This weekend’s match between Vancouver and Portland could prove pivotal in the grand scheme of things, for both clubs as they push forward with their individual existences. It is no secret to fans in the Pacific North West that both squads find themselves reeling as they enter this weekend.
Vancouver powered out of the gates and found themselves in fourth position in the (West) table mere weeks ago. After a string of injuries, suspensions and international departures, the Canadian part of this expansion brotherhood is in a tailspin. Pundits and punters alike have begun to push the panic button.
As the Whitecaps search desperately for the prescription for their recent poor form, hapless Portland present a possible golden apple that Vancouver so desperately needs.
The plethora of problems North of the border pale in comparison to the pandemic issues at hand for last place Portland. Perceived strengths and poorly constructed plans have put Portland in position to plan a party, celebrating the first overall pick in this post seasons Super Draft.
Many people will point to a recent drop in production by Designated Player Kris Boyd. After a 2 goal output on July 15 against the LA Galaxy, he has not managed to pot a goal in the clubs last 6 matches. The Scottish import found himself riding the pine as the team played in the Big Apple last week.[PRBREAK][/PRBREAK]
Putting all the blame on one player is foolhardy and Portland’s owner Merritt Paulson tried to make the preemptive strike dispatching the team’s head coach early on July 9th , as they struggled to compete.
The decision polarized commenters and supporters alike. Gavin Wilkinson who piloted the Timbers during their USSF D2 days has been thrust back into his role as head coach and one has to wonder how long he has to right the ship. The man placed in charge of preparing the club for their big league premier is left to pick up the pieces. After a disappointing second term, the question I present is how long does he have? Ownership has stepped up in support of Wilkinson but at some point the bleeding has to be put to an end.
This is where the perfect storm is made.
A derby day victory at home in front of the peanut gallery would certainly provide the opportunity for Wilkinson to regain some confidence among his players. Despite being out of the playoff picture, his club still needs to perform in front of the paying customer. The Oregon based outfit can not afford to treat this match as a trial for next season. There is a lot more on the line here. This game will be about pride.
Enough about Portland, they are not the only ones who look to profit from this perfect storm.
This is where all hell breaks loose
The Whitecaps are desperate for a strong performance as they look to stay in the playoff hunt, pressing to make the post season in their sophomore campaign.
After a disappointing string of play as of late, they are presented with an opportunity to get back on track against a paltry Portland club. With the flags waving and the Timbers Army singing, this should produce an atmosphere second to none.
John Thorrington is the educated prediction to fill in for the suspended Gershon Koffie. The perpetually injured veteran is looking to bounce back from a series of set backs that had kept him off the pitch for most of the summer. His tendency to get stuck in and play the physical game is sure to draw some additional attention from the officiating crew. Not to mention the ire of the pantheon of green and yellow.
On the subject of green and yellow, the Jamaican pairing of Dane Richards and Darren Maddox will look to speed past the pathetic Timbers defence and get points on the board, having been stymied the previous week. If the speedsters find their stride it could be absolute pandemonium.
The potential for some consistency from the Whitecaps fullbacks is an important talking point this week.
The possibility of another viewing of Bonjour and O’brien, presents a savory package for Vancouver fans. The gaffer will look to shore up any inconsistencies that have popped up as the present slide has taken place by creating some familiarity. Jay DeMerit’s “untimely” concussion has interrupted the normal cohesion at the back. Last week’s suspension did little to help with forming a solid backline partnership in the captain’s absence.
While Carlyle Mitchells efforts last week were a pleasant surprise (for the most part), but the more reliable pairing of Bonjour and O’brien should relieve any added pressure on poor Joe Cannon as he looks to add another clean sheet to his stats.
It’s a game with endless possibilities and this is a powder keg match if ever there was one this season. Last place Portland playing for pride, and the Whitecaps trying to end a painful slide.
A playoff position on the line. Players fighting for jobs on next years squad.
I present you with the Perfect Storm.
7:30 p.m., Saturday August 25. Jeld Wen Park, Portland Oregon.
This post was brought to you by the letter P