The Vancouver Whitecaps (7W-2L-8D) will try to extend their unbeaten streak to 10 games when they host the Portland Timbers (6W-5L-5D) in USSF D-2 League play Thursday night at Swangard Stadium.

The match is the third of a four-game home-stand for the Whitecaps, who currently lead the NASL Conference and are unbeaten on home turf this season.

Vancouver will try to capture their first win of the season against their Pacific Northwest rivals. The two clubs will continue their rivalry next year, as both teams are headed for the MLS in 2011.

The Whitecaps unleashed their offence last Wednesday against Miami FC claiming a 3-1 victory. It was the first time the ‘Caps scored more than two goals this season in a single match.

Blake Wagner's hat-trick was the difference in the game, and he will look to build off his offensive break-out against the Timbers.

Thursday's match is the third of the season between Vancouver and Portland. The Whitecaps suffered a late 2-1 defeat on April 29 and played to a 0-0 draw on July 3.

The Timbers roll into Vancouver sitting fourth in the USL Conference. Portland is starting a four-match road trip after an extended break from action.

The Oregon-based club kept sharp during their break, playing two friendly matches, defeating Mexico's Club Deportivo Atlas 4-2 in a penalty shootout.

The Timbers also hosted the English Premier League club, Manchester City on July 17 and suffered a 3-0 loss. Manchester visited Portland as part of the club's pre-season tour of the United States.

Thursday's match marks the 64th all-time meeting between Portland and Vancouver. Vancouver hold the all-time record edge with 32 wins, 22 losses and nine draws against the Timbers.

The two clubs will battle once more this season when the ‘Caps host Portland in their final regular season match on Saturday, October 2.

Notes: The ‘Caps are still without Mouloud Akloul who has been recovering from an ankle fracture he sustained in April…Midfielders Ricardo Sanchez and Jonny Steele were traded to the FC Tampa Bay Rowdies for future considerations earlier this week.