CHESTER, PA - Vancouver Whitecaps FC are back in MLS action today when they visit arguably the most improved team in MLS in Philadelphia Union.
Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. PT and will be aired live on TSN2.
KICKOFF: 4 p.m. PT | TV: TSN2 | RADIO: TSN 1410
Here are three storylines for the fixture at Talen Energy Stadium.
VERY FEW CRACKS ON THE UNION DEFENCE
After finishing ninth in the 10-team conference last season, the Union have turned things around, using a similar formula that helped the ‘Caps make the jump to the league’s upper echelon in 2015.
Like the 2015 ‘Caps, the Union boast a strong defence, conceding only 16 goals through the first 14 matches of the season for a 1.14 GAA. In contrast, they allowed 1.62 goals per match in the previous season. However, they have shown chinks in the armour lately, allowing three goals in each of the last two outings.
Saturday will feature a matchup between two of the steadier goalkeepers in MLS this year, with David Ousted (league-leading 60 saves) and Andre Blake manning their respective nets. Each has three clean sheets in the season.
THE CAPTAIN IS BACK
Back in the ‘Caps lineup after serving his suspension is captain Pedro Morales. His return should give the Vancouver attack a boost, as he leads the 'Caps with six goals and three assists.
Still unavailable for Vancouver is Kendall Waston. Carl Robinson's options in centre back are Tim Parker and Cole Seiler, both of whom played their college soccer in the region, and the experienced Pa-Modou Kah and Andrew Jacobson.
IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA
Things won't come easy for Vancouver today as they face a Union team that has lost only once in their last 10 outings. Philadelphia are especially tough to solve at home, where they are undefeated with six wins and two draws this year.
The 'Caps are expected to be led by the tenacious MatÃas Laba, Nicolás Mezquida, and Cristian Techera, who should have fresh legs after sitting out the Tuesday match in Toronto.
If Whitecaps FC are to come out of the City of Brotherly Love with a point, or more, they will have to fight to earn it.
Make sure you don't miss it. Tune in to TSN2 at 4 p.m.
After this weekend, the focus shifts back to the Amway Canadian Championship when the 'Caps host the second and decisive leg versus Toronto FC. Get your tickets here and be there as history is made in BC Place.
Be a part of the best sporting atmosphere in Vancouver! Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including Half-Season Packs, 5-Packs, a Youth Soccer Half-Season Ticket, and single match tickets. For more information, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
