Los Angeles Galaxy have failed to keep pace with second-placed Seattle Sounders in the MLS Western Conference by falling to a 1-0 defeat at home to the Colorado Rapids.
With Rave Green edging out Chicago Fire thanks to a late own goal at Centurylink Field, Bruce Arena's men needed a win to stay in touch, but lost out to an Edson Buddle goal 15 minutes from the end.
It was Vicente Sanchez who set up the goal after winning possession deep in the Galaxy half.
He then found the 32-year-old American international, who unleashed a shot that beat Brian Rowe from 22 yards out.
Galaxy had plenty of efforts on goal throughout the evening, but it ultimately ended in frustration as they were unable to beat Rapids goalkeeper Clinton Irwin.
The result moves Oscar Pareja's men to within one point of the Californian outfit.
Michael Penkman
