CARSON, Calif. — Conor Casey and Omar Cummings each had a goal and an assist to help the Rapids rally for a 3-1 MLS victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday night.
The Rapids (12-8-9) also benefited from an own goal in securing their first playoff spot in four years. The New England Revolution’s 1-0 victory earlier in the day over the Kansas City Wizards ensured the Rapids’ berth.
Rapids coach Gary Smith said the team did not know the Wizards result before their game started.
“We tried to take away the emotional swing of knowing that result,” Smith said. “From about 10, 12 minutes on, we really kicked it into gear. Honestly, it was a fabulous display and hopefully a view of what we are capable of.”
Edson Buddle scored for the Galaxy (17-7-5), which leads Real Salt Lake by one point with one game left in the race for the league’s best record and the Western Conference’s regular-season championship.
Casey broke a 1-1 tie in the 31st minute with his 12th goal of the season. Pablo Mastroeni secured a loose ball in midfield and freed Cummings with a pass to the right flank. Casey then converted Cummings’ crossing pass from 7 yards.
The Rapids will host the home match of the two-leg conference semifinal series sometime between Oct. 28-31.
