• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

Five more playoff spots were chewed up heading into the final week. Now it’s one spot left for four teams, making this whole 10-club postseason expansion look genius. Even if a mix of the hardcore fans and casual fans are now treating the MLS Cup as the “League/Carling Cup” of the U.S., it’s still an exciting race to watch. Essentially, in this power ranking list, your club either stayed in the same place or dramatically went up or down the ladder.


1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 2
Result: W 1–0 vs. CHV
Last Five: W-W-W-L-W

With a ever so critical Champions League group stage finale this week, as well as the MLS Cup Playoffs brewing, Los Angeles seemed to have figured out the attacking combo without Robbie Keane. Also, Adam Cristman, he’ll give MLS fans cheering the Galaxy this coming CCL game major headaches.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 1
Result: W 2–1 vs. SJ
Last Five: W-L-W-W-W

This is tough. In practically any other MLS season, Seattle would be leaps and bounds the strongest club in the league and the clear-cut Supporters Shield winner. However, it just so happens that the team is playing in a day and age where the Galaxy have assembled easily one of the strongest MLS squads to ever grace the pitch.

3. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 3
Result: W 2–0 vs. NY
Last Five: L-T-W-T-W

A regular season turnaround has been complete for Vermes and Co. Sporting has not only clinched a playoff berth, but have become a possessive, attacking side that looks to be the heavyweights of the murky Eastern Conference. It may not be saying a whole lot given, FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake and their capabilities, but Sporting is playing much better form-wise than the two.

4. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 5
Result: W 2–0 @ POR
Last Five: T-W-W-T-W

Houston finally managed to get road win number two on the season. And, what a great time to do so. A clutch performance like that, in a hostile Jeld-Wen, should be an early sign that Houston might make a stab at the Eastern Conference final.

5. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 4
Result: T 0–0 @ COL
Last Five: L-L-L-L-T

By now, everyone should expect Salt Lake to be shaving points in order to earn an easy route to the finals. Though, I cannot help but think the extra play-in match will come to haunt Salt Lake in the Conference Semifinals, should they win their play-in match, something that the American soccer blogosphere has already unanimously assumed.

6. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 7
Result: T 1–1 @ HOU (L 0–2 @ SEA in the U.S. Open Cup)
Last Five: W-W-T-L-W

Let’s forget the fluke offsides drama for a moment and appreciate what Frank Klopas has done. In the middle of the Chicago campaign, he took the helm as interim coach and transformed this side from being one of the league’s worst to being a mid-table club knocking heavily on the door for the playoffs. Their unbelievable rally against D.C. in injury time proved just that. However, this surge, sadly, looks to be too little, too late. Their form though, replicates that of a team that has had a postseason berth for awhile.

7. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 12
Result: W 2–1 @ CHI; W 2–0 vs. VAN
Last Five: L-L-L-W-W

After causing a great bit of scare these past few weeks, the Hoops snap out of their swoon, and earn a well-deserve victory in Chicago at home to Vancouver. Given Dallas’ calliber, something to this level should have been expected. Especially the 2–0 win at home to the ‘Caps.

8. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 6
Result: W 3–2 vs. DC; T 1–1 @ CHV
Last Five: T-W-T-W-T

Getting a home draw to Toronto might have gotten the Union into the playoffs, but getting a home draw to Toronto might not be a sign of this side going far in the playoffs. Completely missing out on a top spot out East, Nowak’s facelift Philly side might have to face RSL or Dallas in the playoffs, should the dominoes fall that way.

9. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 13
Result: W 3–0 @ NE
Last Five: L-L-L-W-W

Joining the surge of Eastern Conference clubs to earn postseason berths, Andres Mendoza made a powerful statement showing he’s a rightful successor of Barros Schelloto, and worthy of the DP tag. Being one of the few surprises of the 2011, Columbus looks like they’ll unexpectedly retain their class as one of the Eastern elites for a few more seasons.

10. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 9
Result: T 0–0 vs. RSL
Last Five: L-L-T-W-T

Colorado has a long, odd history of being that under the radar team to either just make or just miss the playoffs. And despite being the “defending champs” that no one gives them credit for, the Rapids found themselves in that posistion again, in the playoffs, but not being convincing in terms of how deep they may or may not go. The same might as well apply to the Champions League, regardless of how they fair in making the quarterfinals or not.

11. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 8
Result: L 1–2 @ VAN; L 1–2 vs. CHI
Last Five: W-L-L-L-L

Every team in MLS this season has had their swoon and their rough patch. D.C., stuck in the U.S., just so happens to be hitting their’s as the worst possible time. Their gut-wrenching loss to Chicago, probably killed their postseason hopes for the fourth-consecutive year. Yes, they still have a frightening realistic chance of still making the playoffs, only if they win out their two-match home stand, but let’s be real: D.C. United and consecutive wins simply don’t mix.


12. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 11
Result: L 0–2 vs. KC
Last Five: L-W-T-W-L

Although New York got soundly beat by a much more organized Kansas City, the Thierry Henry ejection, the poor chemistry, and the under-confident defense just emphasize the likelihood that New York will not keep their cool and bow out of the playoffs, whether it’s to Portland, Chicago or their bitter Atlantic Cup rivals down I-95. If so, more changes will be need in New York than the amount of tweets and blogs claiming this is the biggest flop in American soccer history.

13. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 10
Result: W 1–0 @ VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Needing a victory for a playoff berth, at home, against Houston, who has the worst road record other than Vancouver, literally everything played in Portland favor. However, soccer isn’t played on paper, and in lieu of a inaugural berth in the playoffs, Portland now has to do the same task as D.C. United to have a shot. Problem? Their final two matches are on the road.

14. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 15
Result: T 1–1 @ PHI
Last Five: W-W-L-T-T

While TFC fans are easily disgruntled by another year of playoff failure, the Reds are on the cusp of Champions League knockout play. To casual fans that means nothing too special since it’s not good ‘ol North American playoffs, but to hardcore fans, that alone might be a lot more special than a postseason berth, as well as give the supporters optimism about 2012 as being more than just a team that could scrape into the playoffs.

15. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: L 1–2 @ SEA
Last Five: T-T-T-W-L

On the bright side, there is a very potent chance that Chris Wondolowski actually wins the MLS Golden Boot for the second consecutive year. The stinging feeling has to be the inability San Jose had on closing out an incredible road victory against their Heritage Cup rivals.

16. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1–1 vs. PHI
Last Five: L-T-W-T-L

If we annotate this “SuperClasico” or “L.A. Derby” matchup, the Goats were pretty damn lucky not to be outright embarrassed by the reserve attack, who had shot after shot kiss or skim the pipes. Things look better for Chivas USA version 2011 than 2010, but whether or not they can be a playoff contender come 2012 is still in doubt.

17. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: W 2–1 vs. DC; L 1–2 @ FCD
Last Five: T-L-L-W-L

Unable to capture a road victory this season (okay, the New York match was a bit screwy), that has to be somewhat of a priority going into the ‘Caps second year in their return to top-tier soccer.

18. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 17
Result: L 0–3 vs. CLB
Last Five: L-L-L-L-L

This easily has to be the ultimate nadir for New England, not just on the field, but off as well. Poor crowds, poor marketing, and an owner that simply hates the idea of trying to improve the the club in any shape, way, or form. In terms of fixing the team ON the field though, get a new back line, and let the midfield and offense gel.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

For the last month and a half, both Seattle and Los Angeles have occupied the top two spots of the Power Rankings ladder. And for the first time since July 26 (Week 19) a club has dethroned the Galaxy from the top of the rankings, and yes, like last time, this time it is Seattle.

1. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: W 2–1 @ NE (W 2–0 vs. CHI in the U.S. Open Cup; T 2–2 @ COM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-L-W-W-W

Seattle, or should we say Three-attle, may not have the record to capture the Supporters’ Shield from LA, but their three-peat Open Cup title, and thus far being the only MLS side in the Champions League to qualify for the quarterfinals speaks enough of their depth during excruciating travel, and their resiliency. Next on the agenda: the MLS Cup, and Seattle looks to be mighty heavy favorites.

2. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: W 2–1 vs. RSL; L 0–2 @ NY (W 2–1 @ MOR in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-T-W-W-L

Really, the mulligan of the week has to be LA traveling to New York and burning out in a forgettable 2–0 loss. Mind that it was only the Galaxy’s fourth loss in league play, and that the Shield looks set to remain in SoCal for a second consecutive season.

3. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 6
Result: W 2–1 vs. CLB; T 1–1 @ SJ
Last Five: L-T-T-W-T

Earning results, even if they’re ugly is, well, the best way to earn your way to an MLS Cup title. And, given the fact mid-table, or upper-mid table clubs have recently found their way to reaching the final, I’m going out to say the Wizards are likely to reach the MLS Cup final.

4. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 3
Result: L 1–2 @ LA
Last Five: W-W-L-L-L

Their three-match slide may be excusable, but the fact is the Galaxy are a team with much depth like Salt Lake. The difference? The Galaxy are juggling their way through Champions League unlike Salt Lake.

5. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 5
Result: T 1–1 vs. CHI
Last Five: L-T-W-W-T

Houston, nice recovery from last year. The voids of past Dynamo greats such as Stuart Holden and Ricardo Clark have been (nearly) filled. Unless a tragic disaster concludes the season, the Dynamo look set to stake claims on a playoff spot. Maybe even a top three spot in the Conference.

6. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 9
Result: W 3–2 vs. DC; T 1–1 @ CHV
Last Five: T-W-T-W-T

It’s thrilling victories like their home victory to D.C. United that are badly needed in the MLS Cup Playoffs, even the same for Chivas USA. The flare and attacking mindset were all there for the Union. The defense...

7. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 10
Result: T 1–1 @ HOU (L 0–2 @ SEA in the U.S. Open Cup)
Last Five: W-L-W-W-T

One of the hottest teams in the east right now is...Chicago?! Yes, the parity-plagued, mediocre east has the Fire living up to their name. The playoffs are still a bit of a stretch, but if they field reserves at Houston and draw, and keep up their sudden splurge of victories, the Fire might find their way into the wildcard round...against all odds.

8. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 4
Result: L 2–3 @ PHI; L 1–2 @ CLB
Last Five: W-T-W-L-L

On a two-match road swing against Conference foes, we learned why one does not put Joseph Ngwenya in the rotation. In their first losing streak since April, D.C. blew some matches in hand to peak the conference. With a three-match home stand to close out the season, United look in a good posistion still to make the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

9. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 12
Result: W 1–0 vs. FCD (W 3–1 @ MET in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-L-L-T-W

Colorado managed to end their winless streak in an 2010 MLS Cup final rematch. Not only that, the Rapids made head coach Gary Smith look like a depth genius as they stormed the turf in El Salvador.

10. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 8
Result: W 1–0 @ VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

The Timbers grabbed a critical three points on the road to their meager I-5 rivals, but lacking matches in hand, might cause these scrappy Timbers to narrowly miss out on the postseason.

11. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 11
Result: T 1–1 @ TOR; W 2–0 vs. LA
Last Five: W-L-W-T-W

After an uninspiring performance that was saved by a wicked Thierry Henry strike, the Red Bulls plucked apart a makeshift Galaxy squad, and in sheer style. The only thing holding them back from turning it into a complete rout was that little thing called the crossbar.

12. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 7
Result: L 0–1 @ COL (L 3–5 @ TAU in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-L-L-L-L

Extending out too much has really hurt Dallas, and now they’re falling off the map. They’ll likely still make the playoffs, but it will complete their crashing and burning process.

13. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 15
Result: L 1–2 @ SKC; W 2–1 vs. DCU
Last Five: L-T-L-L-W

While their odds to win the Eastern Conference might be damaged, their winless streak finally came to an end with a hardworking rally, and a Eddie Gavin header, to defeat red-hot D.C. United.

14. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 13
Result: T 1–1 vs. PHI
Last Five: L-L-L-T-W

Angel’s second half strike against Philly was enough to salvage a point, but ultimately, the match along with the fate of other league matches mathematically ended Chivas’ postseason hopes. The good news, they look to have a collection of players and management that could give the Goats a competitive edge for at least next year.

15. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1–1 vs. NY (T 1–1 vs. UNAM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-W-W-L-T

Two late draws at home might have punctured their odds to get into the Champions League knockout round, as well as officially knocked the Reds out of the MLS Cup Playoffs, breaking the record for the most consecutive seasons failing to qualify for the playoffs. (San Jose held the old record from 1997–2001).

16. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: T 1–1 vs. SKC
Last Five: W-L-T-T-T

Now, it’s official; the ‘quakes are out of the playoffs. San Jose fans might just want Yallop to be the first person to be cleaned out of house.

17. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 17
Result: L 1–2 vs. SEA
Last Five: T-W-L-L-L

New England is hopelessly sitting in the same posistion D.C. United was in this time last year. Miserable campaign, losing matches left and right, and a young phenom becoming a distraction from the eyesore of a poorly organized back line.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: L 0–1 vs. POR
Last Five: L-W-T-L-L

On the brighter end of things, the Whitecaps have a beautiful, domed stadium to call home. Doesn’t suit up well with a swiss cheese defense, and a loss to a Cascadian rival.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

What I have come to notice at this point in the season is that between the top three MLS clubs and the bottom three MLS clubs, the whole field is level pegging. It’s a mucky, ugly, parity-ridden fiasco that will make the playoff hunt exciting for the few onlookers, and irritating for a majority of fans, mostly off their team’s inconsistency.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: W 1–0 @ CLB (L 0–1 vs. ALA in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-W-T-W-W

Likely resting starters ahead of their critical Champions League matchup, the reserve-led Galaxy took it to the Crew, and miraculously, came out on top. If that reveals the immense depth of the Galaxy, I’m not sure what does. The Shield looks set to remain in Los Angeles for another year.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 3
Result: W 3–1 @ VAN (L 0–1 vs. HER in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

If any team maintains a solid chance of stealing the Shield out of LA, it is the Sounders, who have already snagged the Cascadia Cup out of Vancouver, which is now southbound of the I-5 corridor as we speak. A pair of world-class goals from Fredy Montero set the atmosphere in Empire Fire, causing Sounders fans to clearly out-cheer Caps fans.

3. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 2
Result: W 3–1 @ NY; L 1–4 @ DCU
Last Five: W-W-W-W-L

Jason Kries took a huge gamble playing a mix of starters and reserves against D.C. United, maybe in vague hope it could replicate the same way against New England. Well, as Ben Olsen indirectly said, he and the team might have felt insulted by that, and the scoreline shows: RSL was horrendously torn apart in the nation’s capital upon impressively routing the Black-and-Red’s Atlantic Cup rivals.

4. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 8
Result: T 2–2 vs. CHV; W 4–1 vs. RSL
Last Five: L-W-L-T-W

The issues I would have addressed regarding closing out matches are largely diminished with D.C. United’s explosive victory over a mix A/B Salt Lake side that largely looked in awe at the incredible, wicked strikes by Dwayne De Rosario that just somehow found the net, with it scoring the fastest hat trick in MLS history. De Rosario is now the forefront leader in the Golden Boot race, and easily should be in the talks of an MVP candidate.

5. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 7
Result: W 1–0 @ FCD
Last Five: L-L-T-W-W

Oddly taking the lead in the Eastern Conference, I honestly can only write off their late victory against Dallas as an outright fluke. Not to take any credit away with their ability to score, but let’s face it, had things gone in favor of Dallas in terms of their shots being slightly on frame, Houston would be hitting a brutal reality check.

6. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 4
Result: T 1–1 vs. PHI
Last Five: L-T-W-L-T

Hm. Taking the lead, but relinquishing it and earning a draw. Does this sound familiar. If so, you are right! Kansas grabs the lead, and then lets it go, costing them a chance at holding their already tentative lead in the Eastern Conference.

7. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 5
Result: L 0–1 vs. HOU (L 0–2 vs. UNAM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-W-L-L-L

Things could have not gotten any more unlucky for Dallas, as shot after shot, after shot continually smacked the frame of the goal. Unfortunately, it resulted in Dallas being on the wrong end of the scoreboard. Despite the misfortunes, the Hoops look to be in a keen posistion to earn an easy route through the wildcards and Eastern bracket. That might be their plan.

8. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 6
Result: T 1–1 vs. SJ; L 0–2 @ NY
Last Five: W-T-W-T-L

Hosting San Jose and playing at New York, the Timbers looked destined to gather four points and hover in a good standing playoff position. Unfortunately, bad defensive communication and flat play in New York, likely from the cross-country trip; absolutely ruined their push for the playoffs. Still, this is MLS. It is a forgiving league.

9. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 12
Result: T 1–1 @ SKC
Last Five: L-T-T-W-T

Earning a decisive, inter-conference road draw against Sporting, the Union find themselves two points shy of tops in the East, with two matches in hand. Additionally, the Union could gain some ground and separate themselves from the pack if they take full advantage of their budding rivals south on the I-95 corridor.

10. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 13
Result: W 3-2 vs. NE
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

Chicago is taking advantage of playing the league’s weaker clubs, and ascending in total points. However, given the fact that so many Eastern Conference bubble teams also grabbed victories, their chances to make a rather unanticipated playoff berth look further farfetched.

11. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 14
Result: L 1–3 vs. RSL, W 2–0 vs. POR
Last Five: T-T-W-L-W

There is one simple solution of Hans Backe wants New York to not only qualify for the playoffs, but win the East. That is to bench Marquez. In their last two matches without the Mexican international, the Red Bulls have scored seven times, and have yet to concede a goal. Talk about coincidence! Also, my personal opinion, after Tim Ream arguably played his worst MLS match ever, Ream played possibly is best MLS match the following evening.

12. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 9
Result: T 1–1 vs. SJ (L 1–2 vs. RES in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-L-L-L-T

If you haven’t heard, the Rapids are tanking it in the Champions League, because they want to focus on a subordinate competition known as the MLS Cup Playoffs. If you ask me, they’re tanking it in the Champions League, because they are simply lacking this thing I call talent. And evidently, the “defending (playoff) champions” look to be in grave danger of missing out on the playoffs with this laughable form.

13. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 15
Result: T 2–2 @ DCU; W 3–0 vs. TOR
Last Five: L-L-L-T-W

Quite honestly, when the Goats trailed 2–0 to D.C. United midway through the second, I would have never anticipated a rally to steal two points, culminating with a dominating 3–0 thrashing of Toronto. And who would have guess Juan Pablo Angel was the cog responsible for that?

14. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 10
Result: L 0–3 @ CHV (W 1–0 vs. TAU in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-T-W-W-L

Toronto probably punctured their final tire in trying to make the postseason chase. Not that that’s anything terribly unfamiliar with the Reds. The recent home form, their Trillium Cup title, and their serious threat of advancing past Group Stage in the Champions League should give the Red Patch Boys something to (finally) look forward to, for once, come next year.


15. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 11
Result: L 0–1 vs. LA
Last Five: W-L-L-T-L

Against all odds, Columbus is benefitting undoubtedly from Eastern mediocrity. But, when one realizes that being the top of the East is like being upper-mid table, it shows. As it did when the Crew hosted a second-tier LA Galaxy side, and lost in ugly style. Will be awhile before we see a crowd like that again in Crew Stadium...


16. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 18
Result: T 1–1 SJ; T 1–1 @ COL
Last Five: T-W-L-T-T

With the playoff hopes all but mathematically impossible, the ‘Quakes took it to the Rose City and the Mile High City to play spoils to two teams in the muck of the postseason chase.

17. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 16
Result: L 2–3 @ CHI
Last Five: L-T-W-L-L

Poor Ryan Guy. The goalscorer of two goals very late in stoppage time, nearly allowed the Revs to heartbreak the Fire. Unfortunately the rally was just too little, and way too late, and well, the Revs tack on another loss. With it, the Revs will not be going to the playoffs for two straight seasons. First time since 1999.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 17
Result: L 1–3 vs. SEA
Last Five: L-W-T-L-L

The playoffs already out of sight, the ‘Caps hosted their Cascadian rivals in a match merely for pride and the ability to retain the Cascadia Cup. Neither of the two were accomplished in front of their fans. In fact the Sounders fans eclipsing the noise of Caps fans said it all: the disparity between the elite and non-elite is far larger than what would be liked. Now it’s just about playing for the supporters in the newly renovated BC Place.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

As the mid table teams race for the playoff berth, the upper table teams race for the Shield, and as the league claims that the bottom table teams are still in the playoff race, this week said a lot about what teams will likely see the MLS Cup Playoffs. Thanks to the myriad amount of matches in hand, and absolute lack of equilibrium in matches played, truly figuring out the table is a pain, and the teams could abruptly plummet or skyrocket the standings like a broken elevator.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: W 3–0 vs. VAN (L 1–2 @ MOR in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-W-W-T-W

If anyone doubted that the Galaxy would take the Shield seriously, and begin to rest players for the playoffs, well, this might prove otherwise. Upon a disheartening, and undeserving, road loss to Morelia, the Galaxy put the fluky outcome behind them, and trounced the league minnows, Vancouver, in clinical fashion. And with it, Mike Magee carves his name into being a fan-favorite, and Robbie Keane continues to live up to the DP tag, with no indications as of yet of burning out.

2. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 2
Result: W 1–0 vs. KC
Last Five: L-W-W-W-W

Salt Lake may have picked up their forth-straight victory, but the manner of winning it was hardly in the form of domination. A well serviced-free kick from Kyle Beckerman that eventually resulted in Nat Borchers’ well timed heading goal, was possibly, maybe the only, legitimate chance on frame. If Salt Lake wants to see the Shield and the Cup, victories cannot come in this type of fashion.

3. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 3
Result: W 3–0 vs. DCU (W 2–1 @ HER in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-W-W-L-W

In order to get a stubborn monkey of their back, which was beating D.C. United in their confines of the “Clink”, the Sounders lost a pivotal player, Mauro Rosales for an undisclosed period of time. But as we’ve seen with the absence of Zakuani, this Sounders squad has depth to deal without his presence for the time being.

4. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 6
Result: L 0–1 vs. RSL
Last Five: W-L-T-W-L

Rarely does a team travel on the road, lose, and move up two places in the Power Rankings. Not unless there is a solid claim of excuses to back it up. And to be honest, a one-goal defeat to Salt Lake, in Rio Tinto is nothing (an Eastern Conference) club should be ashamed of, and despite the loss, many fans can collectively agree Kansas City was the better team for the 90 minutes of play. Heck, their form lately has outpaced the two 2010 MLS Cup finalists.

5. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 4
Result: L 0–1 vs. NY (T 1–1 vs. TAU in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: T-L-W-L-L

No Brek Shea nor Marvin Chavez, and this electrifying FC Dallas side loses its flicker. Certainly drawing at home to the weakest team in your Champions League group nor losing at home to the heavily out of funk Red Bulls constitutes anything on par with Dallas’ standards. A rematch against Pumas, leading up to Texas Derby league match will determine if Dallas can keep in their foot in the Western Conference top three.

6. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 10
Result: W 3–0 vs. NE
Last Five: L-W-W-T-W

In their return season to the top tier of American soccer, the Timbers have developed a reputation of creating monstrous leads at home, and then puncturing them in a moment’s notice. Not since the LA match had they had a home victory in commanding style, and in a critical match to stay in the playoff chase. Their stance may not allow them to finish in the same regular season spot that the Sounders did in 2009, but they have the potential to go further than that squad.

7. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 9
Result: T 0–0 @ CLB; W 2–1 vs. SJ
Last Five: W-L-L-T-W

A gritty, well fought win for San Jose, has allowed the Orange Crush to sludge their way back into the muck that is the wildcard race, but, as I’ve said far too many times before...if they miss the postseason, it will be strictly blamed on road form.

8. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 7
Result: L 0–3 @ SEA
Last Five: W-T-L-W-L

Well, it looks like Pontius is going to be missed, and missed deeply in the nation’s capital. A mix of bad luck and lack of depth, has allowed the Eastern Conference to sigh in relief at United losing one of their matches in hand. Still, with a relatively sizable amount of winnable games remaining in the season, clinching a wildcard spot, even a direct bye into the conference semis is more than attainable for the injury-laden squad.

9. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 5
Result: L 1–2 @ TOR (L 1–4 vs. CSL in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-T-L-L-L

By far an uninspiring effort from the Rapids, the defending MLS Cup champions see themselves on a three game skid, and you can make four if you count their horrid loss at home to Santos Laguna in Champions League competition.

10. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 12
Result: W 2–1 vs. COL (L 0–4 vs. UNAM in the CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: W-L-T-W-W

Although, technically, Toronto is only six points away from postseason berth, they have played, by far, the most matches in the Eastern Conference. However, their form has nearly ousted every Eastern team, apart from maybe D.C. and Kansas City. While it might be a tad bit too late to make the postseason chase, don’t doubt there’s a real threat for Toronto to reach the quarterfinals of the Champions League, as well as vie for the Eastern Conference title come next year.

11. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 8
Result: T 0–0 vs. HOU; L 0–1 @ PHI
Last Five: W-L-L-T-L

Columbus has hit the form, that well, many of us were expecting when were pulling names out of a hat making MLS prediction last February. Yet they’re, somehow, floating on top in the crapshoot East. The way things are going, Columbus might see the playoffs through, for a fourth straight year, even without finishing with another win this season.

12. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 13
Result: W 1–0 vs. CLB
Last Five: T-L-T-T-W

Long-time out of their funk, the Union finally get a blessing from Sebestian Le Toux late in the second, and grab their first win at home against Columbus. The moral should greatly improve around the win, as they hover over Houston, New York and D.C. for the final conference semifinal berth out east.

13. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 15
Result: W 3-2 vs. CHV
Last Five: T-W-W-L-W

Chicago had some unfortunate turn of events to lose this one to swooning San Jose. Sean Johnson, for all he could do, had a superb night, saving a penalty and limiting Chris Wondolowski’s shooting spell to only a goal, where Johnson was simply milliseconds shy of saving. If anything really halted Chicago’s chances of potentially considering the playoffs, it was this loss. Really now, their focus will evidently turn towards the Open Cup final in three weeks.

14. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 18
Result: W 1–0 @ FCD
Last Five: T-L-T-T-W

An unexpected pairing created the Luke Rodgers and Juan Agudelo show before a more-than-modest crowd in Frisco, Texas. While it’s nice to say the Red Bulls are in the final playoff spot, the mighty “matches in hand” asterisk immediately follows. Whether or not they can build off this moment will depend if Rodgers and company can save New York from arguably the most embarrassing letdown in league history.

15. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 11
Result: L 2–3 @ CHI
Last Five: T-L-L-L-L

What has happened with this team? The Fraser-led squad looked determined to finally have some of their best success since the days of Preki, and they have chosen the worst possible time in the campaign to lose matches left and right. Apart from their loss to D.C., the worst thing about it is that their loses have been by the slimmest of margins. And, well, that’s all it needs.

16. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 14
Result: L 0–3 @ POR
Last Five: T-L-T-W-L

Through the course of arguably the worst season in Revs history, the club loses not in a winnable game, but in outright ugly fashion, getting spanked in Jeld-Wen to the upstart Timbers. While they’re not mathematically out of postseason contention, that’s probably the only thing that keeps them in the postseason race. Other than that, these final matches are simply playing for pride.

17. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 17
Result: L 0–3 @ LA
Last Five: L-L-L-W-L

Were there a few bursts of energy by the Whitecaps? Of course there were, and there were some decent appeals for penalty kicks, but, had that fallen in their favor, I still would have seen this side fallen on the losing side of the match. Several midfield roles are needed to be filled come 2012.

18. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: L 1–2 @ HOU
Last Five: L-L-T-W-L

From Stephenson’s goal early on, it seemed as if the ‘Quakes were poised to turn their hopes around. And then came Brad Davis and eventually Will Bruin to deliver a gut punch, and a sucker punch to the ‘Quakes. Since it’s MLS, and the playoff hopes never die until the last day, the only way the Quakes are not out of the playoffs is mathematically.

photo by Tim Bounds

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

1. Maryland
2. Connecticut
3. Akron
4. Creighton
5. UC Irvine
6. Louisville
7. UC Santa Barbara
8. Indiana
9. North Carolina
10. Central Florida
11. Boston College
12. Old Dominion
13. Penn State
14. Virginia
15. South Florida
16. West Virginia
17. Charlotte
18. Northern Illinois
19. Coastal Carolina
20. New Mexico
21. Bradley
22. Virginia Commonwealth
23. Brown
24. St. John’s
25. Notre Dame

On The Bubble: Washington, William & Mary, UCLA, Brown, SMU, East Tennessee State, Furman, Monmouth, Georgetown, Iona

In The Scope: Xavier, California, Colgate, Kentucky, UAB, Cal State Fullerton, Santa Clara, Michigan, Drake, Wright State,

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

Since there was little MLS action over Labor Day Weekend, I decided to hold off on the Power Rankings for a week before churning out a new list. It in itself, felt like a miniature vacation from league action, but it’s nice to return what will be an extremely heated playoff race, as well as a neck-and-neck Supporters’ Shield race.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: T 2-2 @ SKC, W 1-0 vs. COL
Last Five: L-W-W-T-W

With a month-and-a-half left to play, the defending regular season champions have already clinched a playoff spot. Seemingly fresh as ever, as well as the option to alternate Ricketts and Saunders, the Galaxy look in good posistion for winning the Shield with the largest point total ever, their Champions League group and the ever-illustrious MLS Cup.

2. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 5
Result: W 2-1 vs. PHI, W 2-1 @ SEA
Last Five: L-L-W-W-W

Starting with their road victory at Chivas, RSL seemingly have grabbed some lightning in a bottle, as they ascend in the Power Rankings, hot off a three-match winning streak. The club is playing their best since their invisibility during the Champions League last April. And no better time to. With no outside competition to focus upon, Real Salt Lake looks poised to either make the MLS Cup final or ruin the fun for the Galaxy and nab the Shield. Either or will gift the Royals with a Champions League berth, and bring more thrill, and even more hardware to the Crossroads of the West.

3. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: L 1-2 vs. RSL
Last Five: W-T-W-W-L

After a red hot August, Mauro Rosales, unexpectedly, came up cold in his penalty kick, and consequently, mixed with an own goal from Kasey Keller, the Sounders blow a golden chance to cement themselves into a guaranteed Western Conference playoff berth, not to mention, a pothole in their race for the Shield. With Champions League action this week and the U.S. Open Cup final not too far away, this is not the time for the Sounders to hit a swoon.

4. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 3
Result: L 0-2 @ NE
Last Five: L-T-L-W-L

Ever since the Hoops started off hot in Champions League action, they have had polar play in MLS and USOC action, coming up dry to the Sounders in Open Cup play, and being blanked by...New England, of all teams, in league play. Maybe it’s a soccer conspiracy theory, but perhaps it’s in Dallas plan to finish as a top wildcard seed and waltz their way to the MLS Cup final through the relatively easy Eastern Conference bracket.

5. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 6
Result: L 0-1 @ LA
Last Five: W-W-T-L-L

Personally, I believe that their two-matching losing streak is rather deceiving and has some justified excuses. First, the two road matches: Colorado got the bad luck of the draw having to play Chicago when they did, and on a night Chicago decided not to draw. Also, LA. Those two lets speak for themselves. Credit to Matt Pickens though for making several massive saves. So, they move up a spot, because lets face it. Colorado is likely better than any Eastern Conference team right now, except maybe D.C.

6. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 9
Result: T 2-2 vs. LA, W 3-0 vs. HOU
Last Five: W-W-L-T-W

Teal Bunbury is putting a neon light about himself, making himself stand out to Jurgen Klinnsmen. The two-goaled effort, along with a consolation strike from C.J. Sapong has thwarted Sporting atop the Eastern Conference through the virtue of goal differential. While Columbus and D.C. have matches in hand, Columbus’ slump in form, and D.C. only being able to draw level in points has made it very probable that Sporting can seek out a guaranteed Eastern Conference berth.


7. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 10
Result: W 3-0 @ CHV
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Mind all the stories about the major upsets in the league and all related buzz. Charlie Davies has turned some heads like no other. Prying himself back into the Golden Boot race, Davies, along with the noted help of Chris Pontius, collectively thrashed the Goats in Los Angeles. The best part? Davies scored thrice...all in the run of play. Also, United was on the road, so naturally, a win or any amount of points is nearly a given.


8. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 4
Result: L 2-6 @ SEA
Last Five: W-L-W-W-L

Okay. It was one thing to get routed in Seattle, and lose 6-2. But another to finally, and unexpectedly lose 4-2 to your Trillium Cup rivals, Toronto FC. Some slip up room is allowed since they technically are tied for first in the East with Sporting, and have a match in hand. But this type of from that Columbus is in, well, makes me think otherwise about Eastern Conference contention.

9. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 7
Result: L 0-3 @ SKC
Last Five: W-T-W-L-L

The Orange Crush simply cannot do it. They lack a mindset to play in an away atmosphere. And the blank scoring on conceding of four goals during their two-match road swing prove it in its entirety. While they manage to be a point ahead of D.C., United have three matches in hand. They could easily slip away from the top three contention as soon as they hit the road again.

10. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 13
Result: Match @ DC ppd.
Last Five: L-L-W-W-T

In what was a rather forgettable match, this road win to Philadelphia may prove to be crucial for the Timbers if they want to replicate their little enemies up the I-5 corridor, and make the playoffs in their maiden MLS campaign. A two-match home stand against New England and San Jose, whom are rather beatable opponents, will need to be six points if they want to nab a wildcard berth.

11. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 8
Result: L 0-1 vs. RSL
Last Five: W-T-L-L-L

Again, and again, and again; Chivas USA is dropping games like flies at home, losing and being shutout in the past two outings. If the Goats end up hitting a hot streak at the end, but miss out on the playoffs, well, this three match slide is to blame. Had Angel scored on that wicked half-volley, I might be mindlessly ranting about that rather than this.

12. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 16
Result: W 4-2 @ CLB
Last Five: T-W-L-T-W

Aron Winter’s Dutch dreamland for the Reds: well, it has finally came in league play. For the first time in their existence, Toronto has defeated their Trillium Cup rivals, and taken the derby title for the first time ever. If such form can translate into Champions League action, Toronto might actually see themselves in the knockout round, and potentially turning some heads if they oust a side like UNAM from this momentum.

13. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 11
Result: T 4-4 vs. NE, T 0-0 vs. POR
Last Five: T-T-L-T-T

Maybe the barnstorming, 4-4 draw against New England took a lot of the U. A scoreless draw at home to Portland is not exactly the form they want to “improve” to, if they want to remain in the Eastern Conference’s top three. And with three conference matches on the docket, two at home, this draw at home, lose on the road form will need to vanish, or else their season-long playoff picture might collapse in tragic form.

14. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 15
Result: W 2-0 vs. FCD
Last Five: L-T-L-T-W

The Revs caught Dallas in a depleted mode and simply put it, they took every advantage of it. New York tying and Houston losing, have endured the Revs’ slim playoff hopes, but in all due respect, this win is nothing more than a moral builder, and a statement of proof that if the Revs can finish out games like this, 2012 could be a year they not only make the playoffs, but vie for the Eastern Conference crown.

15. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 12
Result: W 2-0 vs. COL
Last Five: T-T-W-W-L

Chicago had some unfortunate turn of events to lose this one to swooning San Jose. Sean Johnson, for all he could do, had a superb night, saving a penalty and limiting Chris Wondolowski’s shooting spell to only a goal, where Johnson was simply milliseconds shy of saving. If anything really halted Chicago’s chances of potentially considering the playoffs, it was this loss. Really now, their focus will evidently turn towards the Open Cup final in three weeks.

16. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 17
Result: W 2-0 vs. CHI
Last Five: T-L-L-T-W

This time three months ago was the last time San Jose posted a “W” in the result column. Following that, the ‘Quakes went on a sludgy, endless summer posting loses on the road and draws at home. And frankly, for any club, such form well cause you to collapse to the bottom of the table. Sadly, this win might have been too little too late for any postseason ambitions.

17. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: T 1-1 vs. NYRB
Last Five: T-L-L-L-W

Still watching the replays to see Camillo’s apparent foul. I’ll let you know when I find it. Man, the ‘Caps were robbed of their first possible home win. Things would have gotten ugly in the RBNY front office if that happened. The hunger for a consecutive win will simply have to wait.

18. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1-1 @ Van
Last Five: L-T-L-T-T

I’m sorry, but when the league’s worst have all had impressive nights, defeating top heavy teams, and the original lone Eastern powerhouse, draws at home, by some range of sheer luck, to the weakest out West, and the whole league...well, you might just be the worst in the league. Worst because you stocked on talented players, but you’re depth is nonexistent and you’ve had a lone win in the past four months. How they still manage to be the playoff picture has stunned me. Also, who is willing to bet that MLSSoccer.com will still have them ranked somewhere around eighth or ninth in their Power Rankings since it was a tie?

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Richmond, VA

The postseason race is on, and no one is safe in the East! Unless you’re New England or Toronto, your team has a fair shot at making the playoffs. Unfortunately, with the Seattle and Columbus match, there’s an extremely probable chance that a Western Conference wildcard seed marches through the Eastern Conference like the past two years. Or Lamar Neagle just had an incredible day.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: Match @ NY ppd.
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

The silver lining out of Hurricane Irene has to be Bruce Arena being able to start several role players in the Galaxy’s Champions League lineup. The stability in the midfield helped the Galaxy win that critical, even-sided match. Still, I had my doubts about New York being able to defeat Los Angeles in the Network Derby. Yes, that’s my label for it.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: W 6-2 vs. CLB
Last Five: L-W-T-W-W

All it took was one goal to infuse Lamar Neagle into a rampant goal-scoring menace. And with his hat trick, Neagle earned a well-deserved, Player of the Week honor. Additionally, we were reminded that the Western Conference completely outclasses the Eastern Conference. The Sounders continue to reveal their attacking depth, which will come in handy against a fellow top-heavy side, FC Dallas.

3. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 4
Result: W 3-2 @ SKC
Last Five: T-W-L-W-W

While on the topic of team depth, if any other team can rival Seattle with it, it’s FC Dallas. Sure there were a few mishaps against Sporting Kansas City without George John, but hey, they basically beat Toronto twice in Toronto during Champions League play, and with the gritty workhorse named Brek Shea, the two goals were negated...literally within minutes. John’s return can be a massive boost for Dallas, while U.S. Soccer’s heart will skip a beat, in the worry Seattle may get eliminated by Dallas.

4. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 3
Result: L 2-6 @ SEA
Last Five: W-L-W-W-L

Julius James’ absence was slightly felt by the Crew’s back line. If by slight, a team that simply leaked in goals before conceding one of the softest own goals. Still, Crew fans can admire Jeff Cunningham’s enduring chase to become the MLS all-time leading goalscorer finally concluded. Unfortunately, chains of defensive miscommunication completely punctured all glee associated with the milestone. Columbus easily have the works to make the Eastern Conference finals, but let’s face it. There’s quite some benchmarks to meet if they want to be a contender once again for the Cup and Shield.



5. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 7
Result: W 1-0 @ CHV
Last Five: L-W-L-L-W

Rather unexpected, but Alvaro Saborio’s clean, crisp shot against Chivas USA proved to be the fundamental match-winning goal. And with a man down and some luck, the Royals will graciously take all three points. Question is how much it will cost them against Philly without Borchers.

6. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 5
Result: L 0-2 @ CHI
Last Five: W-W-W-T-L

Off to a solid Champions League start, the Rapids, actually, are in better stomping ground than their cross-mountain rivals, Real Salt Lake, were this time last year. Granted, the Rapids’ did not travel to Mexico for match two, but in spite of playing a mixture of starters and reserves, getting the home win and away draw in Champions League are basics to advance to the Championship Round.

7. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 6
Result: L 0-1 @ VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-W-L

Their pace to reach the apex of the Eastern Conference was, unexpectedly halted by league minnows, Vancouver. Given that they still, yes still, have yet to win a match on the road, this may be problematic should the Orange Crush earn a lower wild-card seed in the playoffs, or simply a wildcard seed altogether.

8. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 9
Result: L 0-1 vs. RSL
Last Five: L-W-T-L-L

A tough stretch of away fixtures this month culminated with a dicey performance against heavy underachievers, Real Salt Lake. Really, other than Angel’s wicked volley that punched the crossbar, there was few chances to pull an equalizer, further hurting postseason ambitions.

9. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 8
Result: L 2-3 vs. FCD
Last Five: T-L-W-W-L

A dream start for Sporting ended in a ugly contrasting nightmare. Immediately following a double up on their lead, it’s subsequently slashed in half. But then, once it seems the Wizards have the win in the bag, a wave of attack upon attack causes a heartbreaking defeat, leaving Sporting stuck in a mucky mess of almost every Eastern team in playoff contention.


10. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 10
Result: Match vs. POR ppd.
Last Five: W-T-W-T-L

Even if this upstart United side is claiming to be hungry for a win, a week-and-a-half break from all competitions might be what the Black-and-Red need to capitalize on their conference’s shortcomings and wheel their way into the top positions in the East.

11. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 9
Result: Match vs. NE ppd.
Last Five: W-L-T-T-L

...

12. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 13
Result: W 2-0 vs. COL
Last Five: L-T-T-W-W

...

13. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 14
Result: Match @ DC ppd.
Last Five: T-W-T-W-L

While this might be a nice breather for Portland, their going to once again have to travel out to Washington, and likely in the midst of a wild playoff race. To be totally sincere, I’m skeptic about the certain type of form the Timbers would be in by then.

14. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 15
Result: T 2-2 @ NE
Last Five: L-T-L-T-T

New York’s layoff of matches, in part due to the weather, will likely be the final opportune chance to turn their season around and prove they are a deserving heavyweight in the league, or at least in the Eastern Conference. Technically, if you count matches with no games in hand for any club, the Red Bulls are now outside of playoff contention, which, ironically, was no where near expectations. Shield hopes, and maybe even Eastern Conference title hopes are gone, and the only way this side can redeem themselves is regularly win the final matches and hope the a hot streak boils through November. Or else the Big Apple will demand Soler and Backe fly back to Scandinavia.

15. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 16
Result: Match @ PHI ppd.
Last Five: L-L-T-L-T

An off week thanks to the weather...I don’t think it would have done much of a difference. At this point it’s safe to say the Revs will, for the first time in franchise history, fail to consecutively qualify for the playoffs. Thing is, every MLS team has their weaker days, and it simply took New England this long for it the inevitable to come. Good news is, a rise in youth prospects, might turn their fortunes around the subsequent year.

16. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1-1 vs. SJ
Last Five: T-T-W-L-T

Nearly holding on for their second win in three matches, Toronto got a taste of Chicago. Mind the joke, as Chicago has managed to earn more than a point in their last two games. Anyways, Champions League looks, iffy with their blown second chance against Dallas, which is likely going to cause a rough battle against UNAM Pumas for the second place spot in their group. Think it’s safe to say with their result against Western minnows San Jose, their postseason ambitions have, yet again, failed.


17. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 17
Result: T 1-1 @ TOR
Last Five: L-T-L-L-T

A late gasp equalizer from the returning wondrous Wondolowski has given the ‘Quakes some life on the road, but this team has gone two-and-a-half months without a victory.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: W 1-0 vs. HOU
Last Five: T-L-L-L-W

Possibly nothing more than a mere three points to add to their lowly sum, or just a tentative moral booster, the Caps take the role of the spoiler. Similar to D.C. last season, the Caps, thanks to Salinas, managed to find the right side of the result in what was a simply open game.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Fairfax, VA

The twenty-third week of Major League Soccer regular season action marked the dream debut for Robbie Keane, the perfect of MLS teams in CONCACAF play, and a series of midweek fixtures that cost some team the proper energy to nab a maximum number of points. With that, the range between the top playoff-bound teams and teams on the outside looking in, has, well, shrunk.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: W 2-0 vs. SJ,
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

In the final leg of the California Clasico, Robbie Keane had the ideal start, bracing the opening goal in an overall dominating performance by the Galaxy. With Keane looking to be the ideal replacement to Edson Buddle and bringing the best out of Mike Magee, they look destined to continue the tradition of winning back-to-back Supporters’ Shields. This teams looks to be an MLS powerhouse for a few more seasons.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 3
Result: W 1-0 @ FCD
Last Five: W-L-W-T-W

Clawing their way back into the Supporters’ Shield race, a worm-buring strike from Mauro Rosales gave the Sounders revenge against top heavy FC Dallas. Things should get bitter in their U.S. Open Cup semifinal in eight days.

3. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 4
Result: W 2-1 vs. PHI
Last Five: W-W-L-W-W

And with Philadelphia, it has sealed it. The pairing of Renteria and Mendoza is arguably the best in the East, and this club can play down, tied, or any situation and see a winning result through. However, given the fact that the top East teams are mid-table teams and the worst East teams are on the same stomping ground and Portland and Vancouver, well, it’s tough to determine if this upstart Columbus side will truly be amongst MLS’ elite.
4. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 2
Result: L 0-1 vs. SEA
Last Five: W-L-T-W-L

Given their recent shortcomings in league play, it will be downplayed as Dallas is riding on the media hype of being the first American soccer club to beat a Mexican team, on Mexican soil, in a meaningful competition. Still, their chances to stay on pace with the Galaxy for the Shield race have been regressed, and now the Hoops sit third in the table.

5. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 5
Result: T 2-2 vs. CHV
Last Five: T-W-W-W-T

Without knowing it, there is a good deal of attacking depth behind Conor Casey. Kandji steps up in the Champions League and now Caleb Folan and Jeff Larentowicz help the Rapids earn points in league play. Unfortunately, despite their seven-match unbeaten run, conceding points late at home is not something a top-tier MLS club does. And if Colorado wants to repeat their MLS Cup glory, they will need to figure that out within the next two months.

6. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 8
Result: W 3-2 vs. RSL
Last Five: W-T-W-T-W

To be honest, once confident youngster Luis Gil netted the leading goal for Salt Lake, it seemed RSL would see the match through. And why not? Salt Lake, given their posistion, has the most matches on hand against any team, and Houston, given their strong form, really is not (on paper) better than Salt Lake. And thank God soccer’s played on grass...or turf, and not on paper. The ending effort was more than deserving of the full three. Now they just need to win on the road.

7. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 6
Result: L 2-3 @ HOU
Last Five: L-L-W-L-L

While I’m certain Real Salt Lake will still make the playoffs, and have good faith they will not pul a New York, this recent form is frightening. Yes, there has been effort, and goals, but mistakes and miscommunication and, frankly, three points vanished in the Texas heat.

8. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 11
Result: W 3-1 vs. POR, W 1-0 vs. DC
Last Five: W-T-L-W-W

While the home stand had to have played to Sporting’s advantage, give them credit. A well-orchestrated, commanding victory in which the Wizards succumbed Jack Jewsbury’s homecoming, culminated with a tough fight against on par D.C. United. Things continue the way they are, look for the latter matchup to be a thrilling playoff match.

9. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 10
Result: T 2-2 @ COL
Last Five: W-L-W-T-L

In a fresh start for Angel, he manages to make will timed runs and defeat the offside trap. While it’s too early to determine that he’s the missing link in the Goats’ attack, the DP is making a run for his money.

10. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 7
Result: T 1-1 @ CHI, L 0-1 @ SKC
Last Five: W-T-W-T-L

It was inevitable, but for the first time since April, D.C. United lost on the road. The team looked rather sloppy for the first time in awhile. Depending on Hamid’s injury, this may make it rather tough to see United in the playoffs. However, it’s still way to early to make that call, especially since nearly half the league is far lousier form.

11. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 9
Result: L 1-2 @ CLB
Last Five: W-L-T-T-L

At the end of the day, it was simple: Columbus was the better team. This really looks to be a small swoon this season, as the Union are tying at home and losing away, but an incoming bye week might help the team regroup for the final stretch of 2011.

12. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 14
Result: L 1-3 @ SKC, W 2-1 vs. VAN
Last Five: T-W-T-W-L

Jack Jewsbury’s homecoming in Kansas City was quite a forgetable evening, and one flustering setback, a needed, and rather expected home win against their “friendly” Cascadian rivals helped bring some joy in the Rose City and returned them back into the playoff chase.

13. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 15
Result: T 1-1 vs. DC, W 2-0 vs. TOR
Last Five: L-L-T-T-W

While their match against D.C. was the typical case of conceding late, an opponent like Toronto FC was just what Chicago needed: An easy back line to reignited Dominic Odouro with confidence, and finishing. Let’s not forget that.

14. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 12
Result: L 0-2 @ CHI
Last Five: L-T-T-W-L

Finally. For the first time this season, we have standards set in Toronto. They lose a match deemed winnable. Actually, I shouldn’t get carried away. It was more of an opportunity to seize points on the road. Evidently, that did not happen, and against a mediocre side such as Chicago, that’s not exactly the rebuilding form that Toronto has been in their existence.

15. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 13
Result: T 2-2 @ NE
Last Five: L-T-L-T-T

Technically, MLSSoccer.com claims New York is the final wildcard berth for the postseason. When actually, the Red Bulls are a spot out of the playoffs if they you count every MLS team’s record after 24 games. Dane Richards had a huge night, but let’s face it. Tim Ream is becoming the next Jonathan Bornstein, and it breaks USMNT fans’ hearts.

16. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 16
Result: T 2-2 vs. NY
Last Five: L-L-T-L-T

Thanks to some average officiating, which we classify as terrible, the Revs were stripped two points, and New York can pretend to be in the playoff chase for another week. Steve Nicol has to be furious, already with the irritation at the Kraft family, and the inability to acquire talent, and now having draws that feel like loses.


17. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 17
Result: L 0-2 @ LA
Last Five: L-L-T-L-L

Whether the Galaxy’s offense is just that good, or the Earthquakes back line is simply that bad, the ‘Quakes, and especially Jon Busch, made Beckham’s chip look like a masterpiece and Keane’s goal look like a thing of a beauty embedded in sheer class. Maybe it was, but I can name numerous defenders and keepers in this league who would have been better organized.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: L 1-2 @ POR
Last Five: L-T-L-L-L

Ever since the D.C. United loss, the Whitecaps’ Eric Hassli is seemingly out of it. He’s falling all over the place, making off timed runs, and simply not producing. Soehn is simply at a loss in figuring out how to piece this team together to finish not necessarily in playoff style, but with some pride. That looks just as long as an odd of any postseason play.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Fairfax, VA

To say week 22 of the 2011 Major League Soccer calendar is important, is frankly, quite an understatement. A string of CONCACAF Champions League matches kick off tonight through Thursday, and as most teams have 10 or fewer regular season matches remaining, the postseason race will really begin to heat up, as well as the Supporters’ Shield race. And, remember the U.S. Open Cup? Just two weeks away, preparation for that match looms in the not-too-distant future.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: BYE
Last Five: W-W-W-L-W

Having a week off, the Galaxy should be well rested for this evening’s CONCACAF Champions League showdown. And they will need every advantage needed, as they certainly are in the toughest CCL group in the tournament. But given their form, their depth, and only league play to focus on, not to mention the addition of Robbie Keane, the Galaxy should be able to earn a berth into the Championship Round.

2. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 4
Result: T 2-2 @ PHI
Last Five: W-T-W-L-T

I don’t see the late squandering of a lead to Philadelphia in PPL Park to completely throw of Dallas. This squad looks more anxious to put emphasis on the Champions League, and hopefully the start things off on an exceptional note. As I’ve stated numerous times before, this squad looks poised to earn more than just a point on Mexican soil.

3. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: T 0-0 vs. CHV
Last Five: W-W-L-W-T

A test for emphasis. Like their Western Conference opponents down South, the Sounders have four major events in their sight: the Shield, the MLS Cup, U.S. Open Cup and starting tomorrow, the Champions League. And frankly, no team feels the most pressure to excel and raise their standards in all competitions. Advancing further in the playoffs, completing a three-peat in the Open Cup, moving themselves past Group Stage play, and of course, vying for the Supporters Shield win LA and Dallas. They have their right to feel being robbed two points to Chivas, but if the Shield loses emphasis, they can afford such results in league play for the time being.

4. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 5
Result: W 3-1 vs. NE
Last Five: L-W-W-L-W

The Crew capitalized tremendously against a feeble New England side and further expanded their Conference lead to the point that they would still maintain their top posistion, even if Sporting and D.C. win their matches on hand against Columbus. A certain mentality to fight back was also exhibited following New England’s somewhat shocking opener. Granted, clubs have been renowned to rally against the Revs on multiple occasions.

5. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 6
Result: W 2-1 @ SJ
Last Five: W-T-W-W-W

Major League Soccer, your defending champions are back, and in their best form since March-April. And there is no better time than prior to the CONCACAF Champions League and the playoff race to get red hot. Hm, funny. It reminds me of this time last year–minus the Champions League. Their gritty, come-from-behind play and total team effort. It may be flustering to witness at times, but it is often the only way to win the crapshoot playoffs and perform in tournaments.

6. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 3
Result: L 0-1 @ TOR
Last Five: W-L-L-W-L

While the loss at Toronto will widely been seen as a fluke, the fact of the matter is their ability to finish. Salt Lake has maintained their ability to exceptionally pass the ball down the field, but once they hit the penalty box, they seemingly slam on the brakes. However, given the fact that all the other top Western Conference clubs will be congested with the U.S. Open Cup and the Champions League, Salt Lake will have to take this to their advantage. Perhaps if they do so and finish in front of the net, they can find themselves in a automatic Western Conference berth in the playoffs and knocking on the door for the Shield and trip back to the Champions League.

7. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: T-9
Result: W 4-0 vs. VAN
Last Five: T-L-W-T-W

While Chris Pontius may have heard MLS Player of the Week, it really has to go to Joe Willis. He might have been busy for most of the evening in United’s thrashing of the Whitecaps, but in a tense moment before halftime, four consecutive saves of getting up and off the ground possibly saved United from flustering home results. Afterall, it was their first win at home since they played Vancouver’s Cascadian rivals last May. And with it, United are in a joint tie for third place in the East, but with two matches on hand.
They keep up the chemistry with Pontius and De Rosario, United looks poised to vye with Columbus for the Eastern Conference regular season crown.

8. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 8
Result: W 2-1 vs. POR
Last Five: W-T-W-T-W

Earning a critical win off of two early goals, one being wicked strike from Brian Ching, the Dynamo look to be entering a stiff battle with D.C. for positioning. Oddly enough, thanks to the dwindling form of Philadelphia and the obvious underachieving of New York, the two may just vie for the final automatic playoff berth in the East. But before you know it, these two will be back at it vying for the Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup. Solid futures ahead for them after an epoch of dank times.

9. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 7
Result: T 2-2 vs. FCD
Last Five: W-W-L-T-T

For me, I was not expected Freddy Adu to be so quickly integrated into the starting lineup. I mean, yes, I was expecting him to become and eventual starter, but in a certain fashion. That fashion was to become in the Union XI culminated a chain of being a “super sub”. Fact is, that process may not come, and well, who knows what it will bring. Adu had a somewhat good evening, but it will take time really foresee his impact on the club, although it allows Le Toux to have more freedom roaming the field. If so, Adu will assume more of a role player duty.

10. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: T-9
Result: T 0-0 @ SEA
Last Five: T-W-L-W-T

At the tail end, Chivas dodged a huge bullet, and earned an immensely important road point to keep in tact in the wildcard race. Rumor has it that Angel will be crossing the hallway to join Chivas, which can play as a well-played marketing gimmick in the manufactured L.A. Derby, hence Angel can provide an offensive boost.

11. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: T-9
Result: BYE
Last Five: T-T-W-T-L

Sporting had a week off, and hopefully they went over the practice of finishing off matches. They meet up with an opponent that’s far too familiar with that fate, Portland.

12. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 14
Result: W 1-0 vs. RSL
Last Five: L-L-T-T-W

This win by Toronto has to be a rather large flop, that likely should have been a repeat of their horrendous outing at home to Philly. Plata, by the way, is finally some proof that MLSE knows what they’re sometimes doing. However, this win will probably go down as a brief moment a joy and some ascending to their highest power ranking posistion all season.

13. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 13
Result: T 2-2 vs. CHI
Last Five: T-L-T-L-T

Tying at home and losing on the road is not exactly the form a team with postseason ambitions should have. But due to the virtue of playing far more matches, they still remain in an automatic playoff posistion, in spite of the fact of failing to win more than three matches in the past four months. ESPN has claimed that if New York fails to even qualify for the playoffs it will be the largest flop in American soccer history. And how flustering does it have to be, certain star players, such as Henry are producing, but a miscommunication and an under-confident back line have caused so many points to lose the Red Bulls’ grip.

14. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 12
Result: L 1-2 @ HOU
Last Five: W-L-T-W-T

Another road match, and result that leads to outright frustration. Needless to say, for the MLS newcomers, they are making a solid statement in their season back in the top tier of American soccer. However, in the midst of their form, they just shot themselves in the foot in the wildcard race, while D.C., Chivas and Houston further distanced themselves to a four point lead over the Timbers.

15. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 17
Result: T 2-2 @ NY
Last Five: T-T-L-L-T

Before the season began, seeing Chicago draw at New York might have been one hell of an achievement. What I considered polar teams in the Eastern Conference has turned out to be teams playing on the same level of play. Chicago suffered a case of deserving to win their match, but somehow ended up drawing for probably the tenth-straight time. I partially joke about that, as this side will go down in history for the most ties in a single season. The fact they’ve only won twice this season isn’t convincing.

16. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 15
Result: L 1-3 @ CLB
Last Five: W-T-T-L-L

Welp, that quick little burst of points has completely evaporated. And the Revs have returned to the state of getting the early go-ahead goal and watching themselves trip over their own shoes and dig themselves into giant holes. The verdict this time? Columbus. However, let’s face it: when this season is over, the blame wont be pointed at Nicol or his roster, but on the Kraft family.

17. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 16
Result: L 1-2 vs. COL
Last Five: T-T-L-L-T

In five days, I start my freshmen year in college. My high school prom was well over two months ago, and feels far longer than that. That was the last time the ‘Quakes won a competitive match.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: L 0-4 @ DC
Last Five: L-L-T-L-L

Against D.C., once DeMerit was taken out, the team outright collapsed. Vancouver looked like a bunch of school kids lost on a soccer field. Failing miserably to connect on passes, and far too often resulting in bad giveaways and easy goals. Not all of the heat should be put on the defense, but on the midfield and on goalkeeper Jay Nolly. Nolly allowed in two goals that should have been saves, and the midfield simply could not orchestrate any flow. In fact, I think United scored more goals on the Whitecaps than the ‘Caps had shots on goal.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Fairfax, VA

The twenty-first week of the 2011 Major League Soccer season saw the league heavyweights, except New York (if you still consider them a “heavyweight”) return back to their normal status. Along with a return to normalcy, we got a glimpse of some very, very young talent and their professional potentially. Ahem, Luis Gill and Diego Fagundez. And finally, following a wild draw in the nation’s capital, Toronto FC just never meant to win soccer matches. We also are beginning to see the start of what will be a wild race for the wild card berths in the playoffs. Good move, MLS. You did well expanding the playoffs. And I earnestly mean that.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 1
Result: L 0-3 @ POR, W 3-1 vs. FCD
Last Five: W-W-W-L-W

As the race for the Supporters’ Shield heats up, the league-leading Galaxy not only exhibited a winning mentality over a top-heavy Dallas side, but they exhibited an ability that was missing in 2010: the ability to earn any amount of points when playing a man down. As for the Timbers match? Well, in the meantime, I’ll give Los Angeles the benefit of the doubt and claim it was a fluky result for now.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 2
Result: L 1-3 @ HOU
Last Five: T-W-W-L-W

Even if it was at the fault of the reserves, that puncturing 7-0 loss to Manchester United sucked a lot of confidence out of the upstart Sounders, who might have the reverse fortunes of 2010 seep into 2011. Perhaps a victory in the second leg of Champions League preliminaries might help kick things back into gear as they endure a demanding schedule this month.

3. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 5
Result: W 3-0 v. NY
Last Five: W-W-L-L-W

Huge night for newcomer Luis Gil, and it looked like the old Real Salt Lake we haven’t seen since their wild run in the Champions League. If they got hot right now, there’s a realistic chance they can find their way back into the Supporters’ Shield race. And why stop there? MLS Cup ambitions might follow suit.

4. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 3
Result: L 1-3 @ LA
Last Five: T-W-T-W-L

Right now, except for Seattle, there is no other team that is a realistic posistion of grabbing the first ever Treble in MLS history. This treble, obviously would consist of the Shield, MLS Cup and the U.S. Open Cup. However, following Marvin Chavez’s inevitable GOTW nominee blast, the Hoops hit a tack, as the league leading Galaxy rallied and took a six point advantage over the Hoops in the Supporters’ Shield race. With Champions League group stages and U.S. Open Cup semis a couple weeks off, there is still a bit of time to recapture league points.

5. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 4
Result: L 0-2 @ COL
Last Five: T-L-W-W-L

A team riding heavily on confidence gets a bit of breather thanks to their Eastern counterparts results. The unexpected, but longtime Eastern Conference leaders find themselves likely having the top seed out East, but a stark chance of winning MLS Cup hardware as Colorado showed them this past week.

6. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: T-9
Result: W 2-0 vs. CLB
Last Five: L-W-T-W-W

After watching some highlights between Colorado and Columbus, it obviously reminded me of their MLS Cup playoff clash last fall. And with Drew Moor look revitalized, and Cummings looking as ferocious as ever, perhaps Colorado might repeat 2010 in terms of a hot streak at the end, further demoralizing the MLS Cup through blog posts by angry hardcore fans.

7. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 6
Result: L 1-2 vs. COL
Last Five: T-W-W-L-T

Colorado nabbed two fast goals on the, usually reliable, Philly backline. Their response went as expected, but continous failed opportunities caused Roger Torres’ lone goal to be too little, too late. Perhaps the release of Ruiz is why this Philadelphia side needs if they want to regain the Eastern Conference lead.

8. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: T-9
Result: T 1-1 @ PHI
Last Five: L-W-T-W-T

Their well deserved victory at home against Seattle shows the classic MLS side, or the side that marketeers want, a team that simply wins at home. If you mixed their home form with D.C. United’s away form, you have a deadly team jockeying for the Shield.

T-9. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 11
Result: W 3-2 @ NE
Last Five: T-T-W-L-W

Weathering off a late surge by the Revolution, the likes of Robin Fraser with management and Nick Labrocca on the pitch are shimmering. With it, the Goats look poised to be a wildcard team that could turn some heads in the playoffs. Wouldn’t quite call them an MLS Cup contender, but they’re certainly in a legitimate stance to qualify!

T-9. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 8
Result: T 3-3 vs. TOR
Last Five: W-T-L-W-T

Never as a result like this been so deceiving since Real Salt Lake and New England drew 3-3. Playing a man down, with a goalie (Steve Cronin) who never played a single minute of the season, along with absences of several key players, well...such a relief to be playing Toronto. Oh, I forgot. D.C. for whatever reason, can only win matches away from RFK, and hat trick hero, De Rosario was the team’s missing link.

T-9. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 7
Result: L 1-2 vs. SEA
Last Five: T-T-W-T-L

Kansas City got a taste of their own medicine while watching their points slip away against a Sounders side that looked vulnerable as of late. With the win/draw form of D.C. and Houston and the pathetically hopeless form of New York, a wild race for third place out East is assembling as we speak.

12. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: T-15
Result: W 3-0 vs. LA, T 1-1 @ SJ
Last Five: W-L-T-W-T

This recent form of Portland has been hands down their best since the opening days of renovated Jeld-Wen Field. Fluky, maybe? But nevertheless, a commanding 3-0 home victory against MLS’ tops, Los Angeles Galaxy, and then capturing a point against the feeble Earthquakes. And just like that, some playoff hopes are flickering again.

13. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 12
Result: L 0-3 @ RSL
Last Five: L-T-L-T-L

This is scary to think, but after waiting months on end, New York’s subpar play has finally allowed D.C., Houston and Kansas City to all muscle their way into New York’s third place spot out East. Also, I suppose the goalkeeping situation is still problematic in New York. As we noticed, Condoul came on for Rost later on. Thanks to the Gold Cup, Ream’s confidence has been drained.

14. TORONTO FC

Last Week: T-15
Result: T 3-3 @ DC
Last Five: W-L-L-T-T

My, oh my, Toronto FC. It is as if you and winning were never meant to be. Lets list out every advantage Toronto had to beat D.C. United. First, TFC played with a man advantage for 84 minutes of the match. Next, the Reds had a goal that really should not have counted. Their third? Well, they capitalized quite well on scoring on the inexperienced (to MLS) Steve Cronin. However, led by Andy Iro, who had a rough evening, the Reds found a way to squander two points in what should have been an easy three. Nothing comes easy for Toronto FC. Also, if anyone cares to know, following the result, Toronto FC was mathematically out of contention of winning the Shield.

15. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 13
Result: L 2-3 vs. CHV
Last Five: L-W-T-T-L

An array of MLS youngsters have left their mark this weekend, and New England’s super prospect, Diego Fagundez managed to get the consolation goal. From an ignorant standpoint, it’s pretty comical to watch the little guy slither and weave his way over rhino-looking defenders, but, hardly the point. Thanks to him, Revs fans have something to smile about for the future of this club, and that one day, they’ll return to their glory years.

16. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1-1 vs. POR
Last Five: T-T-L-L-T

The postseason window is closing fast on the ‘Quakes, and it seems as if no one is in any hurry to try to jump out of the window. Okay, maybe Alan Gordon, who has been quite a workhorse for the club. The thing is, it just seems as if San Jose simply cannot find anyone to garner three points in games they should win, but simply cannot.

17. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 17
Result: Play @ VAN tonight 7:30 p.m. ET
Last Five: T-T-T-L-L

Okay. Fair enough. Chicago has yet to play their fixture against Vancouver, but lets be real: regardless of the outcome of this match, Chicago and Vancouver will still end up occupying either 17th or 18th spot in the Power Rankings.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 18
Result: Play vs. CHI tonight 7:30 p.m. ET
Last Five: L-L-L-T-L

Please see the description above. Replace “Chicago” with “Vancouver” and vise versa.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Fairfax, VA

With sheer exception to Los Angeles and Vancouver, and perhaps D.C. and San Jose, parity make an ugly return into MLS in Week 20. Some of it has to be thanks to several of the league heavyweights not in the best of form after Champions League play (ahem, Seattle), and some it was credited towards the absences of key cogs in certain teams. In the past, I’ve been hesitant to put the Galaxy at the top of the Power Rankings, mostly in part due to the fact they had played far more matches until recently. Now there’s absolutely no doubt they’re deservingly in the top spot of the Rankings.

1. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 2
Result: W 4-0 @ VAN
Last Five: T-T-W-W-W

Once the Galaxy got on the board, the floodgates opened like no other. Donovan, Cristman, and company simply poured on the feeble ‘Caps back line in the dying minutes of the match, leaving Southsiders with a bitter reality check.

2. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 1
Result: L 1-3 @ HOU
Last Five: W-W-T-W-W

Even if it was at the fault of the reserves, that puncturing 7-0 loss to Manchester United sucked a lot of confidence out of the upstart Sounders, who might have the reverse fortunes of 2010 seep into 2011. Perhaps a victory in the second leg of Champions League preliminaries might help kick things back into gear as they endure a demanding schedule this month.

3. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 4
Result: W 1-0 vs. CHV (W 1-0 @ ALZ in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-T-W-T-W

The more I see Dallas play, the more I like. Schellas Hyndmann has made a top-heavy team stocked with talent, flare and strength. Some wins, clearly, do not come easy, but the teamwork and workhorse effort exhibited reveals why this team is just three points shy of being in the clear for the Supporters’ Shield.

4. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 6
Result: W 2-0 @ RSL
Last Five: W-T-L-W-W

Needless to say, the Crew have been the shock of 2011, while many were expecting them to be dwelling right about the cellar, the Crew at in a spot they have familiarized themselves with; leading the Eastern Conference. Four straight years, and Columbus might be in a golden era, and Waryzcha might be a contender for coach of the year.

5. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 3
Result: L 0-2 vs. CLB
Last Five: W-T-W-W-L

It’s amazing how the absence of Olave and the abrupt absence of Saborio do to Real Salt Lake. Granted, the suspension on Saborio was rather last minute, and Kries was forced to shuffle around. Earlier in the season, we did see how Salt Lake handeled with reserves. But that was New England. This is Columbus, and the Crew nabbed two fast go-ahead goals within the first 15 minutes.

6. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 5
Result: L 1-2 vs. COL
Last Five: T-T-W-W-L

Colorado nabbed two fast goals on the, usually reliable, Philly backline. Their response went as expected, but continous failed opportunities caused Roger Torres’ lone goal to be too little, too late. Perhaps the release of Ruiz is why this Philadelphia side needs if they want to regain the Eastern Conference lead.

7. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 7
Result: T 1-1 vs. NE
Last Five: T-T-T-W-T

Another game, another dramatic late equalizer by Sporting. Thing is, given the form of their opponent, Kansas City should have had higher sights and better results. In light of it all, it was a joyous occasion to see Teal Bunbury back and, evidently, in full match fitness to give Kansas City a consolation point.

8. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 9
Result: W 2-0 @ SJ
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Oddly enough, D.C. United boats, by far, the best road record in the Eastern Conference and one of the four best road records in the entire league. As ironic as it may sound in MLS, D.C. United seems to only get the full three points away from home. Time for everyone to say some jokes about decrepit RFK Stadium, and how genius it was to sign Dwayne De Rosario.

T-9. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 11
Result: W 2-1 @ PHI
Last Five: W-L-W-T-W

Winning three of their last five, the Colorado Rapids are returning to grasp some of their champions swagger. Such confidence, that has been missed since the start of the season. However, these bursts of solid play will need to be consistent or the Rapids will be honored with the largest fluke in MLS Cup history since the 2006 Galaxy.

T-9. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 10
Result: W 3-1 vs. SEA
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Their well deserved victory at home against Seattle shows the classic MLS side, or the side that marketeers want, a team that simply wins at home. If you mixed their home form with D.C. United’s away form, you have a deadly team jockeying for the Shield.

11. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 8
Result: L 0-1 @ FCD
Last Five: W-T-T-W-L

Unlike other cases, Chivas was not outright outclassed nor dominated by the weary FC Dallas. Even if blistering hot conditions in the so-called “Oven”. The trip hopefully wont drain the Goats too heavily.

12. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 12
Result: BYE (W 1-0 vs PSG, T 1-1 vs ARS in Emirates Cup)
Last Five: W-L-T-L-T

The unexpected Emirates Cup champions served MLS well in this friendly tournament and sent a wave of smug grins across American soccer fans when the arrogant British commentators were at a loss of words to describe New York snatching Arsenal’s self-created trophy away from them. How this affects them in meaningful competition is another question.


13. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 14
Result: T 1-1 @ KC
Last Five: L-L-W-T-T

New England has been on a real upswing, and a lot of that has to go to their road win in D.C. However, defensive lapses following that match cost them two points, as it was the case in Kansas.

14. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 13
Result: L 0-2 vs. DC
Last Five: T-T-T-L-L

Some poor defensive positioning caused San Jose to suffer a rather ugly home loss to D.C. United at the expense of their former sensation sending supporters into agony. Coincidently, the last time the two side mets, way back in mid-June, I believe was the last time San Jose won a match.

15. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 18
Result: T 2-2 @ POR (W 2-1 vs RES in CONCACAF Champions League)
Last Five: L-W-L-L-T

The last time Toronto had a road performance this impressive had to have been the surreal late draw at The Home Depot Center against, not Chivas, but the Galaxy themselves. The last half hour push paid off and might bring a flicker of joy for Toronto fans and some renowned confidence to push themselves into Group Stage of the Champions League.

15. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 15
Result: T 2-2 vs. TOR
Last Five: L-L-L-W-L

Twenty minutes remaining with a 2-0 lead against Toronto FC seems like a sheer win the bag. Oh, wait! It is the Portland Timbers, Toronto FC is (almost) on par with you on quality! Well, Toronto made me eat that sentence.

17. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 17
Result: BYE
Last Five: T-T-T-L-L

This is basically Chicago’s second conseuctive bye week, so there really is not much to say other than the newly acquired Pavel Pardo hopefully will, well, make some what of an impact. If not, Chicago had reserved a spot with Toronto in the gallery of non-playoff SuperDraft hopefuls.

18. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 16
Result: L 0-4 vs. LA
Last Five: L-L-L-T-L

Long faces will sit on Vancouver’s face for the following days. No chance for Champions League redemption and hopes for the MLS Cup far out of sight, all complimented by a heavy drubbing at home by the league’s elite. The ‘Caps, as Landon said, just need some time to jell. At least.

• by Tyler Walter, writing from Fairfax, VA

It is that time of the year. That time where MLS clubs show their true depth, especially the stronger sides. Marred already with a chain of World Football Challenge friendlies, five MLS sides will begin their quest to North American glory, as the 2011–12 CONCACAF Champions League kicks off. Three MLS teams will still have the U.S. Open Cup in the back of their mind, and this is not even considering the race of the final spots in the MLS Cup Playoffs and the gasping drama for the MLS Supporters’ Shield.

For the first time this season, the top three spots remain the same, but a series of shocking upsets, perhaps some flukey ones, too; have caused some shuffling in the lower end of the rankings.

1. SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC

Last Week: 1
Result: BYE (L 0-7 vs. MAN U in World Football Challenge)
Last Five: W-W-T-W-W

While the Sounders First XI showed their character in the first half, the reserves were the gaffe the week against Manchester United in the second half. Granted, had Noonan’s shot been on frame, the Rave Green would have shifted momentum and I doubt the Red Devils would have opened the flood gates in the second half. Still, it’s solely a friendly and the focus has to be on tomorrow night’s CONCACAF Champions League fixture.

2. LOS ANGELES GALAXY

Last Week: 2
Result: W 1-0 vs. CLB (D 1-1 [6-7 pen.] vs. MAN C in World Football Challenge)
Last Five: W-T-T-W-W

In the wake of a demoralizing loss to Real Madrid in the WFC, the Galaxy did what was necessary, and win the meaningful match of the stretch. Thankfully, with a bye to the Champions League group stages, the Galaxy can have some rest prior to a top-heavy schedule.

3. REAL SALT LAKE

Last Week: 3
Result: W 4-0 vs. SJ
Last Five: T-W-T-W-W

The diving verdict has dimmed on Charlie Davies and glared at Alvaro Saborio, causing an ejection, and a subsequent penalty, allow for the Royals to trounce the Earthquakes. RSL fans will likely have a hard time eating words about diving for the time being. Without the dive though, there still was a mighty good chance RSL could have walked away with the full three points. Focus now has to be on the Disciplinary Committee and see if Davies will not be held to a double standard.

4. FC DALLAS

Last Week: 5
Result: W 1-0 @ TOR, T 2-2 @ NY
Last Five: W-L-T-W-T

Marred by frustration shots that banged off the post, the Hoops are choosing the worst possible time to hit a rough patch in their red hot campaign. With Champions League on the horizon, the Hoops will have to forget these past two matches quick. But as we saw with Salt Lake in the U.S. Open Cup, the Hoops can rebound, and hopefully in their largest match in history, they can do so.

5. PHILADELPHIA UNION

Last Week: 4
Result: BYE (L 1-2 vs. RM in World Football Challenge)
Last Five: W-T-T-W-W

With no fixtures this week due to the WFC, the Union perhaps fared the strongest of all MLS sides in the friendly tournament, having a short stretch of poor defending, for the mishap to only be succumbed by a world class chip, courtesy of Michael Farfan.

6. COLUMBUS CREW

Last Week: 6
Result: L 0-1 @ LA, W 1-0 vs. POR
Last Five: T-W-T-L-W

Grinding out the needed points at home, the 2011 Crew looks poised to, unexpectedly, be a stronger side than the 2010 Crew. Only thing prohibiting me from putting up comparisons to the heydays of 2008–09 has to be their longshot odds of nabbing the Shield.

7. SPORTING KANSAS CITY

Last Week: 8
Result: W 4-2 vs. TOR
Last Five: W-T-T-T-W

The blemish of the week, in the wake of their hard fought burning brawl against Toronto, was the sheer fact Sporting allowed the Reds to net twice in the match. Thankfully the likes of Kamara and Co. were there to negate it and send Toronto into further Dutch dissatisfaction. Win’s a win though, and Kansas City is in their best form since the 2000 MLS Cup and MLS Supporters Shield duel run.

8. CHIVAS USA

Last Week: 10
Result: W 3-0 vs. HOU
Last Five: T-W-T-T-W

In his second hat trick of the season, we might begin to hear the chants of “Braunodinho” sooner than we think. Fraser eyes the playoffs, and if they can post results like that, and continuing their unbeaten streak, Chivas might have their strongest showing in three years.

9. D.C. UNITED

Last Week: 7
Result: L 0-1 vs. NE
Last Five: T-T-W-T-L

Still with two matches on hand to a majority of their Eastern Conference counterparts, United showed some gleamer, especially Chris Pontius, in their friendly loss to Everton following a humbling home loss to New England. For now, I’m going with this loss against the Revs as the fluke of the week.

10. HOUSTON DYNAMO

Last Week: 9
Result: L 0-3 @ CHV
Last Five: T-T-W-T-L

Hall met his match: Braun.

11. COLORADO RAPIDS

Last Week: 14
Result: W 4-1 vs. NY, T 2-2 vs. NE
Last Five: T-W-L-W-T

The Rapids brought renewed faith to the Mile High City after completely dismantling the Red Bulls and exposing their lack of depth. But, with all highs, comes reality checks, and that was a offsetting home draw against the lowly Revs, who themselves were riding well off a surreal road win.

12. NEW YORK RED BULLS

Last Week: 11
Result: L 1-4 @ COL, T 2-2 vs. FCD
Last Five: W-L-T-L-T

This All-Star Game could simply not come at anymore of an awkward time. The Red Bulls, now losing league focus for the All-Star hosting, and the marquee skip across the pond? Well, it might be a good way to divert from an embarrassing loss to Colorado and a well fought, but subpar draw to Dallas. Standards are too high in the Big Apple to accept a draw at home to the Hoops as consolation.

13. SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES

Last Week: 12
Result: T 2-2 vs. VAN, L 0-4 @ RSL
Last Five: T-T-T-T-L

San Jose fans have the justified right to complain and storm the message boards and blogs like no other. First, relinquishing a lead at home, to Vancouver. Next, having a player rejected at the cost of a dive, resulting in an undeserved thrashing? The ‘Quakes will have some outright courage if they can brush it along and rebound from the, merely flustering, chain of events.

14. NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION

Last Week: 18
Result: W 1-0 @ DC, T 2-2 @ COL
Last Five: T-L-L-W-T

Does anyone remember the last time New England played two consecutive matches, and neither of them resulted in defeat? I sure has hell don’t, and speaking of which, I was definitely not expecting it to come at the hands of D.C. and Colorado, given D.C.’s solidified reconstruction and Colorado’s laughable regression. Much of the credit has to attribute to Matt Reis.

15. PORTLAND TIMBERS

Last Week: 13
Result: L 0-1 @ CLB
Last Five: L-L-L-W-L

Given everything into account, the Timbers could have done far worse in their form against a retooled Columbus. Unfortunately, it’s dimming the Timbers once decent odds of nabbing a postseason berth.



16. VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC

Last Week: 17
Result: T 2-2 @ SJ
Last Five: W-L-L-L-T

While it was not as gorgeous as his wundervolley against the Sounders, Eric Hassli continues to come up huge and living up to his DP tag, as the ‘Caps earn easily their most impressive road draw since playing in the confines of the Link.

17. CHICAGO FIRE

Last Week: 15
Result: BYE (L 1-3 vs. MAN U in World Football Challenge)
Last Five: T-T-T-L-L

Faring the best against Manchester United, the Fire were only 25 minutes away from pulling a Sporting K.C. on the Red Devils. Guess it has to do with the Midwestern heat. Well, it was fun for the Fire, but it’s reality check and to reorganize in league play.

18. TORONTO FC

Last Week: 16
Result: L 0-1 vs. FCD, L 2-4 @ SKC
Last Five: L-L-W-L-L

Today, the Canadian press calls for the extinction of the 4-3-3 system. Tomorrow, the Red Patch Boys will call for Winter’s head. At the end of the season, the franchise will call for the back line to pack their bags and sign with some USL Pro sides, where they might get some rest on the bench.