Brian White is rewriting the history books of Vancouver Whitecaps in the football club’s 50th year

VANCOUVER – As the Vancouver Whitecaps celebrate half a century of football history, Brian White has carved out a place in the club’s record book.

Last Saturday, the New Jersey native scored in the 15th minute of the 1-1 road draw against the New York Red Bulls, the club that traded White to Vancouver on June 2, 2021.

The goal was the striker’s 44th for the Whitecaps in all competitions, moving him ahead of Camilo Sanvezzo as the club’s top scorer in the Major League Soccer era.

“I was very happy for him because he did it in his hometown, in front of his family and friends, and even against his former team, who maybe didn’t believe in him much, so they traded him,” said Whitecaps coach Vanni . Sartini. “Maybe that could have even put a little extra spice into the game.”

White has been a consistent producer since arriving in Vancouver. This year, the Whitecaps (5-2-2) are averaging two goals per game through their first nine games. White leads the way in both goals (five) and shots (19).

“I think I’ve always been confident in how I can play and how I can perform,” White said. “It’s just a matter of being fit, being healthy and being in a good place mentally. I think I’m in that place, so hopefully I can continue to work hard for the team and produce goals, assists and good performances.”

White will carry a four-game scoring streak into Saturday’s 50th anniversary match against Austin FC (4-3-3), a team that has surrendered just one goal in its last three games.

“If we compare them to last year, they have become a much faster team,” Sartini said. “It allows them to defend a bit low, close to the goal, and then counter-attack.

“We have to be extremely focused when we have the ball to maintain our structure. We are always good tactically when we don’t have the ball. We also have to be very good tactically when we have the ball.” If we lose the ball they can be a threat.”

More than 30,000 fans are expected at BC Place on Saturday for a celebration of the club’s history dating back to the original Whitecaps of the North American Soccer League in 1974, through the Vancouver 86ers era at Burnaby’s Swangard Stadium, to the return of the Whitecaps in 2000, and on to the organization’s debut as the 17th franchise in Major League Soccer on March 19, 2011.

The Whitecaps are expecting more than 50,000 fans when Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF visits BC Place on May 25. But Sartini has seen home crowds double since the Whitecaps resumed play after the pandemic pause in 2021. This season, numbers have consistently topped 20,000, and the opportunity to set a new MLS-era attendance record on Saturday carries special meaning.

“It was difficult to get people back into the stadium,” Sartini said. “We have worked a lot, achieving good results, playing good football and trying to be as close to our fans as possible. And the response from our fans has been fantastic.

“The fans really love us. And with them behind us it won’t be easy, but it will be easier, trying to win.”

AUSTIN FC (4-3-3) AT VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC (5-2-2)

Saturday, 7:30 p.m., BC Place (Apple TV, TSN)

Humble BEGINNINGS – The Whitecaps’ first-ever match in the North American Soccer League was a 2-1 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes at Empire Stadium at the PNE Grounds on May 5, 1974.

CELEBRATING HISTORY — More than 110 alumni are expected to participate in Saturday’s pre-match ceremony honoring the club’s history. Other festivities include a street party. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 7:15 p.m. Further 50th anniversary theme nights are planned throughout the season.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2024.