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In an ironic scenario brought on by the fixture computers, the Colorado Rapids have an odd end to the 2013 regular season. The Rocky Mountain club will face the Vancouver Whitecaps at home on October 19th, and then again on Sunday, October 27th at the BC Place in the regular season finale. It is almost like an MLS playoff series - except that it's not...it is the final two matches for both clubs of the 2013 season.
Colorado (13-10-9) are on the verge of securing a playoff spot but were beaten by a San Jose on October 9th. The Earthquakes are actually just 1 point behind the Rapids. Dillon Powers is not expected to play on Saturday evening as the MLS Rookie of the Year contender has been having concussion-like symptoms. The Rapids previously defeated the Whitecaps 2-0 at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in mid-August.
Vancouver (12-11-9) are still in the Western Conference playoff race. While it is unlikely the British Columbia club will qualify for the postseason, there is still a chance mathematically that they can sneak into the playoffs. Vancouver has been impressive in their last two road matches, a 3-0 win over Montreal Impact, and then a 4-1 victory over Seattle at CenturyLink Field.
A sellout crowd is expected on Saturday evening as the Rapids will look to take a big step in qualifying for the playoffs. Should Colorado win over Vancouver, and Los Angeles Galaxy defeat San Jose, the Rapids will clinch at least 5th place in the Western Conference, and thus guaranteeing themselves a wild-card berth.