Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Colorado Rapids – Game Recap
A lot more was expected from last night’s meeting between the Whitecaps and Rapids. Hosts Vancouver Whitecaps came to this match from the very top of the MLS Western Conference, and top contenders in the Supporter’s-Shield competition.
Visitors Colorado Rapids are struggling for a fading chance to gain a playoff spot for this Major League Soccer post season. A hope that is further out of reach after last night’s loss.
Still, Vancouver are coming off the back of a 2-0 loss at Huston Dynamo. This, as opposed to Colorado’s last 2-1 win at home against Sporting Kansas City, which marked the Rapid’s third win in a row.
Adding the interesting statistics: this is the third time these teams will meet this season, with Colorado winning the previous two matches. Add to that the Rapid’s struggles at the bottom of Major League Soccer’s Western Conference, and the Whitecaps urge to secure their top position coming on the back of a loss – and you would expect to get an exciting display of soccer from both sides.
Sadly, it was not the case, and we ended up with a pretty uneventful match with both sides failing to apply pressure and create opportunities for most of the evening. Thankfully, Vancouver’s midfielder Cristian Techera did manage to inject some action late in the game.
Techera produced an accurate cross from the right, straight into the center of Colorado’s box, finding Octavio Rivero who headed into the Rapids’ net (73’).
Vancouver Whitecaps 1 – 0 Colorado Rapids
Minutes later, Techera himself took a rebound inside Colorado’s box, and deflecting the Rapids’ defense released a strong shot to secure the hosts’ victory for the night.
Vancouver Whitecaps 2– 0 Colorado Rapids
Vancouver Whitecaps are now on top of the MLS Western Conference table, with 48 points, leading LA Galaxy by 2. Colorado Rapids are ninth in the West, with 33 points.
Vancouver will return to action in September 19th, hosting Seattle Sounders, and Colorado are hosting D.C. United this Saturday.
