Defending Champs Out of Playoffs

Khodadad Azizi scored in the 53rd minute as the San Jose Earthquakes ended a six-game losing streak Saturday night before 14,138, at Washington with a 1-0 victory over the D.C. United, eliminating the defending MLS champions from playoff contention.

The United (6-16-6), who also won the first two MLS championships in 1996 and 1997, failed to make the playoffs for the first time in league history. D.C. was the runner-up to Chicago in 1998.

Azizi drove to the right side of the United goal and struck a left-footed shot from point-blank range just inside the post.

Dan Calichman and Ryan Tinsley assisted for the Earthquakes (6-14-8), who won for only the second time on the road.

The league record for fewest wins in a season is seven, set last year by New York-New Jersey.

New England 2, Tampa Bay 1--Imad Baba broke a tie in the 88th minute before 15,129 at Foxboro, Mass.

The game was scoreless until the 77th minute, when Wolde Harris scored for the sixth straight game, converting off a cross from Baba for New England (10-11-6).

Tampa Bay (15-11-2) responded four minutes later when Steve Ralston headed in a shot off a Carlos Valderrama free kick.

Mutiny goalie Scott Garlick tied his own club record with 12 saves.