Whitecaps FC vs LA Galaxy – BC Place Stadium – July 18, 2012
Before a sell out crowd, under clear blue skies of an open BC Place Stadium Whitecaps FC took on the visiting LA Galaxy. The status of superstar’s David Beckham, Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan and teammates made sure there was lots of attention on this match. With television and with extra media on hand, the 21,000 fans kept atmosphere in the stadium was alive. While Beckham was the thing that prompted them to buy the ticket, the fans were there to support the Whitecaps. The extra ticket sales was a great chance to add to the Whitecaps strong fan base as they came and saw some great football on the pitch.
The first half was dominated by the ‘caps as recent signings, as Barry Robson and Dane Richards
making their home debut as well new Designated Player was introduced to the hometown crowd. Gershon Koffie scored early to the delight the fans and ramp up the atmosphere even further, then when Robson scored a brilliant header to bring the ‘caps lead to 2 it was deafening. After the half, the Galaxy came back with new vigor and balanced the play more, hitting the woodwork a few times and testing Joe Cannon’s goalkeeping skills. Much to the delight and disappointment of the fans, Beckham scored a cracking goal in the 81st minute. Everyone was thrilled to witness the famous left foot in action but did not want to see the Whitecaps lead shrink. Then 5 minutes later air went out of the stadium as Jose Villareal brought the Galaxy
level at 2-2. As much as they fought back, Robson missing the net by inches, hitting the cross bar and forcing the Galaxy’s keeper to make a great save, the home side could not find the winning goal. However, few in the audience felt they didn’t get a full effort from Whitecaps and their moneys worth from a great night of soccer. Plus I’m sure a glimpse or two of a shirtless Beckham in person was worth the price of the ticket for some.