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GROWING PAINS, BUT GROWTH NONETHELESS

The Caps looked a much more cohesive side than the one that lost 3-2 to Minnesota United in the season openers for both teams at B.C. Place last week, though again it took some time for the team to settle in.

But once it did, the players stayed compact defensively, the majority of the chances against coming in the second half when they were playing more aggressively and vulnerable to Real’s counterattack.

Dos Santos was sure they would leave Rio Tinto with at least a point as the Caps ramped up the pressure in the second half, with centre back Doneil Henry coming close on a powerful header, and midfielder Inbeom Hwang unleashing some shots from distance that also were on target.

“It’s disappointing. We felt it was a game that we had at least one point from how we worked, how we showed up,” said Dos Santos. “There was a lot of very good moments in the first half, before the penalty … well, that ‘call’ in the box. I felt that the guys were always in the game.

“I believe in what we’re doing, I believe in these guys, and I feel if we continue growing, we’re going to be a very good team. I can’t ask (them) for more. They pushed, they tried … what can you ask more? It’s going to end up turning, I’m sure of that.”

INBEOM IS THE BOMB

The Whitecaps’ South Korean budding sensation Inbeom Hwang was easily the best player in Unity strip at Rio Tinto Stadium. Building on his strong second half last week, Hwang led the Caps in passes (63), touches (76), key passes (five — no other teammate had more than one) and was accurate on five of seven long balls.