HARRISON, NJ – Vancouver Whitecaps FC (15W-10L-6D) have secured their berth in the Audi 2017 MLS Cup Playoffs, but the job is not done yet. As Carl Robinson said, there’s still “lots to play for” on Saturday when the ‘Caps visit New York Red Bulls (12W-12L-7D) at Red Bull Arena.
KICKOFF: 2 p.m. PT | TV: TSN1 | RADIO: TSN 1410
Here are the key storylines to watch.
PLAYOFF IMPLICATIONS
There are major playoff implications for both sides in this one.
The Western Conference-leading ‘Caps need one point to clinch a home playoff match in the Knockout Round, and three points to get a bye to the two-leg Western Conference semifinals. The Red Bulls, meanwhile, are fighting for the sixth and final playoff spot in the East. A win on Saturday would punch their ticket to the postseason.
TEST OF DEPTH
Carl Robinson will be without midfielders Christian Bolaños and Yordy Reyna, centre back Kendall Waston, and goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic on Saturday due to international duty.
So, once again, Vancouver’s depth will be tested.
With that in mind, one player who could see his first minutes of the season is newcomer Nosa Igiebor. Robinson said this week that the Nigerian box-to-box midfielder has “progressed nicely” in his fitness and could be available off the bench at Red Bull Arena.
CHASING HISTORY
The ‘Caps are coming close to a number of different club records in MLS.
With one more win, they would set a new record for points and equal their previous record highs for wins (16) and away wins (7). Can they get the job done on Saturday?
