Power Rankings

MLS Power Rankings

1. New England Revolution - Fickle? Yes, but I never claimed otherwise. The Earthquakes couldn't muster more than a point against a resting FC Dallas squad, while New England shut down the Metrostars defensively, taking three critical points in a 1-0 victory. However, the Galaxy's victory over the Wizards buys the Metrostars more time, still three points back in the East.

2. San Jose Earthquakes - As mentioned above, the Earthquakes could only draw a point against Dallas at home this weekend. Eddie Robinson was sent off, but Brian Ching came through with an absolutely clutch goal to secure the point. San Jose's play has looked tepid lately and unless Dominic Kinnear begins mixing things up, this team might be headed for trouble (read, the 2002 San Jose Earthquakes). A healthy Brad Davis would be a start though.

3. D.C. United - A valiant effort in Sudamerica play in midweek wasn't enough to advance. On the one hand, it might give the club some confidence and focus, but it could also hurt team morale. If United play the game like we all know they can though, there are very few teams in the league that can actually stop them.

4. FC Dallas - A point (nearly three) on the road at hostile Spartan Stadium? Yes, and without their big guns, that's impressive.

5. Chicago Fire - A team whose primary scoring threat is a rookie can't possibly be that good can it? Well, I don't want to draw comparisons to the 2003 Fire because this team isn't nearly as good or cohesive, but Chris Rolfe is integral to this team's success. They looked toothless against San Jose on Wednesday night as San Jose gifted them possession throughout most of the second half, yet the Fire could do little with it. Still unsecure for the playoffs.

6. LA Galaxy - A win is a win, however unconvincing. The big test is the Open Cup Final Wednesday night which it's clear both teams are taking very seriously. How Steve Sampson coaches that one game will determine the Galaxy's future this season.

7. Metrostars - Oh how the mighty have fallen, but this team is still very much in the playoff picture, still only three points behind the Kansas City Wizards.

8. Kansas City Wizards - This is a team that's fading fast. The defense has looked porous (what was all this about Jimmy Conrad for Defender of the Year?) and the offense seems to have shut down (along with Chris Klein and Scott Sealy's offensive production, coincidence?) which bodes ill for not only Kansas City's playoff run but for their hopes of making the playoffs at all.

9. Colorado Rapids - They got a big win over Chivas, with Jovan Kirovski making an immediate impact on the side. However, things have gotten rough between coach Fernando Clavijo and striker Jeff Cuningham. If things get worse, not only will Cunningham be putting his World Cup hopes on the line, but he'll be putting the entire team's postseason hopes on the line as well. On the bright side, they proved that they can win without Joe Cannon.

10. Columbus Crew - Still winning and getting points for their interim head coach when they've been practically eliminated from playoff contention. It's wonderful to see Edson Buddle back scoring goals, which should do wonders for the young man's confidence, on and off the field.

11. Real Salt Lake - From bad to worse.

12. CD Chivas USA - (See above).