Vancouver Whitecaps 1-Columbus Crew 1
The Vancouver Whitecaps sure are enjoying playing the role of spoilers. After dealing a serious blow to the Houston Dynamo’s playoff ambitions last week they pulled off a similar feat last night against the Columbus Crew. Thanks to a late goal from Fredy Montero the Caps all but sealed the Crew’s fate for this season with a 1-1 draw at BC Place.
Things seemed to be going to Columbus’ way early with Whitecaps goalkeeper Zac MacMath conceding a penalty in the 18th minute. Gyasi Zardes slotted home the game’s first goal with a low shot past MacMath, his 13th of the year. In the second half Whitecaps coach Marc dos Santos made two tactical substitutions on the attack that proved to make the difference in the match, bringing on Montero and Michaell Chrinos to give the side a bit more spark. It paid off in the 94th minute with Montero heading home the equalizer.
With the draw Columbus’ playoff hopes were dealt a serious blow (9-15-8, 35 points) . They now find themselves eight points behind the New England Revolution (10-10-11, 41 points) for the seventh and final playoff spot. While New England also drew 0-0 on Saturday against Real Salt Lake they also have a game in hand. Their home match against the Philadelphia Union next Sunday (5pm EST, ESPN +) will likely be an elimination match for them.
As for Vancouver (7-15-10, 31 points) they have now earned four points in their last two matches and have shown that they can perhaps end the season in solid form. They will hope to continue their run as a spoiler next Sunday when they travel to Los Angeles to take on the Galaxy (9:30pm EST, ESPN+).
On hand to cover the match was Prost photographer Gerrit te Hennepe. You can check out more of his work on our SmugMug page.
