For Chivas USA head coach Preki, the 2009 season has been about juggling more than planning. "Once again, we changed three players from last week," Preki said. "That's been our story. But nevertheless, our mentality is good. We're fighting for each other, we're working for each other, and it seems to be working for us."

Securing a play off spot with a 1-0 away win against fellow berth contenders San Jose Earthquakes through an eight minute Justin Braun goal, Preki said: "It's an important goal, but still you have to play with a lead for 80-plus minutes. I thought we did a pretty decent job.

"I give full credit to our guys. We never panicked. We fought, we defended when we needed to, we created a couple chances, and we're happy to take three points and qualify for the playoffs."

Chivas USA will have to wait until the last game of the season to see who they will face first in the play off series due in a couple of weeks.

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