Whitecaps open MLS Cup Playoffs in Portland
Posted November 1, 2015 10:25 am.
Last Updated November 1, 2015 10:29 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
PORTLAND,ORE. (NEWS 1130) – The Vancouver Whitecaps open up the MLS Cup Playoffs on the road in Portland, as the first leg of the Western Conference semi-final kicks off between the ‘Caps and the Timbers. (2pm)
The playoff format is simple: The team with the most goals on aggregate through the two games (2nd match up on November 8th at BC Place) advances. If the two teams are tied on aggregate – the higher goal count on the road will decide the series winner.
One of the bigger factors to consider with Vancouver: Comfort away from home. The Whitecaps finished with a record of 7-7-3 on the road this season. That’s the best road record in the league.
“We’ll have our game plan. We’ll be ready to go.” Whitecaps head coach Carl Robinson said earlier in the week when asked about the hostile crowd in Portland.
“We’ll go there full of confidence. They’re (Portland) a good team. No doubt about it. The top four seeds in the West are through to the conference semi-finals. I’m a big believer in ‘The league doesn’t lie.’ – The four best teams are in it, and now it’s playoff time.” Robinson added.
The Timbers might be battling a bit of fatigue, having played Thursday night in an epic battle with Sporting KC to advance. The Timbers were victorious after an 11 round penalty kick shootout. The Timbers are the third seed, and have won four straight going into Sunday’s match.
Vancouver played to a pair of draws on the road in Portland this year, while winning the one matchup at BC Place.
Whitecaps centre back Pa-Modou Kah will not be available today due to injury.
