The Whitecaps returned home to BC Place on Saturday, where they faced the Houston Dynamo after earning successive away draws with Chivas and New England.
Perfect at home, undefeated on the road, Vancouver now sits fourth in the league, trailing Real Salt Lake by virtue of the third tiebreaker.
On a night to honour the contributions of Lee Young-Pyo, it was fitting that a full-back scored the game's first goal. Jordan Harvey took a direct run at goal after fellow centre-back Andy O'Brien headed a cross towards the penalty spot.
Darren Mattocks continued his improved form, staying on side, tracking back, and creating chances for himself and others. One of them yielded a penalty kick, which designated player Kenny Miller buried not once, but twice.
Darren Mattocks had another fine performance against the Houston Dynamo at BC Place on 29 March 2014.
Mattocks entered the penalty area before Miller had kicked the ball, which meant that the penalty had to be retaken, so there is still room for improvement. But we can hardly complain about the enthusiasm and effort he's been putting in in game and in training.
Of course, Houston did not want to suffer the humiliation that New York had experienced when the Whitecaps last played at home. They made some adjustments, bringing on bigger, stronger players, while curiously, Carl Robinson did the opposite.
And despite the Dynamo's advantage in the air, the skill of Vancouver won out. They conceded a late goal, but never looked like conceding a second. With the notable exception of a five minute period, Vancouver maintained possession for the last half hour.
The Whitecaps have a 2:00 PM midweek friendly against FC Edmonton at Thunderbird Stadium on Tuesday, and then welcome Colorado Rapids SC to BC Place on Saturday at 3:30 PM. Click here to open our fullscreen slideshow.
