Bob Mackin
THE BUZZ
The Vancouver Whitecaps hope to drain the United Soccer Leagues' First Division-leading Charleston Battery when the South Carolina squad visits Swangard Stadium tonight (7 p.m. Team 1040/team1040.ca/Shaw TV).
MORE GOALS NEEDED
The 7-4-3 Whitecaps came home with a 6-0 win from a Saturday friendly against local all-stars in Prince George and need to find the back of the net more often in league play. The Whitecaps are 0-2-2 in USL play since a 3-1 June 7 win over the Portland Timbers. The Whitecaps are worst in goals scored (13) and best in goals allowed (12).
THE AMAZING RANDI
The Whitecaps will be watching out for Randi Patterson, Charleston's leading scorer. The former New York Red Bull has seven markers. The Whitecaps have relied on Eduardo Sebrango for five goals. Nick Addlery and Jason Jordan each have a pair.
ROAD WARRIORS
Do the Battery have enough juice to stay atop the table? The 9-4-3 club is scheduled to play 11 of its last 14 matches on the road.
WELCOME HOME
Mark Watson is Charleston coach Mike "No Busch" Anhaeuser's assistant. The ex-West Vancouverite is a former Whitecap and ex-captain of Canada's national team.
RETURN ENGAGEMENT
The Whitecaps visit Charleston on Aug. 3.
