Eric Hassli is loving life with FC Dallas

VANCOUVER, B.C. – Eric Hassli is playing on his third team in the last calendar year. The former Vancouver fan favourite found himself getting ready to play for Toronto FC this season until he was traded to FC Dallas on February, 4th. Hassli has had a slow start to the 2013 MLS season, and has started only twice for FC Dallas. He has 1 assist, and despite not earning consistent playing time the tall Frenchman is happy he has found a home with FC Dallas.

Hassli was available for an interview, and he touched on a variety of topics, and spoke fondly of his time in Vancouver.

What’s has it been like for you being back in Vancouver the last few days?

Eric Hassli: Nice, I saw a lot of old friends, and it feels really good.

Why do you think it did not work out for you in Vancouver?

Eric Hassli: I have no idea.

Was it a coaching related?

Eric Hassli: They traded me, so I didn’t ask anything. You have to ask them.

Were you surprised that Toronto FC moved you to FC Dallas?

Eric Hassli: Yea it was a total surprise. It’s not that I didn’t like Toronto because I’m pleased with the time I had over there, but it had to be closed, and just move on.

Was Toronto FC not a good fit for you at that point in your career?

Eric Hassli: Yea I think so…. but I had a great time.

How is life in Dallas?

Eric Hassli: Awesome. My wife is pretty happy so that’s the most important thing in my life.

What do you like about your new team?

Eric Hassli: Marcus (Owens) the equipment guy, he’s awesome. I like the team, we have a lot of fun at practice, and we work really hard, and we have great chemistry.

What sort of things have you learned from your Coach Schellas Hyndman?

Eric Hassli: Everybody is as important as him if you play or not, and that’s the most important thing I think. Everybody is important even if you don’t play. At some point you’re going to need everybody until the end of the season so we work with everybody in the same direction.

What have you been told you need to work on to get consistent playing time this season?

Eric Hassli: I work pretty hard, and now I’m just waiting for my chance.  He (Schellas Hyndman) has no reason to change the lineup. The team is doing great.

Fitness wise, are you healthy?

Eric Hassli: Yes I’m good.

Do you keep in touch with any Vancouver Whitecaps?

Eric Hassli: Yea Alain (Rochat), and Ed Georgica the equipment manager.

You really love the equipment managers eh…

Eric Hassli: Yes, they’re crazy but I love them.

What about your buddy Davide Chiumiento who is playing in the Swiss League with FC Zürich?

Eric Hassli: Davide for sure. Not everyday, but almost everyday.

What are some of your favourite moments in a Vancouver Whitecaps jersey? 

Eric Hassli: I have a year and a half of great memories. The first game was awesome in MLS. The game against San Jose, Seattle, I don’t know I have so many great moments.

What do you hope happens with your career in MLS, would you like to go back to France?

Eric Hassli: No No No I want to continue yes of course as long as I can, and then we will see. I’m just focused on playing that’s it.

Do you have a message for your fans whether that be in Vancouver, Dallas or anywhere else?

Eric Hassli: Since I’ve been in Vancouver, and before I came I got a lot of messages from them, and had much love when I landed here. Vancouver always has a special place in my heart. It’s great to be here hanging out with old friends.

Thank You very much Eric, best of luck this year.

Eric Hassli: Thank You

The Vancouver Whitecaps collapse late, and draw the Portland Timbers 2-2

VANCOUVER, B.C – Unbeaten in their last 9 matches the Portland Timbers went north, and squared off against their Canadian Cascadian rivals the Vancouver Whitecaps.

The Whitecaps twice took leads through Camilo Sanvezzo, and Gershon Koffie, but it wasn’t enough as Portland equalized each time in the second half through a Will Johnson penalty and Jose Valencia to draw 2-2 in front of 19,823 fans at BC Place.

The latter goal was Valencia’s first in MLS an came after his colleague Mamadou Danso had been sent off and will be especially painful for the home side who looked to have been secure for their first Cascadia Cup win in MLS after the red card.

Danso was given the harsh red card in the 81st minute after tripping up Camilo Sanvezzo. Danso was the last Portland defender back and it looked a goal scoring opportunity but he barely touched Camilo who went down with ease then and for most of the afternoon.

There is some credit due to the 10-man Timbers who could have folded but they came back with vengeance, and scored the point saver when most people would have counted them out.

Jose Valencia raced up the field, and completely turned Brad Rusin and Andy O’Brien inside out before slotting the ball past Brad Knighton for his first goal of the season.

Before the late drama, Andy O’Brien was earlier whistled for a handball in the Whitecaps box that resulted in a penalty for Will Johnson. Camilo had opened the scoring with a devastating free kick awarded again after he had taken a soft tumble.

Timbers captain Will Johnson returning to his native Canada said:

“These western conference games with so much on the line every game matters just so much when you’re battling for playoff position, so I’ll take a road result anywhere.

Obviously coming up to Vancouver it’s always nice to get a result up here. They don’t seem to like me very much up here so it feels good.”

The Toronto, Ontario native, was the best player on either side and had high praise for the Whitecaps goals.

“Looking back you have to give them credit. Two really good goals they just bent into the top corner around Futty (Mamadou Danso), and myself. Obviously it wasn’t good but at the end of the day we’ve got to give them a little credit. That’s not a garbage goal, that’s a pretty good goal.”

Vancouver, who had yet to lose a MLS match at home this season showed little sign of fatigue for a team that had a midweek cup game in Montreal on Wednesday. However Brad Knighton, and Jordan Harvey both started their first MLS games of the season.

Portland should have opened the scoring in the 14′ when Diego Valeri took a shot on goal from a sharp angle. Brad Knighton wasn’t able to snag the ball, and with a chaotic scramble in front of him Rodney Wallace was unable to poke the ball home as it sat on the goal line. Jordan Harvey, and Brad Rusin did just enough to clear the ball out for Timbers corner.

The Whitecaps who have started slowly in their  most recent MLS matches at BC Place opened the scoring in the 24′ on a suspect yellow card Will Johnson picked up for clipping Camilo Sanvezzo.

The usually steady, and reliable Michael Harrington gave the ball away, and Johnson was forced to commit a questionable foul just outside the Timbers box.

Camilo stepped up and smashed the ball over the Portland wall, and past a shocked looking Donovan Ricketts. There was absolutely nothing Ricketts could do as Camilo placed the ball into the top left corner.

The 6’5 keeper was in a surprisingly good mood after the match, and had this to say.

“It wasn’t our best game but we fought, and came away with a point so it’s always good to get a point on the road. They were well taken goals, terrific free kick, and Koffie had a touch, and set shoot. We didn’t play our best soccer, and we didn’t lose.”

Portland was carrying the play before the opening goal, and the momentum that they had quickly shifted over to Vancouver. Diego Valeri was given a yellow card for a clip on Y.P. Lee, and to make matters worse forward Darlington Nagbe had to exit the game in the 34′ with an ankle injury.

All the confidence and possession Portland had generated in the first 20 minutes of the first half was completely thrown out the window with those sequence of events in the first half. Vancouver was happy to time waste, and sit back for the rest of the half.

The Timbers caught a lucky break early in the second half when the ball struck the outstretched arm of Whitecaps defender Andy O’Brien. Referee Matthew Foerster correctly pointed to the spot, and Will Johnson scored on a lovely place penalty kick past Brad Knighton who dove to his right instead of his left.

The deadlock did not last long.

The Whitecaps quickly pounced back on the counter attack for a go ahead goal in the 54′. Camilo did a fantastic job of backing into the Timbers box before passing the ball to an oncoming Gershon Koffie. The Ghanaian native curled a lovely shot past the outstretched Donovan Ricketts for his second goal of the season.

The Timbers were pressing for the equalizing goal from that moment forward, and they looked to have taken a crucial blow in the 81′ minute when Timbers defender Mamadou Futty Danso was sent off for a dubious red card. With Camilo Sanvezzo trying to get past Danso, he cynically went down under minimal pressure from the defender.

Martin Rennie was one of many who with admirable honesty didn’t believe a red card should have been shown.

“I thought their red card was a bit harsh. That moment was a big turning point and we should have seen the game out.”

Despite facing a daunting task Portland were undeterred, and fought to earn a 2-2 draw.

Caleb Porter brought on Jose Valencia in the 77′ for Jake Jewsbury in an effort to getting the tying goal. The 21 year-old Colombian International dazzled Brad Rusin, and Andy O’Brien before finding the net for his first career MLS goal.

The Whitecaps were visibly disappointed with a 2-2 draw, and none more that centre back Brad Rusin who looked horrible on the game trying goal. Rusin was squarely placing all the blame on himself post match.

“I take full responsibility of the second goal, it feels like a loss today but we get out of here with a tie.”

Vancouver Whitecaps: Brad Knighton; Y. P. Lee, Andy O’Brien, Brad Rusin, Jordan Harvey; Nigel Reo-Coker (C), Jun Marques Davidson (88 – Darren Mattocks), Gershon Koffie (71 – Matt Watson); Russell Teibert, Camilo Sanvezzo, Erik Hurtado (83 – Alain Rochat).

Substitutions: Joe Cannon, Alain Rochat, Matt Watson, Darren Mattocks, Caryle Mitchell, Corey Hertzog, Tom Heinemann.

Portland Timbers: Donovan Ricketts, Jack Jewsbury (77 – Jose Valencia), Andrew Jean-Baptiste, Mamadou Danso, Michael Harrington, Diego Chara, Diego Valeri, Will Johnson (C), Darlington Nagbe (34 – Kalif Alhassan), Ryan Johnson (62 - Frederic Piquionne), Rodney Wallace.

Substitutions: Jake Gleeson, Pa Modou Kah, Ben Zemanski, Kalif Alhassan, Sal Zizzo, Frederic Piquionne, Jose Valencia.

Notes: Nigel Reo-Coker will miss the next Whitecaps MLS game on June 1, against the New York Red Bulls due to yellow card accumulation. It was confirmed that Darlington Nagbe tweaked his ankle. Portland will play DC United next Saturday May 25, while the Whitecaps don’t play until Wednesday May 29, vs Montreal in the 2nd leg of the Amway Canadian Championship.

The Vancouver Whitecaps escape Montreal with a scoreless 0-0 1st leg draw

VANCOUVER, B.C - Vancouver Whitecaps Match Ratings at Montreal Impact

GK – Brad Knighton:  7/10 Knighton had to stretch to make a difficult save on Marco Di Vaio in the 19′. The former Juventus striker cut across the field, and delivered a low bending curl towards the bottom left corner. The Whitecaps keeper did a terrific job getting to the ball to prevent an early goal. Moments later Patrice Bernier had a shot that went inches wide left. Knighton didn’t get a good read on the ball, and was late to react. Luckily for him the opportunity was slightly off target. In his pink goalkeepers kit Brad Knighton was not tested often, but he was sharp, and ready when he needed to be. Montreal sent in many crosses throughout the match, and the Whitecaps keeper was able to snag all of them before the Impact could convert. With Montreal pressing in the second half Knighton stood his ground, and played a perfect game. Knighton came up with a save in extra time as Justin Mapp fired a slow dribbler that was bobbled but saved.

LB – Jordan Harvey: 7.5/10 Harvey was a bit of a surprise starter for Vancouver with Alain Rochat also finding his way into the starting XI. Harvey was tasked with keeping former Whitecaps defender Jeb Brovsky in check, and he did a bang up job. The Montreal full back has had a wonderful start to the MLS season, and Harvey showed he was up to the challenge of man marking him. The UCLA alum had a few questionable tackles, and was lucky to not have been carded, but for the most part he was solid at Left Back. The Whitecaps got a great showing from Jordan Harvey, and he was a big reason why they held the powerful Impact to a scoreless 0-0 draw.

CB – Johnny Leveron: 7/10 You could tell that Johnny Leveron, and his fellow central defender Andy O’Brien are starting to get used to playing with each other. With a huge language barrier to overcome both players might be expected to have communication problems with one, and other. This was not the case against the Impact. Leveron, and O’Brien are forming a sold, formidable duo inside the back four, and it showed with the Whitecaps completely silencing the power house Montreal Impact. Marco Di Vaio had a few chances but Leveron was not caught out of position. He closed quickly on his opponents, and knocked the ball away when Montreal advanced.

CB – Andy O’Brien: 7/10 The Whitecaps stalwart defender picked up the first yellow card of the night for Vancouver in the 49′ after a slight shirt pull on Bernier…. but that was his only blemish on the night. Overall he was fantastic for the Whitecaps, and he continued to show why he has been the most consistent Caps defender in 2013. O’Brien had a brilliant shot block in the 74′ that may have saved a goal being scored for the home side. Marco Di Vaio had a lovely chance to strike the ball past Knighton, but the big Irish defender got in the way, and stopped the attempt on target. With the Whitecaps slowing down, and looking exhausted in the later stages of the second half Andy O’Brien stood firm, and played with great poise, and strength.

RB – Nigel Reo-Coker: 7.5/10 The Whitecaps Captain surprisingly started at Right Back against Montreal, and did not look out-of-place. Reo-Coker is the same type of player no matter what position he plays. The always talkative midfielder was able to settle the play, and calm things down in the first half when Vancouver looked out of sorts. Reo-Coker, who turned 29 on Tuesday was dribbling past opponents, and looked like he had been playing at Right Back for years. He was winning challenges, and he led by example with his strong play. He got into an argument with Hassoun Camara in the 25′ when the French defender came in with a two footed tackle. Clearly not happy Re0-Coker exchanged words with him, and Camara was issued a yellow card by referee Silviu Petrescu.

DM – Brad Rusin: 6.5/10 Rusin made his first start of the year in the holding midfield position as the Whitecaps looked to park the bus for 90′. Rusin looked to have injured his ankle in the 15′ when Collen Warner tackled him. Rusin got up favouring his ankle, but was able to stay in the game. He was also down again in the 86′ of play with what appeared to be an injured left leg. Marco Di Vaio helped him up, and he continued on. For a player who has received plenty of criticism this year, Brad Rusin played very well in a position he has never be asked to play with the Whitecaps. Montreal didn’t score, and Rusin was solid in front of the back four for Vancouver.

LM – Alain Rochat: 7/10 Alain Rochat thrived as a left midfielder, and really showed some of his offensive ability. The Quebec, native had two of the best chances to score for the Whitecaps in the first half when he had a brilliant blast on goal from well out on 32′. Montreal keeper, Evan Bush did well to clear the ball away. On the ensuing corner Rochat got his head on the ball, but he could not convert as the ball was cleared off the line by the Impact. In front of more than 20 family, and friends Rochat had one of his best games in recent memory.

CM – Gershon Koffie: 7/10 Koffie earned his minutes, and fought hard for all 90. With the Whitecaps wanting to eliminate any, and all scoring chances Gershon Koffie delivered defensively for Vancouver. He was able to head the ball away countless times, and was in great position for much of the evening. The creative two-way player was asked to play more of a defensive game, and he responded with a strong showing. Koffie has his head in the game, and he was determined, and focused on protecting the Whitecaps half of the pitch.

CM – Matt Watson: 6/10 Having not played since the 1st leg of the semifinals again FC Edmonton, Matt Watson looked shaky in the opening forty-five. His passes weren’t crisp, and looked rushed whenever he got the ball. In the opening minute he was the recipient of a cross inside the Montreal box that he was unable to fully connect on. To make matters worse, Watson was the victim of a harsh challenge from Marco Di Vaio in the 33′. The Italian earned himself a yellow card after a dangerous two footed tackle that sent Watson flying. In the second half Watson took a knock to the back of the head, and had to be helped off the field. For a player that doesn’t get many minutes, the England native was a target of the Montreal Impact. Watson is not a strong threat to score, but he does bring a sound defensive performance when asked upon, and that’s what he did in Montreal.

RM - Russell Teibert: 5/10 Coming off his most prolific game in a Whitecaps uniform, Teibert had a somewhat of a disappointing game in Montreal. With the Whitecaps focused primarily on defense, the Niagara Falls, Ontario, native didn’t have as many opportunities to showcase his talents. With his confidence growing after each match Teibert is a dangerous threat to score every time he steps onto the pitch. Against Montreal, Teibert had a cross that was sent to Matt Watson in the opening minute, and a shot attempt that went well wide to the right of Evan Bush in the 63′. This was not the greatest stage for Teibert to showcase his ability, and thus  he had a quiet game.

ST - Darren Mattocks: 4/10 As a lone striker up top with his team focused on shutting down the opposition Darren Mattocks didn’t do much of anything before Martin Rennie subbed him off in the 65.’ Mattocks looked tired, and uninterested. He wasn’t able to create any chances to score, and he didn’t make anyone around him better. This was a defense first effort by Vancouver, and Mattocks did not factor into this game.

Substitutions:

ST – Corey Hertzog: 5/10 Hertzog came on for a lackluster Darren Mattocks in the 65′, and did not come up with any opportunities to score. The usual super sub did not have much of an impact, as Montreal carried much, if not all of the play in the second half. Hertzog couldn’t get forward because Vancouver never broke through for a counter attack.

RM – Erik Hurtado: 5/10 With the Whitecaps looking slow, and sluggish, and with the game coming to a close, Martin Rennie brought on the speedy Erik Hurtado for Alain Rochat with 11 minutes before full-time. Hurtado committed a foul in the 86′, and was lucky that Johnny Leveron was able to clear the ball out of danger. In extra time the Oregon, native had a shot from well out that was easily caught and saved by Evan Bush.

My Man of the Match: Nigel Reo-Coker

The Vancouver Whitecaps defeat MLS Cup Champion LA Galaxy 3-1

VANCOUVER, B.C - Vancouver Whitecaps Match Ratings vs LA Galaxy

GK – Joe Cannon:  7/10 The Whitecaps no. 1 keeper had a comfortable game, and was not under siege very often. Cannon had to dive to his left to make an early save on a header in close from Jose Villarreal. The LA Galaxy could never get their offense going, and Cannon was not tested often enough. The lone goal by the visitors came off a header from Gyasi Zardes in 86′ via a cross from Villarreal. The veteran MLS goalie had no chance on the play, as Zardes was able to get between Johnny Leveron and Andy O’Brien to slot home his 1st MLS goal. LA had 9 corners during the match but only 2 official shots on goal. The high-powered LA Galaxy offense didn’t show up, and Joe Cannon played well.

LB – Alain Rochat: 6/10 Alain Rochat was able to hold the ball on the few occasions that he ventured forward, and when LA attacked the Whitecaps he was solid on his own side of the pitch. He didn’t try to do too much, and that is one of the keys to being a sound, and reliable defender.

CB – Johnny Leveron: 6.5/10 Leveron made his first MLS start at home at BC Place Stadium, and  he did not get off to a good start. In the 3′ he picked up a yellow card after a tough challenge on Galaxy forward Jose Villarreal. He played well for the rest of the match, and was able to avoid being sent off. Leveron, and O’Brien did a fantastic job controlling the box, and defending when the Galaxy looked to score. LA had most of the possession in the first half, but did not create anything substantial in front of Cannon. The Honduran defender had a terrific game for Vancouver, and his only blemish came when an unmarked Zardes scored to make it 2-1 late in the second half.

CB – Andy O’Brien: 7/10 Andy O’Brien was brilliant at the back for the Whitecaps. He was able to get in front of the LA Galaxy players whenever they looked to score, and he showed that he can elevate his game when a top team like LA plays Vancouver. He cleared the ball out of danger right away, and avoided dribbling around with it into any danger. O’Brien was an anchor on defense for Vancouver, and he has been the best Whitecaps defender all season.

RB – Y.P. Lee: 6.5/10 Lee was able to use his speed, and smarts to create plays in the midfield, and a long the flank as Vancouver looked to counter-attack throughout the match. The South Korean star was able to read the play, and make lovely passes that LA couldn’t get on top off. Y.P Lee was solid defensively and LA wasn’t able to take advantage when he ventured up the pitch.

DM – Jun Marques Davidson:7/10 Davidson earned a surprising start for the Whitecaps against the offensive minded LA Galaxy, and he came through with a great game. Sitting back as a holding midfielder in front of the back four, the Japanese import did a bang up job protecting them, and annoying the heck out of Landon Donovan. Jun shadowed Donovan all over the pitch, and completely shut him down. The former Everton man (Donovan) commented on that following the game.

“They made a concerted effort to keep players around me. Their defensive midfielder was kind of shadowing most of the game, and with their center backs. That happens from time to time, and when that does happen we have to do a better job of going at other people creating spaces, and chances.” 

CM – Gershon Koffie:7.5/10 Koffie had two wonderful chances to score in the second half. The first came off a scrambled play to the left of Carlo Cudicini when Camilo, and then Darren Mattocks both failed to get a shot off. With Cudicini down, and looking to grab hold of the ball Koffie came in and fired off the back of the Italian keeper. On the subsequent corner, Russell Teibert’s kick came right to Gershon, who tried to score on first contact. His effort went well over the bar in the 57′. Not being undeterred he decided to be play-maker, and delivered a beauty of a pass to Russell Teibert on his second goal of the game. Koffie stopped on a dime, and laid a perfect pass to Teibert who had a sitter waiting for him to blast the ball past Cudicini. Gershon read the play beautifully, and made Omar Gonzalez look terrible. Koffie was going all game long, and he was a big reason why Vancouver scored 3 goals against the defending MLS champions.

CM – Nigel Reo-Coker: 7.5/10 Once again Nigel Reo-Coker was the best Whitecaps player in the first half, and throughout the game. He made brilliant passes, won the ball off Galaxy defenders and drove up the field. Nigel’s ability to read the play, and react before things unfold is what sets him apart from many MLS players. He delivered a beautiful cross into the box in the 36′ that was deflected on goal by Galaxy defender Omar Gonazalez. Cudicini had to make a terrific save to keep the scored 0-0. Reo-Coker leads by example, and finally in the second half his teammates got going, and helped him out. The London man picked up an assist on Russell Teibert’s first MLS goal, and was happy for him after the game.

“Very happy for him, very proud of him. I’ve seen how hard he works since I’ve been here and seen what he can achieve. He didn’t start today’s game. And this is how football changes, I’ve told him this is how football changes. Daigo went off in the first 10 minutes, and he came on and scored two goals.”

AM – Daigo Kobayashi: 5/10 - Kobayashi had to leave the game with an ankle injury in the 14′, and was replaced by Russell Teibert. In the few minutes that he did play Kobayashi was playing well. He was making great decisions with the ball, and was involved in the play when Vancouver got forward. Following the match Daigo Kobayashi was seen leaving BC Place on crutches.

ST – Darren Mattocks: 7.5/10 Darren Mattocks received a huge cheer from the 21,000 fans in attendance when he finally scored, and ended his scoring struggles. The Whitecaps had a throw in, and the ball bounced around after Koffie, and Harvey failed to do anything with it. Mattocks slotted the ball right between Cudicini’s legs for his 2nd goal of the season. Earlier in the match the Jamaican striker was not short on scoring opportunities in this match, and could have scored sooner if he had not shot directly at Cudicini. Mattocks looked disinterested in the first half, but his play improved in the second 45′ and he rewarded his team with a back-breaking goal in stoppage time.

ST – Camilo Sanvezzo: 5.5/10 Camilo did not look like himself during most of the match, and he struggled to get any real type of offense going for his team in each half.  His customary cut into the middle of the opposition box was not seen, and he didn’t shake, and bake any LA Galaxy defenders. The visitors didn’t give him much room to manoeuvre and the Brazilian was not a factor. To make matters worse he was stretchered, and substituted off in the 78′ with a suspected ankle injury.

Substitutions:

AM- Russell Teibert: 8.5/10 Teibert came on for the injured Daigo Kobayashi in the 14′ and had his most outstanding game for the Whitecaps in his young career. He made terrific passes, and his crosses connected with his teammates when they entered the LA Galaxy box. Teibert took all of the corners for Vancouver, and with his Mom, Dad, and Sister in the crowd Russell Teibert gave them memories they will always remember. He opened the scoring in the 63′ with a beautiful goal. He came down the right flank, and cut across the LA Galaxy box. With nobody marking him he took a brilliant shot that found its way past Carlo Cudicini. This was Teibert’s first career MLS goal, and the first by a Canadian Whitecaps player since Terry Dunfield in the inaugural season. The magic man for Vancouver wasn’t done scoring, and he added his second of the game in the 76′. Gershon Koffie made a lovely drop pass, and an on coming Teibert smashed the ball past Cudicini. He picked up a yellow card for lifting up, and almost removing his shirt. Following the game Teibert had a smile that would stretch across the entire country of Canada if possible.

“It feels great. I was overwhelmed when I scored the first goal, and the second one came and the feeling was extraordinary. Scoring my first two goals in front of my family was huge. They supported my dream to become a professional athlete since I was young, so it’s a little gift for them.”

LB: Jordan Harvey: 5.5/10 Harvey came on for defensive purposes in the 78′ for the ailing Camilo. However, Harvey didn’t appear to be interested in playing any defense. He assisted on Darren Mattock’s goal, and he was unable to block Jose Villarreal’s cross that resulted in Gyasi Zardes scoring. Harvey got up the field with regularity, and played well in his limited time.

CB – Brad Rusin: 5/10 This was Rusin’s first game back since suffering a concussion. He did not play away to Real Salt Lake on May 4, and Martin Rennie likely brought him on to give him a few minutes to get his legs under him before Vancouver decides to use him away to Montreal in the Voyageurs Cup 1st leg on Wednesday.

My Man of the Match: Russell Teibert

The Vancouver Whitecaps come up short against Real Salt Lake

VANCOUVER, B.C - Vancouver Whitecaps Match Ratings at Real Salt Lake

GK – Joe Cannon: 6.5/10 The Whitecaps oldest player, had a relatively easy first half in net. Although Real Salt Lake had the better scoring opportunities in the opening forty-five, nothing on target was dangerous and a serious scoring threat. The lack of pressure, and coordinated attack eventually came back to haunt the Whitecaps keeper in the second half when Real Salt Lake scored the only two goals of the match. There was nothing Cannon could do on the poor defending that led to Luis Gil heading the ball off the left post and in. When Javier Morales struck in the 71′ Cannon was left out to dry by his defenders who were slow to react to the developing play up the field.

LB – Alain Rochat: 5.5/10  Rochat had a decent cross into the box during the final few moments of the first half. Kobayashi was his intended target, however like most of the crosses the Whitecaps delivered nobody could connect on the other end. Rochat was unable to get forward in the second half, and the Whitecaps offense struggled without his creativity along he left flank.

CB – Johnny Leveron: 6/10 Making his first career MLS start, Johnny Leveron looked quite comfortable, and locked in against Real Salt Lake. The Honduran defender was in solid position during the match, and his decision-making process when under attack looked as if he had been playing in MLS for 10 years. Leveron has the poise, and patience to be a great defender in MLS. With Brad Rusin out with a concession, Leveron stepped up, and acquainted himself just fine. He, and Andy O’Brien were a big reason why Real Salt Lake was unable to generate anything substantial in terms of offense in the first half.

CB – Andy O’Brien: 6/10 O’Brien had half a dozen key clearances in the opening first half as Real Salt Lake threatened with scoring chances. O’Brien has started every Whitecaps match this season, and he had another strong showing in Utah. In the 35′ he was able to leap, and get his head on a ball that was sent into the box from a Russell Teibert corner. He did not score as the ball sailed over the bar. The former English Premier League defender was caught out of position on the opening goal of the game when Luis Gil got behind him to head the ball off the post, and in to make it 1-0 Real Salt Lake. O’Brien appeared to be tiring as the game progressed, and his fitness could come into play further down the road if he continues to log heavy minutes on the Whitecaps back line.

RB – Y.P. Lee: 5.5/10 Y.P. Lee was given little, or no space to manoeuvre in the opening first half. Real Salt Lake did a great job of closing in on the South Korean whenever he looked to get forward with a great pass, or give, and go play. Y.P. Lee sent in a good-looking cross in the 14′, unfortunately it was slightly out of the reach of an oncoming Corey Hertzog. Lee, was unable to block the cross sent in by Joao Plata that led to the 1-0 goal by Real Salt Lake. Lee was also unable to get back on defense when the home side made it 2-0. Lee, Koffie, and several other players did not make it back in time to help out Joe Cannon after Joao Plata delivered a perfect pass to Javier Morales.

After the final whistle Lee talked about what happened on the opening goal.

“I think that today we lost because of me. I had to block the cross first and I didn’t and they (RSL) got the first goal. The first goal made everything different. It’s an individual responsibility.”

DM – Gershon Koffie: 5.5/10 Koffie had an attempt on target from well out in the 55′, which was easily caught by Nick Rimando. Koffie earned himself a harsh yellow card in the 87′ after a small bump with Morales. He was also slow to get back on defense earlier when Morales scored, and his offense was nowhere to be found when the Whitecaps did go forward. The midfield play by Vancouver was sloppy, and it looked like the team was lost. The midfield had a tough time distributing the ball up top, and “Gersh” did not have a good game.

DM – Nigel Reo-Coker: 7/10 Reo-Coker was a force on the pitch all match long. In the first half, his hard-nosed style of play earned him a yellow card from referee Juan Guzman, after a somewhat questionable tackle on Real Salt Lake striker Joao Plata. Reo-Coker came flying in feet first, and did appear to get to the ball before Plata. The Real forward went flying, and Reo-Coker was booked. Despite being carded, he was one of the best Whitecaps players on the pitch. He was sending in crosses, making great passes, and stealing the ball at every chance he could. Reo-Coker had a lovely ball across the goal mouth of the Real Salt Lake net in the 71′ that Corey Hertzog was unable to get his foot on. The Englishman showed up to play, and subsequently he was very involved for the visitors for all 90 minutes, and that is the true form of a captain when things aren’t going well.

Nonetheless, he wasn’t holding back in his criticism after the game.

“Best way to describe us was soft. We were a soft team. We don’t compete enough. We didn’t compete enough today and we were just soft and that’s the best way to put it. Being hard at football doesn’t mean going around and tackling and smashing people, being hard means competing and being hard to beat, hard to face as an individual, helping your teammate out. We didn’t do any of that today.”

LM – Russell Teibert: 4.5/10 The Canadian International did not have his best game of the season. Teibert was not able to connect with any teammates on his crosses, or the corners he took. The usually creative midfielder made poor passes that were picked off by Real Salt Lake, and he wasn’t able to get on a long run with the ball. To make matters worse Teibert picked up a knock early in the second half, and was playing with a noticeable limp. Real Salt Lake man marked him closely, and as a result Teibert was in a funk for most of the match.

AM - Daigo Kobayashi: 5/10 Kobayashi’s play with the ball was poor, and not what it needed to be against a tough opponent like Real Salt Lake. His crosses into the box were nowhere near Corey Hertzog or any other Whitecaps player. Kobayashi has shown that he can make brilliant plays, and take defenders on with great succession but that wasn’t what he did in Utah. The Japanese playmaker didn’t have his best game on Saturday night, and his give, and go plays were well read by Real Salt Lake, and cut off. He was lucky Martin Rennie didn’t decide to substitute him.

RM – Camilo Sanvezzo: 6/10 Camilo had a fantastic chance to score for the Whitecaps in the second half after Real made it 1-0. In the 58′, he had all the time in the world to score but his shot on target went slightly over the bar. Nick Rimando was in no position to make the save, and lucky enough for him the Brazilian missed the top left corner. Camilo likes to dazzle, and take charge when he gets the ball but that was not the case against Real Salt Lake. He didn’t play with the confidence, flare, and finesse that has made him one of the more consistent Whitecaps players this season. Martin Rennie used his first substitution of the game to take off Camilo off for Kekuta Manneh.

ST – Corey Hertzog: 6.5/10 Hertzog had some lively legs in the first half, but he was unable to connect on any of the crosses, and passes his teammates fed him. The balls sent in for Hertzog were either too far in front of him, or directly into the waiting arms of Real Salt Lake keeper Nick Rimando. The Bayern Munich supporter had the best chance to score for the Whitecaps in the second half when his shot got through Nick Rimando, and appeared to be going into the net. At the last possible moment Real Salt Lake defender Nat Borchers swooped in and kicked the ball off the line, and out of harms way. Hertzog was buzzing, and you could sense that he was going to score if he could just get a foot to the ball… for the most part he was a man on his own stuck on a deserted island with no ability to radio for help.

Substitutions:

RM: Kekuta Manneh: 5/10 Manneh had a decent opportunity to score for Vancouver, however the young rookie waited and took too much time before shooting. His attempted on target was easily blocked, and cleared away by Real Salt Lake.

ST – Darren Mattocks: 4/10 Mattocks, and Heinemann came on one minute apart in the second half as Martin Rennie looked to get something going on offense. Mattocks was sat in favour of Corey Hertzog, and he did not show any flashes or reasons to suggest that Rennie should have been questioned for that decision. Mattocks is in a deep slump, and he looks like a completely different player from the guy that led the Whitecaps in scoring last season.

ST – Tom Heinemann: 5/10 Heinemann was the victims of a two footed tackle by Chris Wingert in the 79′. With the Whitecaps crosses falling well short of their intended targets Heinemann was brought on for his height, and leaping ability in the box. Vancouver could not capitalize on his attributes, and score a goal. He tried to set up Darren Mattocks in the 81′, but with Chris Schuler all over him the Jamaican could not get a shot on target off.

My Man of the Match: Nigel Reo-Coker

The Vancouver Whitecaps eliminate FC Edmonton

VANCOUVER, B.C - Vancouver Whitecaps Match Ratings vs FC Edmonton

GK – Brad Knighton: 6.5/10 Although he was not tested often by FC Edmonton, Brad Knighton was sharp in net when pressed to come up with an important save. Knighton stopped four FC Edmonton shots on target, and none were of a dangerous variety. FC Edmonton didn’t start attacking until the second half when the game was already out of reach. Knighton played smart, and thwarted any attack, or cross attempt the visitors sent his way. Knighton was well deserving of a clean sheet.

LB – Jordan Harvey:  7/10 Harvey looked good at left back for Vancouver, and he was frequently getting forward on the left flank as Vancouver pressed for a goal in the first half. The Vancouver Whitecaps had zero drop off at left back with Alain Rochat out of the lineup. Harvey had a lot of energy, and equipped himself well during the game. Jordan Harvey kept himself in front of the ball for most of the evening, and was not caught out of position by FC Edmonton.

CB – Johnny Leveron: 6.5/10 In his second career start for the Vancouver Whitecaps, Johnny Leveron was impressive once again. Leveron played smart, and did not take any risks when the ball came to him. Leveron, was playing his first career game at BC Place, and he looked calm, and quite sure of himself. He was not caught out of position, and he played with poise all evening. He was great on the ball, and found open teammates up the field when necessary.

CB – Andy O’Brien: 7/10 O’Brien had a terrific chance to add to the Whitecaps lead late in the second half in the 82′ minute. O’Brien was in the FC Edmonton box when his headed attempt on target hit Lance Parker in the leg as he was diving across the net, after a poor clearance by his defenders. The steady Irishman wasn’t supposed to draw into the lineup against FC Edmonton, but he did a terrific job on the back line for the Whitecaps as Brad Rusin was not fit to start.

RB – Greg Klazura: 6.5/10 Klazura’s passing is a strong attribute of his, and that was widely on display against FC Edmonton. Klazura was able to hit his teammates on the run, as they looked to catch FC Edmonton sleeping. Klazura was in great position all match long, and he was able to stay alert, and active on defense when FC Edmonton went forward looking to score.

LM – Russell Teibert: 8/10 Teibert was very active in the opening half of the match. He looked quite comfortable, and in control of the ball on the left flank. Teibert’s creative foot work gave FC Edmonton defenders a challenge, and Teibert was well in form throughout the match. He took two corners for the Whitecaps in the first half but none resulted in any goals being scored.  He also picked up an assist on the opening goal of the match when he headed the ball to half-time substitute Corey Hertzog, who blasted the ball past keeper, Lance Parker from 40 yards out. Teibert was an instrumental force up, and down the field for the Whitecaps, and he was a big reason why the Whitecaps were able to click offensively. Teibert looked to have scored his own goal in the second half off a set piece corner for the Whitecaps. On second looked it was clear that FC Edmonton forward Shaun Saiko brilliantly headed the ball past his own keeper for an own goal.

CM – Gershon Koffie: 6.5/10 Koffie was sound defensively, and very responsible on both sides of the pitch during the match. Koffie cleared the ball out of danger early on, and also played a beautiful ball into Darren Mattocks who was able to beat Lance Parker, but not the post. Koffie’s effort was certainly on display, and he played a great game in the midfield for Vancouver. Koffie had his own chance to score in the 38′ minute when he fired a long ball just wide  left of the FC Edmonton target. Gershon Koffie had one of his better games in quite sometime, and it helped the Whitecaps send FC Edmonton packing.

CM – Jun Marques Davidson: 6/10 Davidson looked focused, and played good against FC Edmonton. Davidson has been playing poorly on the pitch in recent Whitecaps games, but he did not look out-of-place against in this match. Davidson was able to nick the ball away on a couple of occasions in the first half, and he was able to react as the play was happening instead of afterwards. Davidson had a pretty good bounce back game, and he was a key asset as a defensive stalwart for the Whitecaps.

RM – Camilo Sanvezzo: 7.5/10 Camilo was dazzling on the pitch for the Whitecaps. His ball control, and slick moves getting the crowd going, and they give the opposition fits. The Whitecaps need to get more of a consistent offence going, and Camilo is a guy who needs to be a big part of that. At one point Camilo flicked the ball over a FC Edmonton defender, and then ran past him to retrieve it like it was a nothing play. On 13′ minutes Camilo took a free kick not far from the corner flag, and saw it juggled, and almost mishandled by Lance Parker. The ball was extremely close to crossing the line for a Whitecaps goal. Camilo had the vision, and magic to get the Whitecaps going, and once again he was a dangerous threat for Vancouver against FC Edmonton.

ST – Tom Heinemann: 6.5/10 Heinemann had some early chances to get Vancouver a goal in the opening 5 minutes of the match. He had a header go well over the bar, and an attempted flick on target that went wide left. Heinemann looked focused, and ready to play, and he made a lovely pass to Darren Mattocks on 43 minutes, that went wide of the left after Mattocks got a slight touch on the ball. His height, and size were something FC Edmonton’s defenders had a tough time containing. Heinemann’s confidence, and strong play seems to be growing with the minutes Martin Rennie is playing him.

ST – Darren Mattocks: 5.5/10 In the first half, Camilo sent a lovely through ball to Darren Mattocks, however the speedy striker was unable to handle the pass, and he dribbled himself out-of-bounds for an FC Edmonton goal kick. Mattocks had a harmless shot on target in the opening half, that was easily turned aside by Parker. The best opportunity for both teams to score in the opening half came when the Jamaican forward was sprung into the box without an FC Edmonton defender in sight. Unfortunately for Mattocks, he hammered the ball squarely off the post. With more exceptional missed chances to score Darren Mattocks had another frustrating match, and he was subbed off for Corey Hertzog to start the second half.

Substitutions:

ST – Corey Hertzog: 8.5/10 Hertzog was involved in a harsh challenge just five minutes after coming on for Darren Mattocks in the second half. Russell Teibert booted the ball up the field hoping to spring Hertzog for a breakaway. Hertzog appeared to be on his way when FC Edmonton defender Adrian LeRoy got caught up in a tackle, and brought him down. LeRoy was visibly upset with referee Geoff Gamble, and was serenaded by the Southsiders as he left the pitch. Although he did not get a chance to score on that play, Corey Hertzog got the last laugh as he opened the scoring in the 58′ minute with a cracker of a goal from 40 yards out. Teibert headed the ball to Hertzog, and the Bayern Munich supporter caught Lance Parker playing too far out, and he deposited the ball into the lower left portion of the net to give Vancouver a 1-0 lead. Although he only played the second half, Corey Hertzog was the best player on the pitch, and he showed zero ill effects from the concussion like symptoms he suffered a few weeks ago in practice.

RM – Kekuta Manneh: 5/10 Manneh was brought on for his quick speed, and pace in the second half, but with the Whitecaps well ahead of FC Edmonton on aggregate the Whitecaps did not need to use Manneh as desperately as we’ve seen before. Manneh had a weak shot on target in the final few moments of the game.

LM – Erik Hurtado: 5/10 Hurtado had a chance to score his first professional goal for the Whitecaps in the 80′ minute off a Vancouver Whitecaps corner. The rookie was able to leap forward, and head the ball down off the pitch, but his effort was just wide of the target.

My Man of the Match: Corey Hertzog

The Vancouver Whitecaps earn a hard fought point after drawing FC Dallas 2-2

VANCOUVER, B.C - Vancouver Whitecaps Match Ratings vs FC Dallas

GK – Joe Cannon - 5.5/10 - Joe Cannon is great at a lot of things, however ball dribbling is not one of them. Cannon needlessly dribbled around his own box like he was going for a Sunday afternoon stroll in the park. His carelessness led to an early FC Dallas corner, which came back to bite the Whitecaps. FC Dallas took an early 1-0 lead on 9′ minutes on an own goal credited to Andy O’Brien. It looked like Cannon was waiting for a foul to be called on Kenny Cooper who had his header go off O’Brien and into the net. Instead of reacting to the play it appeared that Cannon waited for a foul call that never came. Cannon looked even worse in net when FC Dallas made it 2-0 early in the second half. Michel took a free kick from well out, and FC Dallas defender Matt Hedges had the ball come directly to him. Nobody in a Whitecaps kit was around to help Cannon, and as he went down the ball was flicked into the net by Hedges. Cannon put his arms out in frustration after his defenders let him down. Cannon made a brilliant save on Blas Perez in extra time to keep the score 2-2. By far this was the most  difficult game Joe Cannon has had this season, even his clearing attempts were disastrous. It would not be surprising to see Brad Knighton in-goal next Saturday when the Whitecaps visit Real Salt Lake. 

LB – Alain Rochat - 5/10 -  Rochat didn’t have his legs going against FC Dallas in the first half. He was getting beaten on the outside by Blas Perez, and he was slow to react to the play. It was clear that FC Dallas was targeting the Whitecaps left back. Players and passes got behind Rochat throughout the game, and that was a big reason why Matt Hedges was left unmarked when he scored his goal. Rochat was the victim of an outrageously wicked backhanded slap from FC Dallas midfielder Jackson in the 78′ minute. Rochat was hit in the face, and bled immediately. 

Rochat’s wife, Emile Rochat sent out this tweet (@EmiRochat) during the match regarding the incident.

” My husband is so handsome, people are so jealous they break his nose.”

CB – Brad Rusin - 6/10 - Brad Rusin was turned inside out in the opening minute of the game. Rusin almost tripped over himself, and looked completely baffled by the slick moves by FC Dallas. Subsequently, Gershon Koffie had to make a tackle, and he earned a yellow card for his challenge. Rusin had an on going battle with Blas Perez all throughout the match. Rusin was able to keep Perez in check for most of the game, and his opportunities to cause damage were few, and far between.  

Following the game Rusin talked about how his captain was able to get the team going.

“Our captain Nigel has done well, he showed a lot of heart and desire going forward to get the boys going and through his play we can feed off him. He has driven us a lot.”

CB – Andy O’Brien - 5.5/10 - O’Brien played in his 3rd match in less than 8 days, and it appeared that he was not it top form when FC Dallas opened the scored the opening goal. Kenny Cooper got between Joe Cannon and O’Brien to head the ball into the Vancouver net. To make matters worse the ball went off O’Brien last before entering the goal, and he was later credited with an own goal. As the Whitecaps picked up their pace in the second half, O’Brien settled in and played better in his own end of the pitch.

RB – Y.P. Lee – 7/10 - Y.P. Lee got forward, and had an attempt on target just as the first half was coming to an end. His flick on net was deflected over the bar by FC Dallas but the play helped earn two corners for Vancouver before half time. When Lee gets forward usually positive things happen for the Whitecaps offense. The Korean was one of the better Vancouver players for the full 90′ minutes. His poise, and experience showed when the Whitecaps went down 2-0. Lee was able to go one on one and beat FC Dallas defenders, and the crowed loved it. When a team is struggling players like Y.P. Lee don’t seem to get rattled or frustrated by what’s happening, they just keep calm, and carry on playing their game.

DM – Jun Marques Davidson – 4/10 - Davidson had a terrible game for the Whitecaps. His play throughout the match was poor. For a defensive midfielder…. his defense needs a complete overhaul. Davidson was slow to react on countless plays and appeared to have no idea as to who he should have been covering during set pieces. In the first half he let Matt Hedges go right past him on an FC Dallas corner. In the second half Hedges got past Davidson and Rochat when he beat Joe Cannon. Davidson gave Hedges all the room in the world, and he took advantage. No wonder Cannon displayed his frustration afterwards. For his own sake, Davidson was substituted off in the 54′ minute for Kekuta Manneh.

CM – Gershon Koffie – 6/10 –  Koffie picked up a yellow card 90 seconds into the match, and had to be on his best behaviour for the duration of the game. This was a perfect game for a player like Gershon Koffie to be involved with. Koffie played well and was a part of the offense when Vancouver was attacking. His give and go with Camilo in the first half almost resulted in a Y.P. Lee goal. Koffie was a workhorse in the midfield alongside Nigel Reo-Coker.

CM – Nigel Reo-Coker – 7/10 - The Whitecaps captain took a bit of a knock in the opening half after a rash challenge from Blas Perez, and was favouring his right ankle moments later. However the tough man from across the pond was able to tough it out, and play a full 90′ minutes. Reo-Coker put on a terrific display of passes, and crosses in the opening half. He set up Darren Mattocks a couple of times in the opening half, which should have put Vancouver on the board. When the Whitecaps aren’t clicking, Nigel Reo-Coker seems to be able to rally his teammates and get them going. He was fantastic in the midfield, and a huge reason why Vancouver came back to earn a draw.

AM - Daigo Kobayashi – 6.5/10 –  Kobayashi was able to use his speed, and his dynamic ball control to create chances to score for the Whitecaps before being taken off in the 70′ minute. His footwork is very unique, and when he goes one on one against a defender he often comes out a winner. The few times that Kobayashi went at FC Dallas defender were chances the Whitecaps wouldn’t have had without Kobayashi quick thinking and skill. Kobayashi was better against FC Dallas but his game isn’t quite where it should be yet.

ST – Darren Mattocks – 6.5/10 - Darren Mattocks had half a dozen or more chances to score for the Whitecaps against FC Dallas. His first was a brilliant opportunity to score 3′ minutes in when the ball bounced off an Nigel Reo-Coker, and Zach Lloyd. Mattocks blasted the ball on goal, however keeper Raul Fernandez came off his line quickly to cut down the angle Mattocks had. Mattocks had an ever better chance to score in the 39′ minute when Nigel Reo-Coker played the ball over to him, however the ball was just out of the reach. As the game progressed so did the quality of scoring chance. He made a run down the left flank in the second half, and as Raul Fernandez raced out to meet him Mattocks fired into the unguarded net, and had the ball hit the left post. Late in the game he had a chance to put the home team up 3-2. Kekuta Manneh fired, on target and Fernandez wasn’t able to catch the ball. Mattocks raced towards the rebound with an FC Dallas defender on him, and fired the ball wide to the right. On this day, he came away with no goals, and no assists but if he keeps getting the chances that he did against FC Dallas his scoreless drought should be snapped sooner rather than later.

Although he missed a lot of chances to score he was focusing on positives post game.

“As a striker I’m always going to judge myself on goals but I think my work rate was extreme and the hardest I’ve worked since I’ve been to Vancouver so I am going to take the positives.”

ST – Camilo Sanvezzo - 7.5/10 - Like most Whitecaps players Camilo got off to a slow start against FC Dallas. He had a free kick on target that was punched away by Fernandez in the first half, but most of his exciting play came in the second half. Camilo helped save the Whitecaps from defeat when he scored the 2-2 tying goal for Vancouver. Kekuta Manneh played a perfect wonderful pass to Camilo, who was in the FC Dallas box unmarked. Camilo fired on net, and had the ball deflected off the leg of Jair Benitez into the goal. Camilo had early had his shot on goal turned aside by Fernandez before Manneh struck for the Whitecaps. Camilo has been one of the most exciting, and consistent Whitecaps players of late, and he was great in the Whitecaps comeback against FC Dallas.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

ST – Kekuta Manneh – 8/10 - What an amazing substitution by Martin Rennie to bring on Manneh in the second half. Manneh, had his afterburners going and he ran circles around FC Dallas in his 36” minutes of action. The 18 year-old, rookie from Gambia scored in the 72′ minute after Tom Heinemann headed the ball over to an unmarked Manneh. Kekuta was able to take his time, and calmly blast the ball past the right side of Raul Fernandez for his first career MLS goal. Manneh kissed the ground after scoring, but he wasn’t done helping the Whitecaps score. In the 74′ minute Manneh broke down the left flank, and raced past his defender. He delivered a lovely pass to Camilo who scored the 2-2 goal. Manneh looked like a 10 year MLS pro with his masterful play coming on as a substitute. The Whitecaps were buzzing, and creating chances when Kekuta came on and he took advantage, and cashed in the opportunities he was involved in.

Manneh talked about his first goal in MLS following the game.

“It always feels good to score my first professional goal. Really excited about that. Thank my teammates and the fans for their support.”

ST – Tom Heinemann – 7/10 - Heinemann came on for Kobayashi in the second half, and earned a lovely assist on the Manneh goal. As he was falling to the ground, Heinemann somehow managed to get his head on the ball to deflect it over to Kekuta Manneh. It was great to see Heinemann using his tall frame to his advantage in the Whitecaps attack.  

My Man of the Match: Kekuta Manneh