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MLS Week 30: A Look Ahead

Wondolowski (Getty)

By TRAVIS CLARK

Heading into the final weekend of MLS action, and not a single playoff spot is up for grabs.

So why tune in to the last go-round before the race for MLS Cup starts? Well, the Supporters' Shield still needs to be settled, for starters, as well as some tussling to determine postseason matchups that will get underway next week.

The Golden Boot race is also coming down to the last weekend, with Chris Wondolowski tied for the goal-scoring lead with Edson Buddle at 17. Wondolowski's Quakes play in Kansas City, while the Galaxy host FC Dallas out in California.

Here's a look at the final weekend of MLS action:

Saturday

SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC (14-9-6) vs. HOUSTON DYNAMO (8-15-6), 4:00 p.m., Telefutura

Seattle's regular season is coming to a close with the Sounders peaking at the right time. Winners of five straight, Seattle should have no trouble against a Houston team that is missing out on the playoffs for the first time since they set up shop in Texas four years ago.

TORONTO FC (8-13-8) vs. D.C. UNITED (6-19-4), 7:30 p.m.

The sun sets on a storied MLS career in D.C., as Jaime Moreno will get a sendoff against Toronto FC. Neither team has anything to play for aside from pride in this one as both look towards brighter fortunes in 2011.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES (13-9-7) vs. KANSAS CITY WIZARDS (10-13-6), 8:30 p.m.

Wondolowski gets one final chance to impress MVP voters and push for the Golden Boot, while the Wizards play what could be their last came at Community America Ballpark. Only a loss by Seattle earlier in the day would give San Jose the ability to switch playoff position as well.

REAL SALT LAKE (15-4-10) vs. COLORADO RAPIDS (12-8-9), 9:00 p.m.

The Rocky Mountain Cup will be settled in Colorado, and a win for RSL would set them up to possibly secure the Supporters' Shield. Jason Kreis' club has had a remarkable year — only 18 goals conceded in league play all year, and are looking very much the favorite to repeat as MLS Cup champs. The Rapid send their dynamic duo of Conor Casey and Omar Cummings as they look for a big win ahead of the playoffs.

CHICAGO FIRE (8-12-9) vs. CHIVAS USA (8-17-4), 11:00 p.m., FSC/FSE

Calling their season a disappointment only grazes the surface when discussing Chicago's 2010. Cut an established goalie, brought in a new coach and expensive DPs, and missed the playoffs for just the second time in the club's history. They'll take on Chivas USA, who will bid farewell to Jonathan Bornstein Saturday night.

Sunday

PHILADELPHIA UNION (8-14-7) vs. COLUMBUS CREW (13-8-8), 4:00 p.m.

Philadelphia closes out their first season on the road, and can be proud of their accomplishments despite falling short of the playoffs. Columbus would do well to win — it would be their first league win in October — giving them some much needed momentum heading into the playoffs.

FC DALLAS (12-3-14) vs. LOS ANGELES GALAXY (17-7-5), 8:00 p.m.

With FCD's unbetean streak ended, and they'll look to grab three points out in Carson to avoid being passed by Seattle in the playoff standings. Schellas Hyndman will no doubt look to keep his regulars healthy, as Buddle shoots for the Golden Boot and Los Angeles can lock up the Supporters' Shield with a win.

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What games will you watch this weekend? What are the best games to watch? Who will win the Golden Boot?

Share your thoughts below.

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