Starting XI, presented by StorageMart, is a biweekly series on SportingKC.com that highlights 11 of the biggest storylines and news updates from Sporting Kansas City, MLS and soccer around the globe. Click here to visit the Starting XI archive.
1. Caging the Lions
Sporting KC (14-7-6, 48 points) claimed a 1-0 victory over Orlando City SC (7-17-3, 24 points) on Saturday night at Children’s Mercy Park to move within a point of first place in the Western Conference. Midfielder Felipe Gutierrez bagged the game-winner in the 53rd minute, his sixth goal of the season and his first since March 31, as Sporting KC leapfrogged Los Angeles Football Club for second place in the West and closed the gap on leaders FC Dallas.