MLS: Galaxy seal playoff spot

The LA Galaxy secured a place in the Major League Soccer playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids on Friday.

Landon Donovan’s goal in the 36th minute proved to be the difference between the two teams at the Home Depot Centre.

Colorado were without Drew Moor through suspension, the first time the right back has missed a match since August 2009.

Galaxy took advantage of his absence to dominate from the outset.

Paolo Cardozo, making just his third start of the season and first since July 9, impressed in particular.

The Uruguay midfielder had five shots in the opening 30 minutes, drawing important saves from Rapids goalkeeper Matt Pickens.

After Cardozo had softened up the Colorado defence, the hosts made the breakthrough with eight minutes remaining until half-time.

Chad Barrett did well to stay onside as he received a through-ball, before finding Sean Franklin, who in turn picked out Donovan inside the box.

Unmarked, the USA international dispatched a shot beyond Pickens and into the far corner of the net.

The Rapids only managed one shot on target throughout the first half, but on 56 minutes they looked to have equalised.

Wells Thompson beat Donovan Ricketts in the Galaxy goal, but his strike was ruled to be offside.

The Rapids enjoyed more of the ball following the introduction of Omar Cummings off the bench, but they proved unable to threaten with any regularity.

The win means the Galaxy continue to top the Western Conference by seven points.

They are now guaranteed to feature in the post-season, with an MLS Cup final at their own Home Depot Centre surely the target.

The Rapids are fifth in the Western Conference, inside the playoff places and nine points ahead of the Portland Timbers in sixth.