The Whitecaps faced Monterrey FC, soccer powerhouse, on Mar 5 at BC Place for round of 16 in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. With a late goal in the second half, the Whitecaps got themselves a ticket to travel south for a rematch.
The ‘Caps energy was high throughout the game. Not only was the team playing mostly at the O-zone but the atmosphere at BC Place allowed for the game to feel absolutely thrilling. The Southside Whitecaps fan section had drums and began the game with their own rendition of “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” changing the famous West Virginia line to “Vancouver mountain mamma.”
The fans' rowdiness absolutely kept the spirits high, even when Roberto de la Rosa from Monterrey scored at the 25th minute. One would expect the Mexican fans present to be as loud and cheerful, but not even a nation known for its love for soccer was a match for the Whitecaps fandom.
Captain Ryan Gauld seemed hungry for a goal, shooting ball after ball but unfortunately, they either flew above the net or were stopped by the Monterrey goalie. However, his attack and passionate demeanor did not go unnoticed since his pass served as the assist for the goal scored in the 86th minute by Balal Halmoudi.
The Whitecaps now have a journey south to the city of Torreón to face the Rayados once again on Mar 12. Monterrey coach Martín Demichelis mentioned the team is excited to play back at home. The ‘Caps will have to bring their A-game to Mexico but if they continue dominating the O-zone as they did in this game, they have a chance to rise above a city and football club that prides itself in living and breathing soccer.
Comments