Match Report Card: Whitecaps - LA Galaxy

The Vancouver Whitecaps were able to scratch out a 2-2 draw against the LA Galaxy earning only one of the last nine possible points. If you wish to read more about what happened in the game, you can check out the game review here. I have pulled out my red pen and I will be focusing on individual performances.

Darren Mattocks (A): The young Jamaican has slowly but surely quieted his detractors (including me) with his recent performances. A lot has been said about his improved attitude and work rate on the field and yesterday was another step in the right direction. With a goal and an assist he deservedly won the title of Man of the Match. He was able to take advantage of his athleticism to press up high and track back and support his teammates when needed. What does he need to take his game to the next level? He needs to improve his finishing and become a more consistent goal-scorer.

Kekuta Manneh (A-): Wonderboy Kekuta Manneh did it again. Coming off the bench he revolutionized the Whitecaps attack and put the Galaxy defensive line on their back foot. Yes it is true that he sometimes seems to trip over his own feet but his youthful exuberance and daring will to take the game to the opposite team is a breath of fresh air. Also, that beautifully struck ball to save the day (and a point) wasn't bad either.

Steven Beitashour (B+): At half time I tweeted that the first 45 minutes may have been the best showing for the Iranian international in a Whitecaps jersey. Beitashour is another player who is slowly improving week over week. He was not only solid defensively but he is starting to push forward and send in dangerous crosses that will eventually find someone who is able to put them away.

Erik Hurtado (B): Erik Hurtado has received his fair share of criticism during his tenure with the Whitecaps. His lack of finesse and heavy first touch has earned him the nickname of "Erik Flintstone" (ok, it might be just me). However, since pre-season Hurtado has shown flashes of improvement. Robinson gave him around 25 minutes and he showed that his speed can cause issues for opposing defenders.

David Ousted (B): While some have pointed out that the Danish goalkeeper could have done a little more on the goals that the Whitecaps conceded in the past two games, I disagree with that assessment and up the ante by saying that Ousted is the reason both games have been so close for Vancouver. Towards the end of the game on Saturday Ousted had two crucial saves that denied the Galaxy a third, winning goal.

Gershon Koffie (C): I also tweeted at halftime that Koffie had been on the pitch 45 minutes too many. While he picked up his game noticeably in the second half once he was paired up with Matias Laba in the defensive midfielder role, the Ghanaian midfielder was dispossessed of the ball with ease, missed many passes, and looked out of position at times.

Russell Teibert (C-): It is a shame that Russell had a bad showing yesterday especially after being, in my opinion, the best Whitecap the previous week. It seems that the change in position from defensive midfielder to the position at the right of the diamond did not help the Canadian display his talents and full capabilities. The result was a substitution during halftime for Kekuta Manneh.

I would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section.