MLS REGULAR SEASON..... DRAWING TO A CLOSE

MLS: VANCOUVER WHITECAPS - SEATTLE SOUNDERS

I am keen on the draw in this match up between two west Coast rivals batlling for post season places. Seattle are secure in fourth 12 points and with a game in hand of sixth placed FC Dallas ( top five make the playoffs), but every point is vital ,as they jostle for a stronger finishing position, a top three place means avoiding the extra game ( "play in" round.... which is a very stupid name), like a wildcard game if you are familiar with the NFL. The Sounders are currently a point behind both Galaxy and Real SL, currently in second and third, having played a game less and so avoiding defeat tonight will be a priority and a point very valuable.

Whitecaps had lost five in a row, before stopping the rot with a 2-2 draw against poor traveller Colorado last week, they are currently in that desired fifth place with a two point edge over FC Dallas who travel to Conference leaders San Jose later tonight, so a point would proably be seen as one gained, rather than two lost. Fourth spot is beyond them, so their only aim is to stay ahead of Dallas, they have woeful Chivas and Portland to host after this, so a point tonight should suffice.

Hosts are without suspended speedy right winger Dane Richards ( 26-3-2 for Red Bulls and Whitecaps). Offensively,  the Sounders might be boosted by the return of Mauro Rosales( 22-2-11) who sets up so many of their chances, but this is not yet confirmed, they will also give late tests to central defender Patrick Ianni (16-1-1) and German midfielder Christian Tiffert (7-0-2) . The visitors have already drawn eight of their 15 road games and another would help both tonight. 1.25 units Vancouver-Seattle draw 3.30 +... there is some 3.40 around , 3.44 with Pinnacle.

Good Luck.

Contact: gowi8@btinternet.com