3 things we learned in MLS this weekend: A playoff berth is not easily earned
With another weekend of MLS action in the books, we take a look back at some of what we learned from the latest slate of matches
Orlando City isn't done fighting just yet
Toronto FC made short work of the Philadelphia Union, eliminating them from playoff contention. The Columbus Crew had just faltered against the New York Red Bulls, and the New England Revolution had a game against the Chicago Fire in a few hours' time.
Since D.C. United beat New York City FC on Friday night, Saturday's action centered on Orlando City's home game against the Montreal Impact. A Montreal win would secure a playoff berth for the Impact, as well as for Toronto, New England, and Columbus.
Related: Orlando City makes final playoff push with statement win over Montreal Impact
Montreal lost, and Orlando City served notice that it isn't going to keel over and die. The Lions have fight in them yet, and with two games left in the season, Kaka and his teammates won't let their playoff hopes burn out. Playoffs don't come easy in a league built around parity, after all.
Over in the west, the Vancouver Whitecaps were denied early qualification in a draw against the San Jose Earthquakes. The Whitecaps needed a win to qualify. New England stumbled against Chicago, too, losing 3-1 to the Eastern Conference bottom-dwellers.
Many teams could have qualified this weekend; very few actually did.
Qualification comes to those who deserve it
If you want an early spot in the MLS playoffs, you have to earn it.
That's exactly what FC Dallas, the LA Galaxy, and D.C. United did this weekend, securing postseason berths by winning their respective matchups.
D.C. United got the job done in dramatic fashion against expansion outfit New York City FC, with Alvaro Saborio scoring in extra time to secure a 2-1 win in the rain at RFK Stadium.
Dallas needed a Texas derby day win over fierce rival Houston Dynamo, and put up a 3-1 victory. The goal that secured the win was a thing of beauty, too, David Texeira smacking home a rocket shot to send his team into post-season bliss.
The Galaxy needed a win or a draw against the Seattle Sounders - they got the latter, picking up one point away from home to secure its own playoff spot in the West. They'll now look to repeat their MLS Cup-winning heroics of last year.
Landon Donovan is enjoying his retirement
When former Galaxy captain Landon Donovan announced his retirement at only 32 years of age, many wondered what the U.S. national team star would get up to in his spare time.
This week, Donovan revealed some of his retirement plans, which may or may not include a switch from futbol to football as he volunteered to take over kicking duty for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
He was also spotted out on the greens playing golf in a rather bright-colored get up. Life is good for Donovan, but let's see if that playing itch returns when the MLS Cup gets going once more.