One might think with only two games remaining (for all teams except Chivas USA, who has played 27, and New York, who've played 29) in the 2009 season, the playoff picture would be fairly straight forward. If you happened to think this, however, you'd be wrong - things are not very clear at all and
the standings
are tight. With nine teams fighting for four remaining playoff spots, there are a number of different scenarios that could result in United making the post-season.
We do know that United has to win at least one of its final two games to even have a shot of making the playoffs. Following, are the different scenarios for D.C. that would result in the team extending its season.
If United earns three points in its final two games, putting the team at 39 points, here are the maximum number of points other teams could earn without catching D.C.
Revolution: 0
Salt Lake: 1
FC Dallas: 2
Toronto FC: 2
If United earns four points in its final two games, putting the team at 40 points, here are the maximum number of points other teams could earn without catching D.C.
Revolution: 1
Salt Lake: 2
FC Dallas: 3
Toronto FC: 3
If United earns six points in its final two games, putting the team at 42 points, here are the maximum number of points other teams could earn without catching D.C.
Seattle: 0
Chicago: 1
Colorado: 1
Revolution: 3
Salt Lake: 4
FC Dallas: 4
Toronto FC: 4
Matters are complicated when one considers the schedule for each of the competing teams...
Seattle (41 points)
@ KC, v. DAL
Chicago (41 points)
@ NE, v. CHV
Colorado (40 points)
@ DAL, @RSL
New England (38 points)
v. CHI, @ CLB
Real Salt Lake (37 points)
@TFC, v. COL
Dallas (36 points)
V. COL, @ SEA
D.C. United (36 points)
V. CLB, @ KC
Toronto (36 points)
V. RSL @ NYRB
These scenarios don't factor in tie-breakers in the event United ends up level on points with another team.
That said, we know what is needed from the Black-and-Red on Saturday... the full three points. At that time, we’ll will reconvene and sort details that would see United into the 2009 MLS Cup Playoffs.
