Colorado Rapids clinch playoff berth with Le Toux-inspired win over Portland
The Colorado Rapids are the latest team to clinch a spot in the 2016 MLS playoffs after picking up a 1-0 win over the Portland Timbers at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Saturday, courtesy of a 63rd-minute goal from Sebastien Le Toux.
Needing at least one point and other results to go their way, the Rapids went about their business with little fuss, getting all three points in a straightforward victory over the 2015 MLS Cup champions.
While the Rapids celebrate a playoff berth, the Timbers fall further down the standings, still below the red line in the Western Conference and out of the post-season. Should the Seattle Sounders defeat the Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday, the Timbers would need to overcome a three-point gap in just two remaining matches to sneak in.
The Rapids, meanwhile, have their eyes firmly rooted to the MLS Supporters' Shield, and will need to overtake FC Dallas atop the standings with a pair of games in hand. Four matches remain in the Rapids' 2016 campaign, while Dallas has just two.
The New York Red Bulls, New York City FC, LA Galaxy, and Toronto FC are also in the Supporters' Shield hunt.
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