Sporting Kansas City’s match at Children’s Mercy Park Saturday night is a near-classic late season battle. “Near-classic” because Sporting’s playoff chances hang by a thread. But they are still alive. Their opponent, Minnesota United FC, is reeling after gaining only one point in their last four. That streak is not advised during a playoff fight. MNUFC sits in 5th right now with five teams within six points as they battle to finish in the top seven. Kansas City can certainly play spoiler while helping their own cause this night.
To put down a side that is reeling, gaining the first goal is a classic proactive push: Kick them when they are down and see their heads drop.