 'Caps in-form striker kept his composure and slotted the ball into the far corner to give Whitecaps FC a 2-1 lead going into the break. The one-minute and 22 seconds between goals was the fastest pair of tallies for the 'Caps since April 2, 2011, when Camilo scored two goals in added time to salvage a 3-3 draw at home to Sporting Kansas City.

At halftime, centre back Leveron received three stitches under his right eye after a collision in the first half with rookie Chivas USA midfielder Alvarez. But the 'Caps confidence was certainly not battered after a fine end to the first half as they looked to carry that momentum into the final 45 minutes.

After a quiet opening to the second half, Vancouver carved out an opportunity in the 66th minute when Teibert raced down the right wing and drilled a cross into the area. Camilo looked to get a first time shot away but a timely challenge denied him the chance.

Another chance came Vancouver's way in the 73rd minute when Camilo raced down the right wing and sent the ball across the box for Miller but again the ball was cleared before the striker could get a shot on target.

The match was finally wrapped up in the 81st minute. Teibert again beat his defender on the right wing before settling himself and picking out Harvey on the edge of the area. The defender played a quick one-two with Camilo before playing the ball back into the box. A deflection saw the ball fall kindly for the Brazilian, giving him enough space to lash in his second goal of the match. The third goal also brought Vancouver's season total to 25 goals scored in MLS, tied for the most in the league with Portland Timbers and with Whitecaps FC having played one less match.

There was a final sight of goal for Whitecaps FC two minutes into injury time when Reo-Coker won the ball in midfield and charged forward. The midfielder played the ball to his right to substitute Tommy Heinemann who in turn sent a cross to Camilo, who was open at the far post. The striker brought the ball down and tried a backheel finish but saw his effort cleared off the line. The rebound fell for Erik Hurtado who fired a shot at goal, but he too saw his shot blocked off the line as the match finished 3-1 to Vancouver.

After a performance that featured two goals and an assist, Camilo was awarded the Budweiser Man of the Match award.

Whitecaps FC now have a 10-day break from MLS action. The 'Caps next play next on June 29 as they travel to Washington, D.C. looking to improve on their 4W-1L-0D record against Eastern Conference sides this season. Kickoff at RFK Stadium will be at 4 p.m. PT.

MATCH DETAILS Budweiser Man of the Match: Camilo Sanvezzo

 

Camilo scores penalty to take the victory

Whitecaps FC (7W-5L-4D) battled to a 1-0 victory against D.C. United (2W-12L-3D) in front of 13,122 fans at RFK Memorial Stadium on Saturday as they continued their hot streak, recording their fifth win in seven matches.

A penalty kick from Camilo, after Matt Watson was taken down in the area, was the difference between the sides as Vancouver produced a solid defensive display and Brad Knighton made a number of key saves.

Post-match interviews with Martin Rennie, Matt Watson, & Brad Knighton: https://mlssoccer.box.com/s/7dx6q1yolf7bikwf24r0

With Young-Pyo Lee not travelling to D.C., head coach Martin Rennie replaced the fullback in the starting lineup with Jun Marques Davidson. Nigel Reo-Coker lined up at right back while Davidson started as the holding midfielder.

D.C. United almost took an early lead on 7 minutes when former "˜Caps midfielder Kyle Porter took a shot from point blank range but Whitecaps FC keeper Knighton pulled off a fine save to deny Porter. The follow up from Dwayne De Rosario was also well blocked by Carlyle Mitchell as Vancouver rode out the early barrage from D.C.

The game was proving to be an open affair and after 12 minutes there was a chance for Vancouver. A freekick from Camilo was headed on by a D.C. United defender to Russell Teibert at the back post. The Canadian international struck a powerful effort from a tight angle that hit the foot of the post and deflected away to safety.

Knighton needed to be alert on 24 minutes when De Rosario drilled in a searching cross from the right. Chris Pontius looked to get a touch to put the ball in but the keeper reacted quickly to snuff out the danger.

Five minutes later there was a further chance for Whitecaps FC when a corner from the left was cleared as far as Reo-Coker. The Englishman crossed the ball back into the middle with Watson getting in at the near post but directing his header wide.

There was another fine stop from Knighton on 34 minutes as former Whitecaps FC midfielder John Thorrington lined up a shot from outside the box but could not beat the keeper with his powerful strike as the teams went in level at halftime.

Whitecaps FC made a strong start after the break and were rewarded with a goal on 47 minutes. Kenny Miller played the ball through the United defence to Watson as the Englishman raced into the penalty area. Bill Hamid, the D.C. United keeper, hauled down Watson and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Camilo stepped up to take the penalty and smashed the ball down the middle to give Vancouver the lead.

There was relief for Vancouver when on 54 minutes, with United looking to get straight back into the match, Ethan White lined up a shot from distance that looked to be heading towards the bottom corner but was watched wide by Knighton.

A clever corner from Whitecaps FC in the 60th minute almost paid dividends as Teibert played a one-two with Miller before laying the ball off for Daigo Kobayashi. The midfielder drove forward and hammered a left-footed shot that went just wide of the post.

Vancouver came close twice in quick succession on 64 minutes as a cross from the right from Teibert found Miller who laid the ball off for Jordan Harvey. The left back rifled a shot on target that was palmed away by Hamid. From the rebound, Miller again played the ball to Harvey who this time found Teibert on the edge of the box. The Canuck's first time drilled effort was kept out by another impressive stop from Hamid.

D.C. United were finding it hard to break Vancouver's solid defence and were unable to create many chances in the second half but Whitecaps FC were still threatening and Miller wasn't far off with a long range strike in the 76th minute.

As the match wore on, D.C. United pressed Vancouver for an equalizer and in the third minute of added time D.C. brought Hamid up for a corner. The tactic almost paid off as the keeper got a head to the ball in the box but could not direct the header on target as Whitecaps FC held on for the win.

Head coach Martin Rennie was pleased with the work rate of his team as they extended their good run of form.

"I thought after about 20 minutes we became stronger in the first half and I thought we put really good pressure on the opposition," Rennie commented. "I thought we pressed really hard. Overall, I thought it was a really hard working performance, a well-deserved win. It's our second away win in the last three games, in the last seven games we're 5W-1L-1D so we're on a really good run at the moment. We've got confidence and it showed well today."

Matt Watson was awarded the Budweiser Man of the Match award for an industrious performance in midfield and for drawing the foul for the match-winning penalty kick.

Next up for Whitecaps FC is another away match against Eastern opposition as they take on Sporting Kansas City this Wednesday, July 3. Kickoff at Sporting Park is at 6p.m. PT.

 

Camilo nets his 10th goal of the season in hard fought draw

In front of a sell-out crowd at Sporting Park, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (7W-5L-5D) fought hard for a win, but came out with a 1-1 draw against Sporting Kansas City (7W-5L-6D) on Wednesday.

A first-half goal from Aurelien Collin gave the home side the lead, but an inch-perfect free kick from Camilo to end the first half allowed the 'Caps to grind out another point on the road.

Head coach Martin Rennie made two changes from his starting lineup in last Saturday's 1-0 win against DC United, with Brad Rusin and Corey Hertzog slotting in for Carlyle Mitchelland Russell Teibert, who are both away on international duty.

Just five minutes in, Sporting Kansas City midfield maestro Graham Zusi had the first chance of the match as his left-footed shot was stopped by a sprawling 'Caps goalkeeper Brad Knighton.

Nine minutes into the match, Nigel Reo-Coker, playing right back, intercepted a pass in midfield and stepped up for a shot, but it bent wide of the right post.

One minute later, Zusi sprung Kei Kamara, who blazed down the left side of the field, but before he could release a shot, Rusin slid into block his attempt.

In the 16th minute, the home side had another chance when Zusi passed the ball Kamara, who crossed the ball to Claudio Bieler, but the Argentine striker's sliding effort flew harmlessly wide.

On 24 minutes, SKC continued their offensive push as Oriol Rosell received the ball off of Zusi's corner kick and unleashed a swerving shot, however Knighton was there for the save. The rebound landed at the feet of Soony Saad, but the young American striker tapped the ball to the side of the net.

In the 35th minute, Collin gave his team the lead after cross from Rosell was headed down to the French defender by Chance Myers. Collin's first shot was blocked by Honduran international Johnny Leveron, but his second shot found the back of the net to give Sporting KC the 1-0 lead.

The 'Caps though, would not go into the break down a goal. On the last play before the break, Camilo continued his magnificent form as he equalized on a beautiful free kick from 22 yards out that found the top half of the net. It was a crucial goal that left the match on level terms going into the second half.

Vancouver came out with attacking intent after the midway mark. On 51 minutes, the 'Caps nearly took the lead as Kenny Miller controlled the ball nicely and crossed the ball to Camilo. The ball then popped out to Matt Watson for a shot, but it sailed high.

After some back and forth play in the middle of the park, Sporting KC had their own chance to take the lead on 60 minutes, when a corner kick taken by Zusi again found Kamara but his open header went over the top of the crossbar.

On 75 minutes, the home side had a key opportunity when Zusi found a bit of space around the top of the box, but his shot hit the right post and was cleared into safety.

As both sides pressed for the winner in the final 15 minutes, the central defensive pairing of Rusin and Leveron - together for the first time - did well to clear a multitude of chances.

The final minutes made for a tense end to the match. With just over a minute left in added time, Kamara fired a screamer from outside the box, but the ball flew wide. A minute later, Rusin again came up with a block, this time on Zusi in the box. Shortly after, the final whistle blew and gave extended Vancouver run to four straight matches undefeated.

Next up, the Blue and White return home to host Cascadia arch-rivals Seattle Sounders FC this Saturday, July 6, at BC Place. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. PT and will be live on TSN and TEAM 1410.

Budweiser Man of the Match: Johnny Leveron

 

Camilo scores 'Caps 100th goal in MLS, now MLS leading scorer

Vancouver Whitecaps FC (9W-5L-5D) continued their impressive form in front of 20,206 fans at BC Place on Sunday as they saw off Chicago Fire (6W-9L-3D) with a comfortable 3-1 win.

Camilo scored a quick brace in the second half with substitute Kekuta Manneh adding a third. Whitecaps FC looked on course for a second successive clean sheet as well until Chicago pulled a goal back in added time. The victory brings their unbeaten streak to six matches and keeps the 'Caps as the only remaining undefeated team at home in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Head coach Martin Rennie named the same starting lineup that sealed the historic win against Cascadia rivals Seattle Sounders FC last weekend. There was a change on the bench though for Vancouver as Danish goalkeeper David Ousted was named as a substitute for the first time following his move from Randers FC.

There was some early action for Brad Knighton as the reigning MLS Player of the Week had to make a close-range save from Chris Rolfe in the second minute after Mike Magee pumped the ball into the Whitecaps FC box.

Chicago came even closer on 10 minutes when the referee awarded the Fire a dubious looking corner. Magee drilled the ball to the front post where Jeff Larentowicz met the delivery with a downward header, but the in-form Knighton managed to smother the chance with another fine stop.

A sensational opener came close on 41 minutes when a ball forward from Knighton was headed on by Chicago defender Austin Berry and landed perfectly for Kenny Miller . The Scottish striker struck a sweet left-footed volley from 25 yards that sailed agonizingly wide of the goal.

Pressing forward, there was another chance two minutes later when some tenacious play from Miller resulted in a throw-in for Whitecaps FC. Corey Hertzog launched the ball into the box where Berry again headed the ball on favourably for Vancouver as the ball fell to Camilo in front on goal, but the Brazilian lofted his shot over the bar as the teams went in level at the break, 0-0.

Clearly motivated to keep their home unbeaten record intact, the 'Caps came out flying in the second half. They nearly had the perfect start with some good link up play on the right on 47 minutes. Young-Pyo Lee played the ball in to Gershon Koffie and the midfielder marauded forward before laying it off to Miller. From outside the box, the striker caressed a sublime curling effort that looked to be heading in but rebounded off the inside of the post before being cleared to safety.

There was a clearer sight on goal for Miller on 52 minutes when Camilo delivered a searching ball in from the right that found the Scot at the back post. However, a missed swing from Austin Berry was enough to distract Miller as his contact on the ball was not enough to tap into the gaping net.

Despite Vancouver's dominance after halftime, it was Chicago who next had an opportunity when on 56 minutes they broke quickly. Magee floated a ball into the box that found Rolfe free at the back post. However, with an open chance, Rolfe could not direct his header on goal.

Chicago came close again on the hour when Magee cut in from the right and fired off a speculative effort from well outside the box that went narrowly wide. There was a sense of déjàvu when a minute later the striker found space outside the area and again fired just wide with his weaker left foot.

Vancouver looked to gain momentum once again and almost scored on 63 minutes when Nigel Reo-Coker played in Lee and the fullback struck a low shot towards the far post that was only kept out by a smart save from Fire 'keeper Paolo Tornaghi.

On 66 minutes, Whitecaps FC finally got the goal that their second half efforts deserved. The play began when Knighton launched the ball forward for Camilo. The striker then controlled the high ball, cleverly poked past Rolfe and Shaun Francis. Once in the box, the Brazilian turned Francis again before finishing past Tornaghi for the opening goal.

Five minutes later, Vancouver doubled their lead when substitute Manneh played the ball through the Fire defence for the onrushing Camilo. The Brazilian looked to have lost the chance when he was dispossessed by Tornaghi, but he won back the ball and finished under the Chicago 'keeper for his second of the afternoon - bringing him to the top of the MLS goalscoring race with 12 goals on the season, which also matches his 2011 total.

Chicago still had some fight in them and almost got a foot back into the match on 76 minutes when a cross was headed back across the box by Maicon Santos to Magee. The striker struck a fierce close-range shot that was kept out by a lunging block from Brad Rusin to prevent an almost certain goal.

With a hat-trick in his sights, there was almost another goal for Camilo with 10 minutes remaining when Reo-Coker played the ball wide for Miller to drive in a cross from the right. Camilo got on the end of the cross but his scuffed effort was saved comfortably by Tornaghi.

Whitecaps FC sealed the win on 83 minutes after some persistent play from Manneh as he looked to make space for a cross from the left. His initial delivery was blocked but just when it looked like he would play the ball across again, the young rookie fired a low shot into the near corner for Vancouver's third goal.

Despite the commanding lead, there was still work to do for Knighton when on 89 minutes Magee again tried his luck from outside the box but the 'keeper kept out the strike with a strong save.

The 'Caps were eventually beaten in the fourth minute of added time when Fire substitute Joel Lindpere crossed to Maicon Santos, whose header struck the post. The ball fell again to Lindpere and the Estonian swung in a second cross that this time was headed in by Patrick Nyarko to make the final score 3-1 to Whitecaps FC.

After adding two goals to his MLS-leading tally, Camilo was awarded the Budweiser Man of the Match award.

Next up for the in-form Blue and White is a trip to California to take on two-time defending MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy. Kickoff next Saturday, July 20, is at 7:30 p.m. PT at the StubHub Center.

 

Camilo opens scoring but Galaxy fight back

Whitecaps FC (9W-6L-5D) fell to their first defeat in seven matches as they lost to LA Galaxy (10W-8L-3D) to a score of 2-1 at the StubHub Center on Saturday.

Camilo opened scoring with his 13th MLS goal of the season, maintaining his position as the league's leading scorer. But the Galaxy fought back and after a controversial equalizer from Jose Villarreal, rookie Gyasi Zardes scored the winner to deny Whitecaps FC points for the first time since June 8.

There was one change to the starting lineup as Russell Teibert returned to the starting XI for the first time since a 1-0 win against D.C. United on June 29, after representing represented Canada at the Gold Cup. Corey Hertzog dropped to the bench to accommodate Teibert's return while Young-Pyo Lee took part in his first away match since Whitecaps FC took on Seattle on June 8.

Whitecaps FC suffered an early scare as Marcelo Sarvas controlled a cross from the right flank in the second minute and put in a shot at the near post from close range. Goalkeeper Brad Knighton looked every bit the man in form as he got down well to deny the early chance.

Three minutes later, Villarreal got down the left wing and swung in a deep cross. Hector Jimenez powered a header past Knighton but Brad Rusin read the situation perfectly and produced a brilliant clearance on the line as Vancouver rode their luck in the early stages.

Whitecaps FC lost the ball in midfield in the ninth minute with Jimenez taking the opportunity to drive forward, advancing towards the area. The midfielder set his sights and struck a powerful effort that cannoned back off the crossbar. The ball fell to Zardes but the young striker couldn't get a shot on target from two attempts.

Another opportunity came the way of the rookie striker on 13 minutes as Todd Dunivant played it in to Zardes wide on the left. The rookie forward lined up an effort from a tight angle but Knighton got behind the shot to keep the ball out.

Despite the early pressure, Whitecaps FC notched the first goal on 19 minutes as Lee pumped the ball forward towards Teibert. The young Canadian flicked the ball on to Camilo who stayed just onside, advanced on goal and kept his composure to finish under the advancing Carlo Cudicini.

LA Galaxy got an equalizer in controversial circumstances on 29 minutes when they won a free kick in Vancouver's half. The ball was played into the box and Omar Gonzalez headed back across goal. Villerreal bundled the ball home from close range, but initially the linesman and the referee disallowed the goal calling an offside. Moments later, the decision was reversed and the goal was awarded.

The teams went in at the break level at 1-1 but, after a quiet opening to the second half, LA Galaxy took the lead in the 57 minute. Zardes ran onto a long ball over the 'Caps defence and stopped the ball near the byline. The striker cut back past Rusin and buried a low effort past Knighton at the near post.

The Galaxy almost got a third in the 61st minute as they continued to press Vancouver. Villarreal collected the ball well outside the area and struck an ambitious shot that only just cleared Knighton's bar. With time running out for Whitecaps FC, substitute Kekuta Manneh stole the ball off Juninho in midfield and slid a perfect through ball beyond the Galaxy defence to Kenny Miller. The striker struck a low shot but Cudicini was able to keep the shot out.

In the second minute of added time, Whitecaps FC got a last chance to sneak a leveler when Camilo was fouled just outside the box. The Brazilian lined up the set piece and struck a powerful effort but the strike deflected off the wall and wide as LA Galaxy saw the match out.

Despite the result, a strong performance at the centre of defence including a last-ditch clearance in the first half earned Brad Rusin the Budweiser Man of the Match award.

After the trip to California, Whitecaps FC now return home to host former striker Sebastien Le Toux and Philadelphia Union at BC Place on Saturday, July 27 in the only meeting this season between the two sides. Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. PT. Tickets are available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

 

10-man 'Caps put in strong effort but come up short

In front of a sell-out crowd of 21,000 fans at BC Place, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (9W-7L-5D) saw their home unbeaten streak halted at 10 matches as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Philadelphia Union (9W-6L-7D) in a hard-fought match on Saturday night.

Despite a number of great chances for the 'Caps, it was Philadelphia who came out with the full three points as striker Antoine Hoppenot sprung free and buried the winner in the 85th minute.

Head coach Martin Rennie made no changes to his starting lineup from last week's road match against LA Galaxy.

It did not take long for the action to begin. On three minutes Union midfielder Danny Cruz broke down the left wing and fired a shot that rolled past the far post.

On six minutes, 'Caps 'keeper Brad Knighton was called upon and continued his fine form. A scramble in the 'Caps box ended with Brian Carroll getting a shot off, but Knighton rushed out and quickly deflected his attempt to safety.

Disaster struck for the home side on eight minutes when Union striker Keon Daniel made an aggressive tackle on Jun Marques Davidson. The Japanese-born American did not take kindly to the challenge and responded with a head butt to the back of Daniel, which saw him receive a prompt a red card from referee Baldomero Toledo and an ejection from the match.

Despite being down a man, the home side harnessed the energy of the stadium to mount a number of offensive attacks.

A close call for the 'Caps came on 15 minutes as Russell Teibert received a splendid ball from Miller on the left flank and lofted a one-time volley over the head of Union goalkeeper Zac MacMath, but just on top of the net.

On 27 minutes, Teibert was the playmaker as he set up a chance for Young-Pyo Lee. The young Canadian played a clever ball into the box to Lee, but the Korean fired high.

Five minutes before the break, Camilo collected the ball at the top of the attacking third of the field and passed the ball to Miller, who did really well to cut past his defender, but unfortunately for the Scotsman his shot from the top of the box flashed past the outside of MacMath's right post.

With an eventful, but scoreless, first half behind them, Vancouver regrouped and came out strong after the break.

Just under two minutes into the second half, Miller was subbed out of the match with tightness in his right adductor and was replaced by Kekuta Manneh.

The rookie nearly made an immediate impact on 50 minutes when he received a pass from Camilo in the box, and from a very tight angle beat MacMath before the ball agonizingly bounced back off the far post and stayed out to keep the match at 0-0.

On 68 minutes, Manneh had another chance as he carried the ball through the midfield and fired a rocket from the top of the box that was caught by a diving MacMath.

Just five minutes later, Amobi Okugo nearly countered for the Union. Le Toux put a well-placed corner into the box, but the defender's glancing header flew wide of the far post.

Another substitution had to be made for Vancouver on 82 minutes when centre back Brad Rusin came off with a right hip contusion and was replaced by Carlyle Mitchell, who recently returned from the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

The 'Caps looked the more likely to score despite being down a man, but they were dealt a dagger from the visitors with five minutes to play. After Mitchell initially blocked a through ball from Hoppenot, substitute strikers and Aaron Wheeler and Hoppenot connected. Wheeler picked up the loose ball and back-heeled it back to Hoppenot, who then cut in and finished past Knighton for a late 1-0 lead.

With the crowd urging them on, the 'Caps fought valiantly to keep their home streak alive, but in the end the final whistle blew to confirm their first home defeat of the season.

Next up, Whitecaps FC travel to Oregon to face Pacific Northwest rivals Portland Timbers in a crucial Cascadia Cup match at JELD-WEN Field. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. PT.

 

Camilo and Miller score in second half as 'Caps move up to second place

As they've done so often this season, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (10-7L-6D) walked away from BC Place with an important three points Saturday on the strength of some more heroics from in-form strikers Kenny Miller and Camilo Sanvezzo.

The crafty Brazilian jumped back into a tie atop the MLS Golden Boot race with his 14th goal of the season as the "˜Caps returned to the win column with a 2-0 victory over San Jose Earthquakes (8W-10L-6D).

Midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker also turned in one of his most dominant performances of the season, setting up both goals and earning Budweiser Man of the Match honours.

With the victory, Whitecaps FC put an end to San Jose's three-match win streak and snapped a three-match winless spell of their own.

The Blue and White also jumped into second-place in the always-competitive Western Conference and created a six-point cushion over the eighth-place Quakes.

After serving his one-match suspension, midfielder Gershon Koffie returned to Martin Rennie's starting XI - this time in a holding role to replace injured defender Brad Rusin. Miller, whose strained right adductor kept him on the sidelines during last weekend's 1-1 draw in Portland, also drew back into the lineup, taking the place of rookie winger Kekuta Manneh.

Meanwhile, Danish 'keeper David Ousted earned his second straight start and made four saves en route to his first MLS victory - and clean sheet. It was also his first appearance at BC Place.

It was a tale of two halves Saturday with the opening frame seeing little of any action before the two sides started trading chances after the break.

Both sides seemed weary of surrendering the always-important opening goal in the opening 45 minutes. Vancouver enjoyed several extended spells of possession, but simply couldn't crack the stingy "˜Quakes back line.

They came close in the seventh minute, however, when a lively Russell Teibert earned a free kick after getting hauled down by Quakes defender Clarence Goodson.

On his strong side, Camilo stepped up to the ball five yards from touch and curled in a dangerous cross to the near post, which Miller flicked on just over the goal.

The Scottish international had another opportunity in the 27th minute when a long-distance Teibert strike opportunistically landed at his foot at the top of the box. Miller turned and fired but it was no trouble for Quakes keeper Jon Busch.

San Jose's only real chance of the first half came in the 39th minute, when midfielder Cordell Cato blasted a low right-footed shot from about 16 yards.

The Trinidadian's strike deflected off fullback Jordan Harvey and flew between the legs of defender Johnny Leveron but Ousted brought the crowd to its feet with a miraculous sprawling save to keep matters scoreless.

Looking to break the deadlock, both sides came out looking far more energized in the second half. As expected, opposing strikers Camilo and Chris Wondolowski were in the middle of the action.

After two half-chances from the Brazilian striker, Wondolowski came within inches of opening the scoring in the 55th minute. In the build-up, Goodson headed a Quakes free kick across the goalmouth to the reigning MLS Most Valuable Player, but Reo-Coker was there to make a heroic goal-line block.

The Englishman was at it again just a few minutes later - this time, at the other end of the pitch - helping the "˜Caps break through with a brilliant run capped off with a clinical left-footed finish from Camilo.

After picking up the ball deep in his own end, Reo-Coker blew by no less than two defenders with a powerful run down the right flank and sent in a perfect low cross to Camilo, whose sliding first-time strike eluded a sprawling Busch to give the "˜Caps a 1-0 lead.

The Blue and White added an insurance marker 10 minutes later and the Budweiser Man of the Match was involved again.

Teibert started the play with a nifty pass to a streaking Reo-Coker at the top of the box, but the Englishman whiffed on his first-time effort. Fortunately, the ball fell to a wide-open Miller inside the area and the 33-year-old striker made no mistake, burying his seventh goal of the season. The Scotsman departed soon after the match as he gets set to represent his home nation in a highly-anticipated friendly against England on August 14 at Wembley Stadium.

The goal was Vancouver's 36th of the season, which sets a new club record in MLS.

San Jose manufactured a decent pushback in the dying stages of the match, but it was not to be as the "˜Caps held on to claim their 10th win of the season.

The victory was Vancouver's eighth at home this season - more than any other Major League Soccer side. It also ties the club record set during the 2012 campaign.

With an important three points in their back pocket, the "˜Caps will be looking to continue their climb up the table a week from today when they visit the surging Colorado Rapids in another important Western Conference showdown.

 

Camilo and Miller score in second half as 'Caps move up to second place

As they've done so often this season, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (10-7L-6D) walked away from BC Place with an important three points Saturday on the strength of some more heroics from in-form strikers Kenny Miller and Camilo Sanvezzo.

The crafty Brazilian jumped back into a tie atop the MLS Golden Boot race with his 14th goal of the season as the "˜Caps returned to the win column with a 2-0 victory over San Jose Earthquakes (8W-10L-6D).

Midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker also turned in one of his most dominant performances of the season, setting up both goals and earning Budweiser Man of the Match honours.

With the victory, Whitecaps FC put an end to San Jose's three-match win streak and snapped a three-match winless spell of their own.

The Blue and White also jumped into second-place in the always-competitive Western Conference and created a six-point cushion over the eighth-place Quakes.

After serving his one-match suspension, midfielder Gershon Koffie returned to Martin Rennie's starting XI - this time in a holding role to replace injured defender Brad Rusin. Miller, whose strained right adductor kept him on the sidelines during last weekend's 1-1 draw in Portland, also drew back into the lineup, taking the place of rookie winger Kekuta Manneh.

Meanwhile, Danish 'keeper David Ousted earned his second straight start and made four saves en route to his first MLS victory - and clean sheet. It was also his first appearance at BC Place.

It was a tale of two halves Saturday with the opening frame seeing little of any action before the two sides started trading chances after the break.

Both sides seemed weary of surrendering the always-important opening goal in the opening 45 minutes. Vancouver enjoyed several extended spells of possession, but simply couldn't crack the stingy "˜Quakes back line.

They came close in the seventh minute, however, when a lively Russell Teibert earned a free kick after getting hauled down by Quakes defender Clarence Goodson.

On his strong side, Camilo stepped up to the ball five yards from touch and curled in a dangerous cross to the near post, which Miller flicked on just over the goal.

The Scottish international had another opportunity in the 27th minute when a long-distance Teibert strike opportunistically landed at his foot at the top of the box. Miller turned and fired but it was no trouble for Quakes keeper Jon Busch.

San Jose's only real chance of the first half came in the 39th minute, when midfielder Cordell Cato blasted a low right-footed shot from about 16 yards.

The Trinidadian's strike deflected off fullback Jordan Harvey and flew between the legs of defender Johnny Leveron but Ousted brought the crowd to its feet with a miraculous sprawling save to keep matters scoreless.

Looking to break the deadlock, both sides came out looking far more energized in the second half. As expected, opposing strikers Camilo and Chris Wondolowski were in the middle of the action.

After two half-chances from the Brazilian striker, Wondolowski came within inches of opening the scoring in the 55th minute. In the build-up, Goodson headed a Quakes free kick across the goalmouth to the reigning MLS Most Valuable Player, but Reo-Coker was there to make a heroic goal-line block.

The Englishman was at it again just a few minutes later - this time, at the other end of the pitch - helping the "˜Caps break through with a brilliant run capped off with a clinical left-footed finish from Camilo.

After picking up the ball deep in his own end, Reo-Coker blew by no less than two defenders with a powerful run down the right flank and sent in a perfect low cross to Camilo, whose sliding first-time strike eluded a sprawling Busch to give the "˜Caps a 1-0 lead.

The Blue and White added an insurance marker 10 minutes later and the Budweiser Man of the Match was involved again.

Teibert started the play with a nifty pass to a streaking Reo-Coker at the top of the box, but the Englishman whiffed on his first-time effort. Fortunately, the ball fell to a wide-open Miller inside the area and the 33-year-old striker made no mistake, burying his seventh goal of the season. The Scotsman departed soon after the match as he gets set to represent his home nation in a highly-anticipated friendly against England on August 14 at Wembley Stadium.

The goal was Vancouver's 36th of the season, which sets a new club record in MLS.

San Jose manufactured a decent pushback in the dying stages of the match, but it was not to be as the "Caps held on to claim their 10th win of the season.

The victory was Vancouver's eighth at home this season - more than any other Major League Soccer side. It also ties the club record set during the 2012 campaign.

With an important three points in their back pocket, the "˜Caps will be looking to continue their climb up the table a week from today when they visit the surging Colorado Rapids in another important Western Conference showdown.

 

Whitecaps FC lose out in closely fought encounter with Colorado Rapids

After a closely fought battle, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (10W-8L-6D) were unfortunate not to come away with a share of the spoils as they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Colorado Rapids (10W-7L-9D) Saturday in a Western Conference crunch match at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

Colorado scored a goal in each half en route to the victory, which gives them sole possession of second place in the Western Conference standings.

The 'Caps, meanwhile, drop to fifth place - though they still have two games in hand over the Rapids. Saturday's contest was the first of three meetings between Vancouver and Colorado this season.

Whitecaps FC head coach Martin Rennie went with the same starting lineup from last weekend's win against San Jose Earthquakes, but there was a return to the 18-man squad for Darren Mattocks. The Jamaican international, who hadn't played since Vancouver's 3-1 win against Chicago Fire on July 14, took the place of rookie winger Kekuta Manneh on the bench for Whitecaps FC.

The first chance of the match went to Colorado after they were awarded a free kick outside the Vancouver box in the fourth minute. The set piece was floated in but put behind for a corner by midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker. The drilled-in corner found an unmarked Hendry Thomas, who directed a powerful header just over the bar.

The Rapids were looking dangerous early on and created another opportunity on 11 minutes when a well-worked move saw Dillon Powers receive the ball well outside the area before unleashing a fierce effort at goal that went just wide.

In the 16th minute, Whitecaps FC nearly carved out an opportunity of their own as they broke quickly. Camilo controlled a long ball up-field before laying off for striker Kenny Miller, who in turn played the ball to Russell Teibert. The young Canadian international unleashed a long range effort that deflected off a defender and only just cleared the bar.

Vancouver continued to press in the 26th minute. A strong tackle in midfield from Daigo Kobayashi started the play, which led to a neat one-two between Teibert and Camilo. Teibert eventually found himself one-on-one with Colorado keeper Clint Irwin, but was unable to get a shot away before Irwin smothered the chance.

Teibert was in the thick of things again in the 34th minute when he raced towards the box with the Rapids defence standing off him. Just when it looked like the Canuck was about to pull the trigger, he played a ball through the defence to Miller who struck a first time shot that was well saved by Irwin.

The miss proved costly, as two minutes later a cross from Sanchez was met by Rapids striker Deshorn Brown at the back post. The rookie buried a header past David Ousted to give the Rapids the lead.

The teams went in at half time with the Rapids 1-0 up and they looked to double that lead early after the break when Thomas unleashed a powerful effort from well outside the box on 47 minutes. The shot fizzed past the post, although Ousted looked to have it covered.

There was a chance to make it a debut to remember for Colorado's new Designated Player Gabriel Torres. The Panamanian international received the ball in the Vancouver half and raced towards goal but Ousted alertly left his line to collect the ball from Torres' feet.

With time running out for Whitecaps FC to find a way back into the game, Mattocks was brought on to try and inject some pace into the attack and the change almost paid immediate dividends on 66 minutes. Reo-Coker played the ball through to Camilo, whose flick-on released substitute Mattocks. The Jamaican raced through the Colorado defence and found himself one-on-one with Irwin but his finish was well kept out by the Rapids' keeper.

With 10 minutes remaining, Colorado wrapped up the points when substitute Edson Buddle made a telling difference of his own. The veteran striker lined up a shot from just inside the area that took a deflection off defender Johnny Leveron to wrong foot Ousted and make it 2-0 to the Rapids.

A minute later, Colorado looked to have a third as they broke quickly from a Whitecaps FC corner. Martin Rivero sent goalscorer Brown clear on goal, but Ousted stood up and produced a fine save to keep the score 2-0.

Despite some late pressure, the 'Caps were unable to find a way back into the match as Colorado extended their unbeaten run to nine matches. After putting in a hardworking shift, midfielder Gershon Koffie was awarded the Budweiser Man of the Match award. It was his second straight match as a holding midfielder.

 

Early goal from Landon Donovan sinks 'Caps in closely contested affair

Coming into Saturday's Western Conference grudge match, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (10W-9L-6D) had scored the most goals at home while LA Galaxy (12W-9L-4D) had scored - and conceded - the most on the road.

It had the makings of a wildly entertaining affair. Unfortunately for the Blue and White, however, it ended in heartbreak as the Whitecaps FC suffered a 1-0 defeat to the two-time defending MLS Cup champions in their third and final meeting of the 2013 MLS regular season

In total, the "˜Caps launched 12 shots towards the Galaxy goal - including a late Kekuta Manneh strike that hit the woodwork. They did just about everything but score and it was not to be as the Galaxy walked away with an important three points - increasing their lead to four points over the now sixth-place "˜Caps.

Martin Rennie made three changes to his starting lineup after last weekend's 2-0 loss to Colorado Rapids. For the first time since suffering a hamstring strain on June 8 in Seattle, centre back Andy O'Brien returned to the starting XI - replacing Carlyle Mitchell.

Second-year striker Darren Mattocks also got the call, taking the place of Camilo who was held out as a precaution with a tight groin. It was the Jamaican's first start since Vancouver's 3-1 win over Los Angeles in May - a match in which he scored. Meanwhile, Matt Watson replaced Daigo Kobayashi in midfield.

Much of the talk in advance of Saturday's contest was surrounding the Galaxy's red-hot striking tandem of Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan, who had scored a combined eight goals in LA's last three outings.

And they came as advertised, as the Galaxy opened the scoring in the third minute on the strength of Donovan's seventh goal of the season.

In the build-up, Galaxy defender A.J. DeLaGarza played a ball meant for Keane, but centre back Johnny Leveron stepped in to disrupt the play. Luck was not on the side of Vancouver on this day though. After Leveron's poke, the ball quickly fell to a streaking Donovan at the top of the box and the American international let loose a clinical left-footed strike that found the top left corner of the "˜Caps goal to make it 1-0 for the visitors. As it would turn out, that would be the Galaxy's only shot on target all match.

Aside from the goal, the "˜Caps contained Donovan and Keane for most of the first half, though the Irish international did have two half-chances from the top of the box - both of which sailed just over the goal.

The "˜Caps managed to limit the Galaxy duo thanks in part to the marking of midfielder Gershon Koffie, who continues to impress in the holding role. The Ghanaian had a crack of his own in the 10th minute, but his long-range strike curled just wide of the goal.

Just minutes later, Vancouver had another good opportunity to equalize after Mattocks and a lively Russell Teibert played a clever one-two down the right flank. After receiving the ball near the Galaxy end line, Mattocks blasted a driven cross to an unmarked Kenny Miller, but the play was called back due to a Miller handball.

Leveron and Reo-Coker also came close for the "˜Caps late in the first half, but nothing materialized as the Galaxy took a 1-0 lead into the interval.

After an evenly played opening 45 minutes - in which the "˜Caps enjoyed 55 per cent of possession - the "˜Caps had the Galaxy on their heels for most of the second half.

Their first real chance came in the 53rd minute when Miller found himself all alone in the Galaxy area after Mattocks missed a Teibert cross. However, with a sliding DeLaGarza approaching, the Scotsman's first-time left-footed strike sailed high and wide.

Vancouver continued to press towards the Galaxy goal but had great difficulty breaking through in the final third of the field.

Second-half substitute Kekuta Manneh, who seemed to inject some life into Whitecaps FC attack, nearly found an equalizer in the 81st minute. The Gambian uncorked a wicked 35-yard effort only to see it ring agonizingly off the post. The ensuing rebound fell to an unmarked Jordan Harvey but Galaxy goalkeeper Jaime Penedo denied the defender with a spectacular last-ditch diving save - one that will surely be a favourite for MLS Save of the Year.

With a sold-out crowd at their feet, the "˜Caps applied relentless pressure in the dying stages of the match. However, much to the dismay of the home crowd, the boys in white simply could not find the back of the net as the match ended in a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat.

Whitecaps FC are back at BC Place next weekend when they host Chivas USA, who currently occupy the basement of the Western Conference with 18 points. Tickets are still available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

 

Late goals sink 'Caps at FC Dallas Stadium

They came within minutes of walking away with at least a point, but Vancouver Whitecaps FC (10W-10L-7D) couldn't withstand a late FC Dallas (10W-7L-10D) onslaught as they suffered a heartbreaking 3-1 defeat Saturday in Frisco, Texas.

Midfielder Daigo Kobayashi opened the scoring in the fourth minute but FC Dallas scored three unanswered goals - two in the dying stages of the match - to secure the victory.

With the loss, Whitecaps FC drop to seventh place in the Western Conference - three points shy of fourth-place Dallas.

With Russell Teibert away on international duty, Whitecaps FC head coach Martin Rennie made three changes to his starting lineup after last weekend's 2-2 draw with Chivas USA.

Back from suspension, midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker replaced Young-Pyo Lee at right back, Kobayashi took the place of Kekuta Manneh at right wing, and defender Carlyle Mitchell slotted in at centre back, moving Johnny Leveron into the holding midfielder position alongside Gershon Koffie for the first time this season.

Although he did not figure in the action, Jay DeMerit also made a return to Vancouver's 18-man squad on Saturday. It was DeMerit's first selection since suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon in Vancouver's March 2 season opener.

Saturday's contest got off to a frantic start in Frisco, as both sides pressed in search of the all-important opening goal. Dallas had the first chance less than a minute into the match, but it was Vancouver who struck first just a few minutes later.

Possession was hard to come by for Whitecaps FC in the first half, but their new-look attacking trio had no trouble keeping the ball in the build-up to Kobayashi's fourth-minute tally.

After receiving a pass from Kobayashi in midfield, Camilo found fellow striker Kenny Miller open down the right wing. The Scotsman then sent a perfect low cross into the box and Kobayashi finished first time with a nifty side-footed effort to give the visiting "˜Caps an early advantage. It was the Japanese midfielder's first MLS goal since Vancouver's second match of the season.

It was a dream start for Whitecaps FC, who had never scored a road goal at Dallas coming into the match, but their lead didn't last long.

Things took a turn in the eighth minute when Dallas equalized through a blistering strike from Jamaican midfielder Je-Vaughn Watson. Watson's equalizer seemed to inspire the Texas outfit, who enjoyed several extended spells of possession throughout the next 35 minutes.

With strikers Blas Perez and Kenny Cooper out of the lineup, it was Fabian Castillo and David Ferreira creating most of the offence for FC Dallas. The two nearly combined in the 35th minute when Castillo found Ferreira inside Vancouver's area, but the Colombian flicked the ball just wide of the target.

Ferreira had another opportunity in the 41st minute, but Andy O'Brien's sliding clearance saved the day before the halftime whistle sounded with the score 1-1.

The "˜Caps came out of the interval looking more settled. Dallas continued to enjoy most of the possession, but for the most part Vancouver managed to keep them from away dangerous areas.

In fact, Kobayashi had the first real chance of the second half in the 49th minute. After receiving the ball out wide, the lively Japanese midfielder tiptoed around two defenders before going for goal from the top of the box. Nothing came of it, however, as Dallas 'keeper Chris Seitz smothered the ball to keep things level.

Dallas didn't have much of a sniff at goal until the 57th minute, and it was the usual suspects involved in the action. First, Castillo found himself in a one-on-one situation with O'Brien inside the box, but the dependable "˜Caps centre back did well to block the Colombian's effort. The ensuing rebound fell to Ferreira, and this time it was Leveron who cleared the ball from danger.

Looking to break the deadlock, Rennie made two tactical substitutions after the hour-mark. First, Lee entered the match for Kobayashi, and then Erik Hurtado replaced Matt Watson.

Hurtado made a few promising runs, but couldn't break through. The single goal the 'Caps had on the board was not enough in the end, as Dallas scored the eventual winner in the 87th minute through a superb volley from substitute Mauro Diaz.

Fellow substitute Jair Benitez delivered the dagger in the 89th minute with a wonder-strike from just inside the halfway line to secure the important victory for FC Dallas.

While the result sees the 'Caps remain out of a playoff position, they're certainly far from out of it. They have seven matches remaining in the regular season, starting next Saturday, September 14, at San Jose Earthquakes.

They conclude their road trip the following week at Montreal before hosting first-place Real Salt Lake on Saturday, September 28 at BC Place.

 

Whitecaps FC play to a draw

ancouver Whitecaps FC (10W-10L-8D) and San Jose Earthquakes (10W-11L-8D) remain deadlocked in the Western Conference playoff race after the two sides settled for a scoreless draw Saturday night at Buck Shaw Stadium.

A heroic effort from centre backs Brad Rusin, Carlyle Mitchell and Jay DeMerit, who made his much-anticipated return to the lineup, salvaged an important point for Whitecaps FC, who finish the night five points outside the playoff picture.

Dating back to last May, the "˜Caps are now unbeaten in five straight matches against the 2012 Supporters' Shield winners. They conclude the season series with a 1W-0L-2D record.

Saturday's contest was a test of character and depth for both teams. The Earthquakes were without Rafael Baca and Steven Lenhart due to suspension, while Vancouver's centre back partnership of Andy O'Brien (sore) and Johnny Leveron (calf strain) were sidelined with injuries.

For the second straight week, Martin Rennie's side was also forced to play without Russell Teibert, who was a late omission due to illness.

In their absence, Rusin returned to the lineup for the first time since suffering a sprained right ankle August 3 against Portland, and Jun Marques Davidson was reinserted into the holding midfielder position.

Midfielder Matt Watson also drew back into Rennie's XI - as did South Korean right back Young-Pyo Lee.

Despite missing several key players, the visiting "˜Caps got off to a lively start on the campus of Santa Clara University. They dominated possession in the first few minutes and managed to keep their form for much of the first half.

San Jose had the first real chance of the match off a corner kick in the 19th minute, however. Striker Alan Gordon flicked a dangerous-looking header towards goal, but goalkeeper David Ousted made a sprawling save to keep matters scoreless.

Aside from Gordon's early opportunity, there wasn't much to give between the Western Conference rivals early. Neither side was willing to give an inch, which was expected given the magnitude of the match.

It was a physical battle from the onset and that appeared to take its toll on Rusin, who was heavily involved in the action early.

In obvious pain, Rusin hobbled off the pitch just after the half-hour mark, which signalled the much-anticipated return of DeMerit. It was his first appearance since suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon in Vancouver's March 2 season opener.

The 33-year-old centre back assumed the captain's armband in the second half, but not before his predecessor Kenny Miller nearly opened the scoring in the 45th minute.

After beating Victor Bernardez to the ball and making a run along the goal line, Miller got off a shot in tight but "˜Quakes keeper Jon Busch made the save and the Scotsman sent the rebound over the goal. It was Vancouver's best chance of the first half, in which they enjoyed 57 per cent of the possession.

San Jose came out of the interval looking a little more energized. Reigning MLS Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski had a pair of opportunities early, but DeMerit and Mitchell managed to keep him at bay.

It was a fearless performance from Vancouver's centre backs against a San Jose squad notoriously dangerous in the air. With the "˜Quakes pressing, DeMerit also prevented a Marvin Chavez opportunity in the 70th minute with a well-timed sliding block. For his efforts, the 'Caps skipper was named Budwesier Man of the Match.

Substitute Darren Mattocks nearly scored the winner in stoppage time but his right-footed effort from the top of the box trickled just wide of the left post.

With a sellout crowd urging them on, the "˜Quakes applied relentless pressure in the dying stages of the match but the "˜Caps managed to hold them off as the two sides battled to a hard-fought draw.

Whitecaps FC conclude their three-match road swing next Saturday against Canadian rival Montreal Impact (11 a.m. PT kickoff), before returning home to host Real Salt Lake the following week.

 

Massive win in Montreal
Goals from Miller and Camilo carry 'Caps to important road win



MONTREAL, QUE – In case there was ever any doubt, the bitter two-decade rivalry between Vancouver Whitecaps FC (11W-10L-8D) and Montreal Impact (13W-9L-6D) is alive and well.

With the odds stacked against them, Whitecaps FC bolstered their playoff standing with a massive 3-0 road victory over the Impact in a spirited affair Saturday afternoon at Stade Saputo.

In a match that saw just about everything, including a penalty and no less than four crossbars, Kenny Miller’s seventh-minute tally carried Vancouver to their 11th win of the season – matching the club’s highest total in Major League Soccer.

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2013/09/whitecaps-3-0-victory-montreal

 

Return Home Doesn't Lift Whitecaps

Playing in front of a home crowd at BC Place for the first time in four weeks, Vancouver Whitecaps FC (11W-11L-8D) were unable to recover from an early deficit as they fell 1-0 to Real Salt Lake (15W-10L-6D).

Real Salt Lake snapped a two-match losing streak in MLS play as they head into their U.S. Open Cup final on Tuesday versus D.C. United.

Head coach Martin Rennie made two changes to last weekend's lineup in Montreal. Russell Teibert returned to the starting lineup for Kenny Miller - who sat with a right adductor strain - while Camilo came in for Matt Watson.

Going into Saturday's thriller, the "˜Caps had kept a clean sheet in their two previous matches, but Real Salt Lake had plans of their own. Against the run of play, Devon Sandoval finished off a great cross from Lovel Palmer in the ninth minute to give RSL a 1-0 advantage.

However, Sandoval's goal didn't seem to phase the "˜Caps as they continued to apply pressure to their Western Conference foes.

On 11 minutes, Vancouver had a chance to respond through a Camilo Sanvezzo free kick from 20 yards out, but the striker's attempt curled just wide.

Four minutes after RSL's goal, the Blue and White almost leveled things up courtesy of a flash of individual brilliance from Camilo, who made his return to the starting eleven after scoring two brilliant goals as a substitute last week versus Montreal Impact. The striker carried the ball all the way from the halfway line to the edge of Real Salt Lake's penalty area then played a terrific through ball into the path of Nigel-Reo Coker, but Jeff Attinella was off his line quickly before the 'Caps midfield general was able to get a shot off.

An equalizer almost came for the home side on 36 minutes. Tommy Heinemann slipped in a clever pass along the ground to Russell Teibert in between two RSL defenders before the Canadian winger blasted a shot at goal, but Attinella was equal to the task, deflecting it out for a corner.

On the last play of the half, Heinemann was involved in another opportunity to equalize. The hulking American striker found his way to the end of a cross from Young-Pyo Lee before sending a header just high.

As action resumed for the second half, Martin Rennie did not hesitate to change the complexion of his attack force. On 55 minutes, the Scottish manager introduced speedsters Darren Mattocks and Kekuta Manneh to replace Gershon Koffie and Tommy Heinemann in hopes of giving the Blue and White a different dimension in their attack.

The substitutions almost paid off immediately as Manneh made a threatening run into RSL's box resulting in a pair of shots from Mattocks and Teibert, but both shots were blocked by RSL defenders who put their bodies on the line to preserve the slender lead.

On 69 minutes, Teibert appeared to be in on goal all alone after a nifty first touch but a crunching tackle from Chris Schuler halted the Canadian international's run - the referee elected to play on.

Manneh almost brought the crowd to their feet with three minutes to go until full-time. A one-two played by the Gambian with Camilo set-up the 18-year-old with a shot from just outside the box that went agonizing wide.

In the first minute of added time, the Blue and White caught a break as Joao Plata's line drive struck the outside of David Ousted's post and went out of play.

The best chance for the home side came in the five minutes of added came when midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker won his team a corner as his attempted cross was deflected. With the sell-out crowd on their feet and everyone in a 'Caps kit, including goalkeeper David Ousted, up for the corner, the "˜Caps searched for a grand finish. In the end, a clearance from Real Salt Lake's defence averted the danger and sealed the three points for the visitors.

The push to the playoffs will continue in the second leg of the club's two game home stand next Sunday in a pivotal Cascadia Cup clash versus Portland Timbers, kickoff is set for 5:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are still available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

Budweiser Man of the Match: David Ousted

 

One for the ages
Camilo thrills in highly entertaining match at BC Place



VANCOUVER, BC – A sensational second-half brace from Camilo salvaged an important point for Vancouver Whitecaps FC (11W-11L-9D) in a thrilling 2-2 draw with Portland Timbers (12W-5L-13D) Sunday at BC Place.

The Brazilian striker scored his 17th and 18th goals of the season within the span of three minutes late in the second half to help keep Whitecaps FC in contention for the final Western Conference playoff berth.

Camilo’s second tally was a brilliant scissor-kick volley that will no doubt be considered for MLS Goal of the Year. The goal leveled the game at 2-2 after Canadian Will Johnson put Portland ahead just a minute earlier.

With the crowd at their feet, the ‘Caps had at least three chances in stoppage time but Timbers goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts made a pair of game-saving stops as the Cascadia rivals played to their third straight draw this season

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2013/10/vwfc-draw-2-2-against-timbers

 

Kid Dynamite: Teenager Manneh keeps 'Caps alive


https://golazo.mlssoccer.com/matchc...e-sounders-fc-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc/recap

 

Heartbreak

Heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Colorado Rapids ends Vancouver Whitecaps FC's playoff hopes


COMMERCE CITY, CO – Vancouver Whitecaps FC (12W-12L-9D) saw their playoff hopes come to a heartbreaking end in a 3-2 loss to Colorado Rapids (14W-10L-9D) Saturday afternoon at thingy’s Sporting Goods Park.

Rookie Kekuta Manneh notched his fourth goal in the last two games and Camilo scored his 19th goal of the season but it wasn’t enough to get Vancouver the single point they needed to stay alive in the Western Conference playoff race.

A brace from Panamanian Designated Player Gabriel Torres, coupled with rookie Deshorn Brown’s team-leading 10th goal of the season, helped Colorado extend their home unbeaten streak to nine matches.

It was a thrilling match that saw two penalties and two world-class strikes – one from each team – but unfortunately for the Blue and White, it ended in heartbreak. Whitecaps FC now trail Colorado by six points going into next weekend's rematch at BC Place. Despite setting new club records in points and wins this season, the 'Caps are therefore eliminated from playoff contention

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2013/10/heartbreaking-3-2-loss-colorado

 

Goals from Manneh, Camilo not enough for 'Caps in Colorado

Vancouver Whitecaps FC (12W-12L-9D) saw their playoff hopes come to a heartbreaking end in a 3-2 loss to Colorado Rapids (14W-10L-9D) Saturday afternoon at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

Post-match interviews with head coach Martin Rennie, captain Jay DeMerit, and David Ousted:

Rookie Kekuta Manneh notched his fourth goal in the last two games and Camilo scored his 19th goal of the season but it wasn't enough to get Vancouver the single point they needed to stay alive in the Western Conference playoff race.

A brace from Panamanian Designated Player Gabriel Torres, coupled with rookie Deshorn Brown's team-leading 10th goal of the season, helped Colorado extend their home unbeaten streak to nine matches.

It was a thrilling match that saw two penalties and two world-class strikes - one from each team - but unfortunately for the Blue and White, it ended in heartbreak. Whitecaps FC now trail Colorado by six points going into next weekend's rematch at BC Place. Despite setting new club records in points and wins this season, the 'Caps are therefore eliminated from playoff contention.

Martin Rennie's starting lineup remained unchanged after a dominant 4-1 win over rival Seattle Sounders FC October 9 at CenturyLink Field.

Manneh made his first back-to-back start in MLS after scoring a hat-trick in Vancouver's last outing. Last week, the Gambian opened the scoring just 12 minutes into the match and he was involved again early.

In the 14th minute, Manneh broke through after a nifty one-two with Camilo, but the rookie's right-footed effort trickled just wide of the far post. It was another dangerous build-up play from the "˜Caps, who continue to cause trouble for opposing defences down the right flank.

Colorado also had a pair of half-chances early, including a free kick from Vicente Sanchez in the 12th minute, but neither proved to be much trouble for goalkeeper David Ousted.

The most dangerous Rapids player in the opening 45 minutes was no doubt Brown, who came close to opening the scoring on separate occasions. First, a deflected cross landed at his feet in the 22nd minute, but Brown ripped it first-time well over the bar.

Just two minutes later, Sanchez sent the rookie in all alone with a perfectly-weighted through ball from midfield, but Ousted did well to close the angle and Brown poked the ball just wide of the right post.

Many consider Brown to be one of the leading candidates for MLS Rookie of the Year, but it was Vancouver's rookie who put his stamp on the match first.

After a receiving a pass a few yards outside the Rapids box, Manneh took a touch and silenced the home crowd with a clinical finish in the 32nd minute. The rookie didn't have much space, but he made no mistake and curled a right-footed strike into the top right corner of the goal to give the "˜Caps a 1-0 lead.

Midfielder Daigo Kobayashi, who made the pass to Manneh, has now registered an assist on three of Manneh's four goals over the last two matches.

Vancouver's lead didn't last long, as the "˜Rapids got on the board in the 41st minute. The Rapids were awarded a penalty after the referee deemed that Carlyle Mitchell had an arm wrapped around defender Drew Moor, who went to ground in the box with a Sanchez free kick approaching.

Torres stepped up to the spot and equalized with a side-footed effort that flew just beyond the outstretched arms of Ousted, as the Western Conference foes went into the break all square.

It was clear that neither side was satisfied with a single point, however, as things opened up dramatically in the opening stages of the second half.

Manneh had the first real opportunity in the 50th minute. The ball fell to the 18-year-old at the top of the box after a Whitecaps FC corner was cleared away, but the Gambian's volley was blocked and his rebound sailed over the goal.

On the ensuing goal kick, Rapids goalkeeper Clint Irwin found Brown down field with an accurate goal kick that eluded both Mitchell and Young-Pyo Lee. Ousted was quick off his line but there was not much the Dane could do, as Brown flicked a side-footed effort into the back of the net to give Colorado their first lead of the game.

With their season hanging in the balance, the "˜Caps manufactured an inspired response to Colorado's go-ahead marker.

In the 53rd minute, a curling left-footed cross from Jordan Harvey just eluded a sliding Camilo in the middle of the box. A few minutes later, Matt Watson broke in after a clever Camilo dummy, but the Englishman toe-poked it just inches wide of the left post.

Finally, the "˜Caps caught a break in the 75th minute, when defender Shane O'Neill hauled down Harvey in the Rapids box. To no one's surprise, the "˜Caps were awarded a penalty on the play and Camilo converted with ease to level the game at 2-2.

In an unexpected turn of events, Colorado re-gained the lead just two minutes later and their previous two goalscorers were both in the middle of the action. Brown started the play with a switch from the left side and Torres finished it with a brilliant strike that hit the inside of the crossbar before bouncing into the goal.

The "˜Caps sent everyone forward in the dying stages of the match, including substitutes Darren Mattocks and Kenny Miller, but in the end Torres' marker proved to be the difference in a spirited afternoon affair at Dick's Sporting Goods Park.

"It's very disappointing, but we still may have an impact on who gets into the playoffs," Rennie told reporters after the match. "Next week's a huge game for us. We owe our fans a really big performance. They've been incredible for us all season long and we'll be really fired up and going at it all guns blazing."

Whitecaps FC wrap up their 2013 MLS regular season on Sunday, October 27 when they host the Rapids in the back half of their home-and-home series.

The regular season finale will also be Whitecaps FC's Fan Appreciation Night. A number of activations are planned to thank fans for their continued support.

Tickets are still available at whitecapsfc.com/tickets.

 

Re: Goals from Manneh, Camilo not enough for 'Caps in Colorado

Ending on a high
Brazilian wins MLS Golden Boot with historic performance



VANCOUVER, BC – Camilo Sanvezzo will win the Major League Soccer Golden Boot as the league’s leading goalscorer after notching a hat-trick in Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s season finale Sunday evening at BC Place.

Whitecaps FC’s BMO Player of the Year brought his season tally to a league-high 22 goals and Young-Pyo Lee played his final professional match as the ‘Caps capped off their 2013 MLS campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over the playoff-bound Colorado Rapids (14W-11L-9D).

http://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/2013/10/camilo-hat-trick-whitecaps-fc-3-0-rapids