Game Thread: Earthquakes look to break winless slide with visit to expansion Vancouver Whitecaps

After enjoying the weekend off, the San Jose Earthquakes get back to business with a visit to the Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Both teams are riding long winless streaks in MLS play — five games for the Quakes and eight games for the Whitecaps. Somebody has to win, right? Having said that, wouldn't it just be something if tonight's match ended in a draw.

The Earthquakes crawl out of the cellar of the Western Conference standings with a win at Empire Field tonight. Given the way the 'Caps defend, and with the cadre of big physical players head coach Frank Yallop is looking to start against Vancouver, a victory is not out of the question. Factor in that this is an expansion side, and the Quakes will want to get maximum points again on the road — something they did well at Portland in a U.S. Open Cup qualifying victory last week and in a league match at FC Dallas in week #2 of the regular season.

Head coach Frank Yallop promises some changes — just slight this time — from the starting line-up that beat the Timbers 1-0 last week. With the defense coming up strong, it will be up to the revamped offense to lead the Earthquakes tonight against Vancouver.

Chris Wondolowski      Steven Lenhart

Ryan Johnson                                    Scott Sealy

Sam Cronin       Brad Ring

Ramiro Corrales   Bobby Burling   Ike Opara   Steven Beitashour

Jon Busch

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