Soucie on Soccer

Since not much changed last week, there was no reason to do a Week 27 update.  This week, after some of the big games, I’m back with an update on the 2009 MLS Cup Playoffs picture.

Officially Qualified:  Columbus Crew

The Crew locked up a spot in the playoffs Sunday after DC United lost today.  Saturday, the Crew beat down the LA Galaxy 2-0, cementing their dominance in MLS this year.  One of the only teams in their way come playoff time is the Chicago Fire.  The Fire have played the Crew very well this season.  Now that they have Brian McBride back, himself a former Crew star, the Chicago/Columbus rivalry in the playoffs should be very interesting.

IN:  Chicago Fire, Houston Dynamo, LA Galaxy

The Fire are sputtering a little, but have earned points the last two weeks to keep pace.  The Dynamo have had the CCL to worry about, but still maintain their place at the top of the Western Conference; however, Columbus looks to have outpaced them for the Supporters’ Shield.  The Galaxy had a chance to leapfrog the Dynamo, but couldn’t get even a single point out of a strong Crew side.  Still, the Galaxy are a lock for the playoffs.

Probably: New England Revolution, Colorado Rapids, Chivas USA

This group hasn’t changed at all from last week, with the except of Seattle dropping off the list.  The Revs and Goats still have games in hand, and given their point totals, could actually surpass their rivals, the Fire and the Galaxy respectively, in the final standings.  The Rapids have managed to keep their form, thanks in part to two last second extra time penalty kicks.  More than likely, all three teams will be joining the “in” group next week.

There’s Hope:  Seattle Sounders FC, Toronto FC, DC United

The most rabid fan bases in MLS are battling for the final spot.  The Sounders have far and away the best shot at the spot.  They lead this group in points, and they have also played the best over the course of the entire season.  Toronto’s the furthest back in points, but DC United’s MLS form has been very poor lately.  It is easier to believe in the Reds in part because DC United has too much to worry about trying to get out of a Champions League group in which they are very much alive.

Done, not a chance:  New York Red Bulls, San Jose Earthquakes, FC Dallas, Kansas City Wizards, Real Salt Lake

Interestingly enough, the Quakes and Hoops are playing very well right now.  Unfortunately for their fans, the run of good form has come way too late in the season.  Salt Lake is making it very difficult to believe in them.  While they are mathmatically still alive, there’s just nothing sticking out about them that says “playoff team,” especially since their final game of the season is against Colorado.  Look for these teams, especially San Jose and Dallas, to play a spoiler role in the final weeks of the season.