MLS Week 34 Power Rankings – Obligatory obituaries
Elite Eight
8. team. 370. FC Dallas rode the catbird seat of the Western Conference table for 33 weeks basically. Now, instead of home field advantage and a bye, FC Dallas may have to win a playoff match just to see the second round. With a loss and the wrong results, FC Dallas will go from first last week to the fifth seed in the West. Recent results inspire little confidence that the Hoops can circle the wagons.. 16-8-9. Previous: 6th. FC Dallas
7. team. 375. Portland likely chopped down Real Salt Lake’s season with the 3-0 home win. Steve Clark and Diego Chara will carry this team to the finish line. Diego Valeri and Sebastian Blanco will do the celebrating at the end.. 15-9-9. Previous: 10th. Portland Timbers
373. The Supporters’ Shield is still a possibility, as long as New York can win at home against Orlando. Sure, Atlanta needs to drop points, but the Red Bulls need to focus on their form throughout the playoffs. They beat the Union, but barely. Philadelphia isn’t a constant threat, but the Red Bulls gave up some easy chances while passing up good opportunities of their own. They may not be so lucky in knockout soccer.. 21-7-5. Previous: 1st. New York Red Bulls. 2. team