Whitecaps’ MVP goalkeeper Jay Nolly didn’t practice Saturday, causing some consternation among the fans. But the 28-year-old, who was receiving treatment for a leg injury suffered late in Thursday’s first half, said he’d be ready to go today. Head coach Teitur Thordarson called it «a precaution» to keep Nolly off the field. «We didn’t want to take the risk of him getting injured,» he said.
2 Bench depth could be the key
Puerto Rico Islanders’ coach Colin Clarke said he doesn ‘t think the travel will be a factor. Thordarson said he was focused on finding his best starting XI.
But given that these teams played Thursday, in Puerto Rico, it’s hard not to wonder what kind of role the benches will play in this one.
Vancouver’s depth could serve them well.
3 Big money, small minutes
Salaries won’t be made available until the Caps transition into Major League Soccer, but Swiss Super Lea gue signing Davide Chiumiento is surely the highest-paid player on this team. Which, at the very least, makes it interesting he’s struggling to find minutes — 40 minutes in three playoff games off the bench. «His time will come,» said Thordarson.
