Whitecaps vs Chivas USA Matchup Insight
The Whitecaps are set for the second session of a four game road trip that requires the team to win at least two of those games to stay close to the top two teams in the Western Conference (San Jose Earthquakes and Real Salt Lake).
7:30 PM pt Record
VANWH 8-4-5 (3-3-2 V)
CHIVAS 5-7-4(2-6-1 H)
Matchup
Vancouver set an excellent precedent with their 1-0 steal of a win over Colorado mid-week.
Chivas USA
Chivas are the second team of the LA area, behind the star powered Galaxy. As such they are frequently overshadowed and have struggled to attract much talent.
In fact, Chivas has finished 8th two years in a row in the Western Conference, and they currently sit 7th this term.
The team, interestingly nicknamed The Goats, has had a respectable defensive record, allowing a reasonable 18 goals in 16 matches. However, their scoring account has been nothing short of woeful, with a measly 11 goals for this regular season.
Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Chivas USA Preview – (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images)
Chivas has tried to supplement their roster with some new faces lately, most notably Danny Califf, to bolster the back end. But this team is ripe for the picking.
Vancouver Whitecaps
Darren Mattocks has been a shining star these past few weeks, but will unfortunately be out tonight due to too many yellow cards and is thus suspended.
So, expect Eric Hassli to return to the starting lineup. Jun Marques Davidson on the other hand, will be eligible to return following a similar sentence.
Davidson has settled well into the defensive midfield role and may allow Barry Robson to take on a more prominent creative role following his encouraging moments against the Rapids.
The other key for this match-up will be for the defence to maintain the solid form they returned to Wednesday in Denver.
Quotes
“This game will bring different challenges. We’ll have to play at our best. Defend well, and take our chances when they come vs. Chivas.” – Martin Rennie
Predictions
Vancouver has the opportunity to bury a weak divisional rival and it would be good to see them develop a killer instinct to further establish their post-season credentials, while also sending a message to the other top teams.
Look for Vancouver to tame The Goats 2-1.
Video
Whitecaps FC bench boss Martin Rennie talks about upcoming match vs. Chivas
