VANCOUVER — Yohei Takaoka is no stranger to a good derby.

The Vancouver Whitecaps goalkeeper has even committed what some fans consider to be a grave taboo — moving from one team to its rival.

Takaoka grew up in Japan, playing for one of Yokohama’s local clubs, but when he turned pro, it was the villains across town who offered him a contract. He still vividly remembers the heated atmosphere that permeated games between the two sides.