VANCOUVER, BC – One of the keys to success over an MLS season is consistency.
Earth-shattering, right?
It’s such an obvious thing to say, and we hear it so often that it has become cliché, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Take Vancouver Whitecaps FC, for example.
One of the reasons Vancouver had so much success in 2017, finishing third in the Western Conference and just one point out of first, is because they didn’t go on any extended losing streaks. In fact, the ‘Caps only lost two MLS games in a row ONCE all season – and that was back in March when they were in the midst of their CONCACAF Champions League semifinal vs. Mexican side Tigres UANL.
They were one of only four teams who didn’t have more than one losing streak – the others being New York City FC, who didn’t lose consecutive matches all season, Seattle Sounders FC, Sporting Kansas City, and Toronto FC. That’s pretty good company.
2017 MLS REGULAR SEASON FORM GUIDE
Vancouver’s record after losses last season was 10W-1L-1D.
And some of those wins came against the likes of Seattle Sounders FC, Sporting Kansas City (home and away), Atlanta United FC, New York City FC, and FC Dallas (away), so it’s not like it was a result of a favourable schedule, either.
Usually, it’s the extended winning streaks that get the headlines – and rightfully so. But avoiding a lengthy losing streak can be just as important when tallying up points at the end of the season.
This, of course, is all relevant now because the ‘Caps are coming off their first defeat of 2018 – a 4-1 loss to Atlanta United FC that saw Kendall Waston controversially sent off in the 13th minute. Can they bounce back on Saturday when LA Galaxy come to town?
If last year was any indication, the answer should be a resounding yes.
Kickoff for Saturday’s match is set for 7 p.m. PT at BC Place – limited tickets are still available.
