Western Conference Preview

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VANCOUVER WHITECAPS

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Western Conference Preview
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CHARLESTON, SC - FEBRUARY 23: Andy O'Brien #40 of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC looks to pass the ball against the Chicago Fire during the second half of the Carolina Challenge Cup at Blackbaud Stadium on February 23, 2013 in Charleston, South Carolina
CHARLESTON, SC - FEBRUARY 23: Andy O'Brien #40 of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC looks to pass the ball against the Chicago Fire during the second half of the Carolina Challenge Cup at Blackbaud Stadium on February 23, 2013 in Charleston, South Carolina

2012 record: 11-13-10 (5th in Western Conference, eliminated in knockout round)

Additions: M Daigo Kobayashi (Free Agent), M Nigel Reo-Coker (Discovery rights trade W/ Timbers), D Johnny Leveron (Free Agent), Kekutah Manneh (SuperDraft)

Losses: M Barry Robson, D Martin Bonjour, M John Thorrington, M Atiba Harris.

Overview: They managed a marvelous turn around last season, going from worst to a playoff spot, before bowing out in the knockout stage. Now the club has rid itself of a glaring problem in Barry Robson, shored up the defense with more depth, signed a 28 year old former EPL'er in Nigel Reo Coker, and drafted well, with Kekutah Manneh and Erik Hurtado already looking like gamers. Brad Knighton and Joe Cannon form a formidable duo in net, and Daigo Kobayashi will look to replace the creative spark that left with M Davide Chiumiento. The 'Caps could be a very good team, provided defenders YP Lee and Jay Demerit stay healthy, which will be a challenge. Demerit is already battling an Achilles injury, and the club struggles mightily when their Captain does not play. Lee will be looking for more rest time, meaning depth will be a huge factor for the 'Caps this year. They made a giant leap in their second season; all they need now is another step.

Player to watch: Like you need to ask. Kenny Miller has been a high priced bust so far, but is committed to sticking it out with the club and leaving it all on the pitch this year. If he can become a viable third scoring option, then both Darren Mattocks and Camilo will see plenty more room on the attack.


Comments

  • JohnF

    great fans, but its not enough to win the west.

  • JohnF

    top team in the west

  • JohnF

    mid table team but could get some surprise results.

  • JohnF

    decent team but need more than buddle.

  • JohnF

    worse team and fans ever

  • Kelli S

    reo coker is a terrific player and will be a play maker and game changer in this team.

  • Kelli S

    Montero lose is a huge blow but i believe the new signings and atmosphere is enough to finish in the top two.

  • Kelli S

    Earthquakes can turn a few heads this season.

  • Kelli S

    they will struggle

  • Kelli S

    A team to watch out for in my opinion.

  • Kelli S

    Donovan will be back soon.

  • Kelli S

    the loss of Shea is going to really hurt them.

  • Kelli S

    Buddle is past it. Not an impact player like he use to be.

  • Kelli S

    will be terrible again this season.