Another clean sheet for the 'Caps none the less. It was quite interesting to see the number of quality chances on goal and plays that just looked like they might turn into something. Though the score line was much the same as it has appeared for many of the home fixtures this year, yesterdays match was definitely the most exciting. There was a buzz of excitement in the air well before the match even started. Originally scheduled for 7:30 the kickoff was delayed until 7:50pm for the television broadcast. Ricardo Sanchez had a strong game in the middle replacing an injured Martin Nash. He had several quality crosses off of set pieces. Takashi Hirano was subbed into the game in the second half and looked like he is getting much closer to being match fit after missing most of the early part of the season. To be completely honest he looked like he wasn't quite used to the pace of the game after watching from the side lines for so long. That will come with a little more game action.
Justin Moose played a strong game as did the usual suspects on the back end. Jay Nolly didn't have to make any trademark brilliant saves but did enough to keep the ball from crossing his line so there really isn't much more you can ask of the guy. Zurab Tsiskaridze (Big Z to anyone with a twitter account) had yet another strong showing. He was strong with his challenges on the ball, made several runs up the left side of the pitch to keep the pressure on the Montreal defence, and played several gorgeous free kicks into the Montreal box in the 2nd half. Whoever it was that got him to come over from Miami deserves a raise.
With the draw Vancouver remain atop of the standings in the NASL division with 9 points (2-1-3). The Whitecaps have two very difficult games coming up as they face Toronto FC on Wednesday in a game that may decide the Nutrilite Canadian Championship, and then Saturday they face a strong Rochester Rhinos side.
A loss to TFC secures the Reds a second straight Voyageurs Cup, and would create a nightmare situation for the tournament with 2 nationally televised games remaining with no consequences on the outcome.
With Rochester coming to town the 'Caps will be facing a team that has had no problem finding the back of the net this season with 9 goals for. It should be a good test for the boys in blue as Rochester are one of the teams to beat this year in The Deuce, and Vancouver has not been able score against teams with losing records.
On a lighter note, while Rochester is in town look out for #3 on their defence (Mayor) Adam West.
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