The Portland Timbers had a full stadium of fans trying to will them to a victory they sorely needed to keep their playoff hopes in good shape. Unfortunately for the Timbers, the Houston Dynamo were also hungry for a victory to boost their playoff prospects.
Houston put together a strong performance on the road for the second straight time, riding an Andre Hainault goal and a stunning long-range blast from Danny Cruz to post a 2-0 victory over the Timbers on Friday night.
The win pushed the Dynamo into second place in the Eastern Conference, while the loss pushed the Timbers to the brink of playoff elimination. Portland most record road wins against D.C. United and Real Salt Lake, and then get some help, to get into the post-season.
Meanwhile, in Colorado the Rapids missed a chance to grab a strong hold of a home wild card game as Real Salt Lake halted a four-match losing skid with a 0-0 draw at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. RSL goalkeeper Nick Rimando recorded his MLS-leading 14th shutout of the season to help RSL move three points clear of FC Dallas for third place in the West.
Colorado still hasn't secured a playoff berth, but can do so with a win against Vancouver in its regular-season finale.
What did you think of Friday's matches? Disappointed with Portland's performance? Think the Dynamo can make some noise in the playoffs? See Real Salt Lake straightening out and making a strong playoff run?
Share your thoughts below.