Whitecaps announce exhibition friendly versus Sunderland AFC
Published on February 21, 2005 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Vancouver Whitecaps News Release
VANCOUVER, BC - The Vancouver Whitecaps FC, in conjunction with the BC Soccer Association, today announced the Whitecaps will play Sunderland AFC of the English Championship League on Saturday, July 16th at Swangard Stadium. Sunderland will embark on a three game west coast tour which will also include matches in Seattle and Portland.
"This is an incredible opportunity to bring a feature English club with a storied history to Vancouver," said Bob Lenarduzzi, Director of Soccer Operations. "It will allow our players a chance to receive some valuable experience, and our fans to see some top international stars."
Founded in 1879, Sunderland is one of England's most supported franchises. Their incredible history includes eight English First Division Championships and two FA Cups. Currently the Black Cats are in third place in the Championship League with an 18-6-9 record (60 points). The top two clubs qualify for a place in Premiership for the subsequent season, while teams' three to six go into a playoff to determine the last spot.
Sunderland's roster is highlighted by 21- year-old Irish scoring sensation, Stephen Elliott and veteran English striker, Marcus Stewart. In his first season in the Championship League Elliott has already amassed 13 goals, currently tied for twelfth in the league. Stewart has chipped in with 12 goals, which includes a recent hat-trick in Sunderland's 4-2 victory over Watford on February 12th.
Following Sunderland's match in Vancouver, the Black Cats head south to Seattle to play the Seattle Sounders on July 20th at Qwest Field. The final leg of the tour will see the English side take on the Portland Timbers on July 23rd at PGE Park.
Tickets for the July 16th match at Swangard Stadium are included in all Whitecaps full-season, half-season, and five-game ticket packages. Single game tickets will be available in early April. Whitecaps season tickets start at less than $6 per game. For more information please call 604.669.WAVE (9283) or visit us on the web at whitecapsfc.com.
USL First Division Stories from February 21, 2005
- Whitecaps announce exhibition friendly versus Sunderland AFC - Vancouver Whitecaps
- USL's Northwest trio to host Sunderland - USL-1
- Timbers intensify schedule with Galaxy, Sunderland matches - Portland Timbers
- Kickers Sure Up Defense for 2005 - Richmond Kickers
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