MLS, Week 27: Chris Wondolowski Leads Quakes Past Sounders

The heat of the playoff race is starting to show for several clubs.

Week 27 proved to be a tough one for several clubs that were in need of points. Teams like the New York Red Bulls, the Houston Dynamo and the Columbus Crew all stumbled when it mattered most this weekend.

Juninho continued his fine run of play in the 11th minute with the opening goal. After a foul just outside the box, Juninho curled the ball around the wall while a bewildered Freddy Hall watched as the ball found the net for the opening tally.

The Brazilian wasn’t done, though. In the 33rd minute he hit an absolute rocket from 30 yards that left Hall no chance. The ball found the upper corner for an amazing goal that put LA two goals up.

The draw extends New York’s winless streak at New England to 16 matches. They last beat the Revs away on June 29, 2002.

Morales won another free kick outside the penalty area in the 35th minute. This time only he lined up to take the kick. Morales sent in a perfect free kick that struck the back of the net before Bendik lifted a hand. Just like that, Salt Lake was up 2-0.

Fabian Espindola had several opportunities to score another goal, but he could not finish to save his life. He found himself one on one with Bendik multiple times throughout the second half, but he couldn’t beat him.

Despite the Impact needing three points, neither side seemed intent on pushing the action. The Impact did have the better chances, though, and had a strong argument for a penalty late in the match when a Sporting KC defender got his arm on the ball as he slid toward the endline. The referee ruled the contact incidental.