What We Want to Happen Today 9/29

Figured I'd start this back up again, even though KC has clinched a playoff spot, seeding is still going to be a factor.  KC is still also fighting for the Supporters' Shield, and don't forget that MLS Cup this year is hosted by the team with the most points between the two competing teams.  So here's a look at today's games.

Toronto at New York
What we want - Toronto win.

As unlikely as that is, we want Toronto to pull off the win against the Red Bulls.  The Red Bulls sit 8 points back of KC with 4 games left.  A loss by New York means that KC would need to pick up just two more points (or have New York drop 2 more) to guarantee finishing ahead of the Red Bulls.

Philadelphia at Columbus
What we want - Philadelphia win

Neither of these two teams can catch Sporting after their win last night.  Both though are fighting for their playoff lives.  Philadelphia is in a much more precarious situation and needs help to even get into the playoffs.  But I'd rather play Philadelphia than the Crew, hence the selection.  Although an argument could be made for a Columbus win so that they're closer to clinching by the team we go there later this season.

New England at Houston
What we want - New England win or draw

Houston can still mathematically catch KC on points, so any more dropped points by them guarantees KC a top 4 spot in the East. A win or draw by New England in Houston guarantees the play-in game at home should KC slip up in their final 3 games. 

Seattle at Vancouver
What we want - Vancouver win

Who doesn't like watching Seattle lose?  A loss by the Sounders is also good for hosting honors of MLS Cup should both teams make it.  A loss leaves Seattle 10 points back of KC with 4 games remaining for the Sounders.  So a win by the Whitecaps would almost put Seattle in KC's review mirror entirely for points.

Salt Lake at Chivas USA
What we want - Chivas win

Same as with Seattle, a loss by Salt Lake keeps them trailing KC in terms of points.  In fact a win by Chivas means that Salt Lake could only equal KC's point total.

DC at Portland
What we want - Portland win

Similar to New York, DC is sitting on 50 points in the East.  Dropped points by them, combined with New York, would put KC on the verge of clinching a top 2 spot in the East.

Dallas at San Jose
What we want - Dallas win

If KC want the Supporters' Shield they need to be Dallas fans tonight.  They need the Earthquakes to start dropping points.  Dallas is in decent form lately but going on the road against San Jose is a tough ask.