With the Audi 2016 MLS Cup Playoffs race heating up, the Colorado Rapids did well to clinch their spot in the postseason by grinding down the Portland Timbers 1-0 at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on Saturday night.
The lone goal came from some fancy footwork on the ball by Marlon Hairston to beat two defenders en route to Sebastian Le Toux finishing the play in the penalty area.
With Sporting Kansas City's earlier loss, the Rapids were able to clinch a playoff berth with either a win or draw. This will be the first postseason appearance for the Rapids since 2013.
Box Score
- 63' - COL - Sebastian Le Toux (Dominique Badji, Marlon Hairston)
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Three Things
- THIS FEELS FAMILIAR: The Timbers haven't won on the road this season (0-10-3) and the Rapids remain unbeaten at home – keeping clean sheets in 10 of 15 games at DSG Park this season. Saturday's 1-0 script was one Rapids fans have seen often this year: five times to date.
- THIS ISN'T SO FAMILIAR: The match did have a rare moment: a bench player getting a yellow card. In the 77th minute, Rapids backup 'keeper Zac MacMath was given a yellow card for withholding the ball on a throw-in, delaying the game. MacMath has gotten one start since Tim Howard made his debut, a 2-0 away loss to New England back on September 3rd.
- OPEN THAT ACCOUNT: Le Toux's goal was his first since joining the Colorado Rapids in a trade just ahead of the transfer window deadline. He also had the best Rapids chance in the first half, a headed attempt that went just over the bar from close range.
They Said It
