Vancouver Whitecaps v Philadelphia Union – A MLS Season Opener Story In Pictures

In reality, Thursday night’s historic CONCACAF Champions League win over New York Red Bulls was Vancouver Whitecaps’ home season opener. Just as well, because the MLS version on Sunday night was a poor affair if you were looking for attacking football, but at least very promising from a defensive side.

The ‘Caps played out a 0-0 draw against Philadelphia Union at BC Place, mustering only one shot on target in the process. Disappointing after some of the attacking play they produced and especially after what we saw they were capable of against the Red Bulls.

But two clean sheets in the space of four days is nothing to be sniffed at, especially after last year’s disasters at the back. The signs are definitely there that it’s a much more effective defensive unit this season. The continuing two man defensive shield has a part to play in that, although can be frustrating to watch at home when you’re looking for the team to go and attack.

The problem for the ‘Caps is none of their three main DMs have much attacking prowess. A new face in there would certainly add a different dynamic.

Jordan Harvey saw his second half shot cleared off the line, and that was the closest either team came to breaking the deadlock. It was one to forget, but there’s a long season ahead. The ‘Caps need to make home advantage pay this season, so we’re putting this down to emotional and physical fatigue after the Champions League game, or hoping it’s just that at least.

AFTN photographer Tom Ewasiuk was there to capture all the action before, during and after the game on Sunday night. Here’s his “Story In Pictures”, with a full Flickr slideshow at the end.

[Also check out Tom’s website www.residualimagephotography.com for more of his photos and work].

The night already started poorly with a late referee change meaning no Alan Kelly and being stuck with Sorin Stoica

The Southsiders tifo

Your Vancouver Whitecaps starting XI

Alphonso Davies continued to be a bright spot in the ‘Caps attack. Non stop running and urgency. We need more like him.

David Ousted didn’t have a lot to do, but when he was called up he did what was needed

The ‘Caps best chance in the first half fell to Cristian Techera

But ‘The Bug’ pulled his shot wide

Willie’s Corner getting animated!

Another game, another Matias Laba yellow card. That’s two in two games. This is going to cost us down the line if he keeps this up.

Tom didn’t get a clear photo of Jordan Harvey’s second half shot that was cleared off the line, so here’s another photo of him instead!

You’ll never beat Dave Ousted

Was great to see Christian Dean back on the pitch. Guy was a rock all night long and my ‘Man of the Match’. Going to be a good centre back battle this season.

You can see all of Tom’s photos from the game HERE and in our full Flickr slideshow below: