Vancouver Whitecaps FC is undefeated after four matches, and have played damned entertaining soccer in exactly half of those games. Sure, the draw against Chivas USA on the road was disappointing, but let’s be honest — if we asked you if you’d be happy with eight of a possible twelve points to start the season, you’d have salivated all over us. And while we don’t have a drool fetish, exactly, let’s just say we’re damned happy with the start to the 2014 MLS season.
Jordan Harvey and Kenny Miller scored for the homeside, putting home the first two goals Houston has conceded this season.
Darren Mattocks continued his tradition of coming this close. Methinks he spent too much of the off-season watching Canucks games. He had one glorious chance on a short cross in the first half; he got the ball in perfect position, at the top of the six-yard box just shy of the left post. He one-timed his volley, his eyes on the back of the net, his form perfect as he levelled his foot at the incoming pass. The result? So high over the crossbar the ball hasn’t come down four days later. Mattocks is working hard, at least — goals will come, one assumes — but so far he’s had to settle for close calls and a sweet assist on Kekuta Manneh’s goal against those goats in Los Angeles.
Below, thar be pictures. (I’ll add more as I get round to the editing.)
By the way, David Horst, a Houston defender who features in this photo gallery, at one point during the game, wiped out a Whitecaps forward two metres from the right sideline, then took umbrage when the whistle blew. He stood inches away from the linesman, screaming over and over, “WHAT IS THE FUCKING CALL!” That’s right, ladies. He’s a charmer.
Darren Mattocks laments a missed chance during the first half. Buddy needs a lucky bounce, and own goal, something. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
Houston defender Corey Ashe crosses the ball during a 2-1 loss to the Whitecaps FC. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
David Horst is 6’4″, a mountain of muscle meat, and leads with his elbows — it’s a wonder of MLS refereeing how he gets out of any given game without a yellow card. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
Jordan Harvey punts home his first of the 2014 season after a wonderful pass off the head of teammate Andy O’Brien. If anyone has ever seen Harvey with a single hair out of place, please contact security. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
Is it just me, or does Kenny Miller look like he’s waving from the lido deck of a cruise ship? That’s right. Lido. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.