While I was off sampling the charms of San Diego for a few days (ahem), the Galaxy were busy beating an awful Dallas team in ghastly weather conditions and Chivas USA defeated a dreadful Portland Timbers side that are a walking ad for changing the MLS schedule (does anybody outside their wonderful fan base really need to see this bunch again this season?).

Watch:

As a result, the Galaxy are in a playoff spot — but Chivas USA aren’t far behind and have games in hand. See the standings.