Whitecaps aim to advance in CONCACAF play with a win over Seattle
Posted September 23, 2015 12:51 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
SEATTLE (NEWS 1130) – The Whitecaps CONCACAF Champions League bid continues tonight in Seattle against the Sounders. Seattle and Vancouver can advance to the next round with a victory. If the two sides play to a draw, Seattle would be eliminated while the Caps would need a point in their final group stage match against CD Olimpia.
The Whitecaps need a bounce back game after being demolished 3-0 at home by the Sounders on the weekend. Defender Tim Parker says revenge is on his mind.
“We didn’t play particularly bad, but we didn’t take advantage of our opportunities and they took advantage of theirs. I think that happens from time to time, but we are definitely ready to exact some revenge.”
Vancouver has yet to lose in the tournament, playing to a draw against Seattle at home this summer, while defeating CD Olimpia 1-0 last week.
Parker is expecting some fireworks tonight between the Cascadia rivals.
“These games are big, especially against a cross town rival like Seattle. I personally want to make a mark on the game. I don’t want to go outside my boundaries, but I want to make an impact and have a strong presence.”
With a chance to advance, Head Coach Carl Robinson is expected to field a lineup with more veterans including Robert Earnshaw. Earnshaw says he will bring a leadership role to the game.
“As a team we have to be able to handle what is in front of us. If you have gone through it, great, you can help some of the other guys. If you haven’t then everything is fresh and if your teammates need you, you are there.”
It is the fifth meeting of the year between the two teams, with Seattle having a slight edge with a 2-1-1 record.
Kick off is at 7 p.m. and you can watch the game on Sportsnet One or Sportsnet World.
The Caps will then wrap up the group stage on October 22nd in Honduras against CD Olimpia.
