Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23 (3W-4L-2D) host fourth place Washington Crossfire (5W-1L-2D) on Friday in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League (PDL). Kickoff time at Simon Fraser University Field #4 is set for 7:30 p.m. PT.
After earning their first away victory, the fifth place 'Caps return home to face a Washington side in inspired form. Currently tied for second place with 16 points, the Crossfire are looking to break away from second spot and put pressure on Sounders FC U-23, who sit at first place with 18 points.
Vancouver will need to improve on their all-time record of 1W-5L-0D against Washington. In their last meeting in the PDL, the ‘Caps won their first match in the series with a 3-0 result at Redmond High School on July 24.
WHITECAPS FC U-23
After a very satisfying first away win of the PDL season at Victoria Highlanders FC, Whitecaps FC will be confident that they can continue their fine form through the remainder of the season. The 'Caps boast nine different goal scorers this season, and will be a tough test for the Crossfire defence.
Ben Fisk continues to put in fine attacking displays, having played a part in all nine matches thus far with four goals and one assist. Coulton Jackson has been another strong performer over his last two matches since his return to the club, grabbing two goals and one assist.
CROSSFIRE
The Crossfire have had a strong showing in their PDL campaign under new head coach Adam Nowland, losing only once against defending PDL champs Kitsap Pumas. Adam Bonifacio leads his team in points from midfield with a tally of four goals and 19 shots. Andrew Holte has been equally prolific for his side in between the posts with three shutouts in his seven appearances for the Crossfire. Washington are looking for their first win away from home this season.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Whitecaps FC U-23 next meet Fraser Valley Mariners FC at Bateman Park in their re-scheduled match that was originally set for Wednesday, June 20. A winning result will put Whitecaps FC in first place and three points ahead of Victoria in the supporters-driven Juan De Fuca Plate derby. Kickoff time for the match is set for 6:30 p.m. PT.
