VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC visit San Jose Earthquakes at Avaya Stadium tonight as they attempt to clinch a spot in the 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs.
KICKOFF: 7:30 p.m. PT TV: TSN RADIO: TSN 1410
Here are three storylines to get you set for the match.
PUNCHING THE TICKET
Whitecaps FC have a chance to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs for the second straight season with a win tonight. On the other end of the pitch, the Quakes are fighting to stay alive in the race.
The 'Caps must show urgency to match San Jose's desperation, and coming off consecutive losses, head coach Carl Robinson's side should have more than enough motivation.
Last season, Kendall Waston'splayoff-clinching header provided the top moment for the year. You have to wonder who can step up to the forefront to lead the 'Caps into the postseason this time around.
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN'
San Jose has not exactly been a friendly confine for the 'Caps historically, whether it's in Buck Shaw Stadium or the shiny new Avaya Stadium.
In the 'Caps four years in the MLS, Vancouver remains winless in San Jose after six visits.
However, the last time the Blue and White were in the state of California, they put a stop to a similar drought - winning on the road versus LA Galaxy, where they had previously been 0W-7L-0D. Can the 'Caps repeat the feat up the road on the I-5?
SUPPORTERS' SHIELD RACE
The 'Caps have a solid chance of retaking the driver's seat in the Supporters' Shield race. Currently two points ahead of Vancouver for the lead, LA Galaxy have a tough road match against the suddenly resurgent Seattle Sounders FC on Sunday.
In the east, the New York Red Bulls (tied with the 'Caps with 48 points and a game in hand on Vancouver), host Columbus Crew, who have won four of their last six matches.
Looming over the 'Caps past this weekend is an all-important home-and-away series with FC Dallas, who are just a point behind with a game in hand.
Can the 'Caps capitalize on this weekend's schedule? Tune in tonight to find out.
Be a part of the best sporting atmosphere in Vancouver! 2016 Whitecaps FC Season Tickets are now on sale. In addition to Season Tickets, 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.
