Earthquakes Clinch Top Spot in West

L.A. Times Archives

Sept. 25, 2005 12 AM PT

From Associated Press

Brian Ching’s sixth goal this season gave the host San Jose Earthquakes a 1-1 tie with FC Dallas on Saturday night and the top seeding in the MLS Western Conference playoffs.

The tie ended San Jose’s six-game winning streak but kept alive an 11-game unbeaten streak and the potential for an unbeaten season at home, an MLS first. The Earthquakes (16-4-9) are 9-0-6 at Spartan Stadium.

Ching’s goal came in the 68th minute, 10 minutes after midfielder Ramon Nunez gave Dallas (12-9-7) a 1-0 lead on a penalty kick.

New England 1, MetroStars 0 -- Rookie midfielder James Riley scored his first MLS goal, in the 85th minute at Foxborough, Mass., and the Revolution clinched a playoff spot.

The Revolution (16-6-7), which leads the Eastern Conference, ended a five-game unbeaten streak by the MetroStars (10-8-10).

Columbus 2, Real Salt Lake 1 -- Edson Buddle scored twice at Salt Lake City.

Buddle beat goalkeeper D.J. Countess after a pass from Kyle Martino for his second goal, just before halftime.

The Crew is 10-14-4 and Salt Lake, which got a goal from Andy Williams, is 5-19-4.