The Daily Dirt, October 2: Funhouse

With most teams down to two games remaining in MLS, the playoff picture is starting to come into focus.

In the Eastern Conference, there are battles at the top and bottom to keep an eye on as the season concludes. Both New York teams sit on top of the conference after wins this weekend, with the Red Bulls owning a superior goal differential than their cross town rivals. Toronto’s loss at home to DC United has them two points back in third place.

Orlando and Montreal play this afternoon. The Lions almost have to win out to get in as they sit six points behind the Impact, who are currently occupying the final spot. New England is only two points back after their 3-1 win last night over Kansas City, and Columbus is not quite done yet. They are level with Orlando, but have an extra game remaining.

Dallas moved five points clear in the Supporters’ Shield race with a clutch 1-0 win the Galaxy. The Rapids have two games in hand and sit five points behind Dallas in the Shield and Western Conference races. LA can’t catch Dallas now, but still have a shot to move into second place if Colorado slips up.

Seattle plays Vancouver tonight, and the Sounders have the opportunity to solidify their playoff spot with a win. The Whitecaps have to win to remain in striking distance of the sixth position. Kansas City and Portland’s losses make the final spots in the conference very attainable at this point.

Domestic

Red Bulls match NYCFC with a 3-2 win over Philadelphia (Once a Metro)

Sporting Kansas City’s collapse continues, New England beats them 3-1 to keep their hopes alive (The Bent Musket)

DC United moves into fourth place in the East with a surprising 2-1 win Toronto (Black and Red United)

Columbus thrashes Chicago 3-0 (Massive Report)

Dallas continues their chase for the Supporters’ Shield with a 1-0 win over the Galaxy (Big D Soccer)

Rapids earn a playoff spot with their 1-0 win over Portland (Burgundy Wave)

Jeff Cassar blasts RSL’s “80%” effort in their 2-1 loss to San Jose (RSL Soapbox)

Manchester United scouting Vancouver’s phenom Alphonso Davies (The Province)

International

Roberto Di Matteo in trouble at Aston Villa (Telegraph)

Let’s check in on the action in the French 5th Division:

Local

The Clayton State men dropped a 5-3 decision to Francis Marion yesterday.