Whitecaps / Chivas Game Summary
The Vancouver Whitecaps travelled to the Home Depot Center, shared with the LA Galaxy, to take on Chivas USA and, despite a slight territorial advantage, could only manage a 0-0 tie.
Vancouver was much the better team in the first half, but regressed in the second, when the Goats came on more directly.
The Whitecaps could only force the Chivas goalkeeper Dan Kennedy to make a solitary save, while Joe Cannon made three stops.
It has become clearly apparent that the insertion of Barry Robson into the Whitecaps formation will take some time to re-develop chemistry among the team.
There were a number of missed passes and confused looks when players turned the wrong direction while expecting the ball, only to misconnect.
Fortunately, Vancouver has been able to grind out results with a win and this tie with Robson, despite the growing pains.
Rochat settles into new role
For the second match in a row, Alain Rochat played as an extra defensive midfielder in front of the defence, moving from his usual left back position.
Whitecaps / Chivas Game Summary. The game ended in a scoreless tie. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
The Swiss is a keen defensive presence, but also has the ability to pass well, and his play has helped boost the support on the back end of the pitch.
DeMerit stands out
Jay DeMerit led the back line strongly as usual. In an impressive acknowledgement, the American centre back has also been named as one of the MLS First XI. (More on this coming later today on NWSB’s Whitecaps Blog.
He will play along such league luminaries as David Beckham, Landon Donovan and Thierry Henry in the All Star contest.
Man of the Match
Joe Cannon (yet again this season) was the best Whitecap on the pitch with three good saves.
Play of the Match
The Cannon leaping save off the Cardozo free kick was the pick of the bunch.
Match Quote
“It was actually quite an exciting game. Second half didn’t play quite as well, some decent chances, didn’t pull the trigger. It’s a good point on the road. Lots of positives. We can move on, and get ready for the next game. ” – Coach Martin Rennie
Summary
Goals
Match Stats
Shots: Vancouver 3 On Target 1, Colorado 17, On Target 6
Fouls: Vancouver 14 – Colorado 14
Cards
CHIVAS – Nick LaBrocca (Yellow Card) 45th minute
VANWH – Alain Rochat (Yellow Card) 63rd minute
VANWH – Eric Hassli (Yellow Card) 64th minute
VANWH – Martin Bonjour (Yellow Card) 71st minute
VANWH – Gershon Koffie (Yellow Card) 87th minute
CHIVAS – Danny Califf (Yellow Card) 90th minute
Video Courtesy Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Youtube
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