After a lengthy layoff due to the FIFA international break, the MLS got back into action this week. Week 33 saw movement all over the Eastern Conference. Here is your penultimate MLS playoff picture update:
Clinched:
This Week: New York Red Bulls – 3 vs. Columbus Crew – 2
Next Match: Sunday October 23 at Philadelphia
The Red Bulls extended their franchise best unbeaten streak to 15 games after their 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew. Bradley Wright-Phillips scored a brace to pace the Red Bulls on Sunday afternoon. The two goals moved Wright-Phillips into sole possession of the Golden Boot lead. The win also all but officially secured the Red Bulls the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
Of course HE did. @TheRealBWP doubles the lead for #RBNY. #NYvCLBhttps://t.co/DgHf3p8VKT
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 16, 2016
This Week: NYCFC – 1 at D.C. United – 3
Next Match: Sunday October 23 vs. Columbus Crew
A familiar face burned New York City FC on Sunday. Patrick Mullins, who was traded to D.C in July, scored the opener and assisted on the final goal as City’s defensive woes continued. David Villa converted a penalty kick to keep pace with the Red Bulls' Bradley Wright-Phillips. New York City still controls its own destiny as a win on decision day will secure them the second spot in the East.
This Week: TFC – 2 at Orlando City – 2
Next Match: Sunday October 23 vs. Chicago Fire
For the first time since August 27, all three designated players were able to start for the Reds. Sebastian Giovinco was able to play the full 90 minutes in his return to action on Sunday. Jozy Altidore and Tosaint Ricketts both scored to lead the Reds. For Altidore, it was his second goal in as many games. Due to not holding the tiebreaker with New York City, the Reds will need a victory on decision day, coupled with a Columbus result, if they wish to avoid the knockout round.
Tos the boss. #TFCLive#MTLvTORpic.twitter.com/aDgMIs1D8D
— Toronto FC (@torontofc) October 16, 2016
This Week: D.C. United – 3 vs. New York City – 1,
Next Match: Sunday October 23 at Orlando City SC
Patrick Mullins scored and added an assist to lead United to an impressive win over New York City FC. The win also secured D.C. their third straight trip to the MLS Cup playoffs. Lyod Sam also scored a goal and added a helper in the victory. D.C. is catching fire at the right time and have now won four straight games.
.@pmullins14 CAN'T STOP SCORING. #DCvNYChttps://t.co/mQwejZcwQk
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 16, 2016
This Week: Montreal – 2 vs. Toronto FC – 2
Next Match: Sunday October 23 at New England Revolution
Despite blowing two leads to arch rivals Toronto FC, the Impact was still able to clinch a playoff spot. Nacho Piatti continued his MVP-caliber performance scoring two goals in the match. However, the Impact were without superstar Didier Drogba, who reportedly refused to show up to the match after being told he was not in the starting XI.
Nacho. Piatti. What more can you say? #MTLvTORhttps://t.co/FCR37iDLmb
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) October 16, 2016
Safe Bet:
This Week: Philadelphia Union – 0 vs Orlando City – 2
Next Match: Sunday October 23 vs. New York Red Bulls
The Union failed to clinch a playoff spot this week after their 2-0 defeat to Orlando City. However, due to a New England loss the team has all but qualified for the playoffs. Jim Curtin’s side has struggled down the stretch and has now lost two straight and are winless since August 27.
Long Shots:
This Week: New England – 1 at Chicago – 2
Next Match: Sunday October 23 vs Montreal
The Revolution squandered a great opportunity to move back into the playoff picture this weekend. However, the Revs were unable to get a result against the last place Chicago Fire. New England will now need a win on decision day, and a record result if they wish to make the playoffs this season.
Eliminated:
This Week: Orlando City – 2 at Philadelphia – 0,
Next Match: Sunday October 23 vs. D.C. United
The Lions were able to get three points for the first time in over a month on Sunday. Carlos Rivas and Julio Baptista both scored to pace the Lions. Orlando City will now try to play spoiler when they take on D.C. United on decision day.
This Week: Columbus Crew – 2 at Chicago Fire – 2, Columbus Crew– 2 vs. NYRB – 3
Next Match: Sunday October 23 at New York City FC
The Crew saw their slim playoff chances slip away after a disappointing midweek draw against the Chicago Fire. Adam Jahn had a good week scoring three goals in the two games.
This Week: Chicago Fire – 2 vs. Columbus – 2, Chicago Fire – 2 vs. New England – 1
Next Match: Sunday October 23 at Toronto FC
The Fire snapped a six game winless streak with their victory over New England. The Fire got goals from Michael de Leeuw and David Accam to beat the Revolution. De Leeuw also scored in the team's midweek draw against Columbus.
Stay tuned for weekly MLS playoff picture updates here at torontofc.ca
