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Posted by
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July 28, 2016 |
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VANCOUVER, B.C - Blas Perez isn't quite sure what kind of fan reaction he will get on Sunday when the Whitecaps striker returns to Frisco, Texas to take on his former club FC Dallas. Vancouver will be in for a tough challenge facing the table toppers in Major League Soccer. Perez is looking forward to the match and would love to find the back of the net, but he also admits that picking up a win is most important.
"First, I'm happy to come (back) to Dallas, it's a special game for me. I want to score for this game, we need the game, we need to win the game. We need points. We have a good team to win this game."
The 35 year-old goal poacher was a fan favourite with FC Dallas and loathed by opponents during his four seasons 'Deep in the Heart of Texas'. He scored 36 goals and compiled 14 assists in 97 career MLS regular season fixtures for FC Dallas. While fans from both sides might be expecting to see some magic from Perez, he's not feeling the pressure of having to put on a show at Toyota Stadium.
"No, No need to show them. It's special for the people, fans, for the Panamanian people that come to the stadium. They come to see me, but for me it's normal."
While a strong Panamanian contingent could be on hand for the match, Perez's family will not be in attendance. They will be back home in Panama. Perez is hopeful that they will be able to tune in.
The Whitecaps have never won a match in Frisco, nor have they nicked a point off FC Dallas. An 0-7-0 record and the return of SuperRaton should provide ample motivation for the visitors. Going up against the hot Texas heat will be difficult, but it could also provide a comfort level for Vancouver's Central and South American laden roster. You might even seen a player like Perez thrive under intense conditions.
"Dallas is very very hot now", said Perez. "We need to have good preparation, hydrate, good food, rest."
Perez will be looking for his third goal in a Vancouver Whitecaps kit and there is a good chance he will earn a start. Veteran left-back Jordan Harvey already knows who will give the pre-match team talk.
"I'm sure he'll be giving the team talk, he's a warrior, man and I'm glad he's on our side this time going in."
Vancouver will look to improve on an 8-8-6 record and bounce back from a nil-nil draw in Houston at the weekend. It's crucial that Carl Robinson's lads earn a result in Frisco. A CONCACAF Champions League away match in Trinidad & Tobago against Central FC and a trip to Colorado await the Caps next week.
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