It Will Get Better Whitecaps Fans!
To understand what Vancouver Whitecaps FC can do to build on next season, we may have to look beyond anything we can read.
The truth is that anything on paper reveals a predictably disastrous season for the expansion Whitecaps. They currently sit last overall at-4-14-10 through 28 games and have the league’s second-worst goal differential at minus-18.
They fired head coach Teitur Thordardson in May.
They haven’t won a road game.
They’ve been shut out 10 times.
They haven’t won consecutive games.
They went winless for a 14-game stretch from March 26 to June 18.
The results have clearly not been pretty.
However, if you’ve watched Vancouver Whitecaps FC actually play, you’ll understand the silver lining. This team is developing a reputation as perhaps the best last-place team in MLS history, as odd as that may sound.
Arguably the best last-place team in MLS history
This is a plucky, exciting group; nine of its 14 defeats were by one goal. In David Chiumiento, Eric Hassli and Camilo, the Whitecaps have three of the league’s best offensive players, believe it or not. Hassli and Camilo have combined for 18 goals and Chiumentio has emerged as a solid playmaker from midfield.
So how can the Whitecaps improve their ugly results from season one?
The key is probably defense. This team has allowed the second-most goals in the MLS thus far in 2011 with 46 in 28 games. Vancouver also has the fewest goals scored but that’s largely because its best scorers don’t have the ball enough. The “D” can’t push it up to them.
There are worse identities for expansion teams to have. No one views the Whitecaps as plucky overachievers.
Instead, they’re considered a raw but talented offensive team with potential for growth next season.
Now come on, Whitecaps, let’s see some shutdown defense as you play out the string.
Give us hope for next season!
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