Football Season Review

Sporting Kansas City returned back to the top of the Western Conference following another solid campaign but fell short in the playoffs where they failed to progress beyond the Conference semifinals following a disappointing display. Having missed out on the playoffs for the first time this decade last season, Kansas were keen to make amends and were quick out of their blocks, winning four of their first five games. However a dip in form followed once regular season resumed following the MLS is Back tournament with Kansas winning just two of the nine games before a timely return to form in the final weeks saw them quickly climb the Western Conference standings to finish the regular season in the first place. Kansas' season was disrupted by injuries to key players with Felipe Gutierrez ruled out for the season even before the first game had kicked off while Pulido was limited to just 13 starts. There were injury problems in the midfield as well while Zusi also missed the final weeks of the season. Kansas did try to plug the holes with Busio enjoying another solid season while Russell put up some consistent displays in the attack, ending the season with six goals and four assists. In the playoffs Kansas had to rely on a penalty shootout to see off San Jose Earthquakes in the first round before an off-day meant they suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat to Minnesota United in the Conference semifinals to draw a decent campaign to a close. Kansas do have the team to challenge for the top once again this season though they remain a bit weak in the center of the defense while fitness will remain key for their prospects next season.

Player of the Season: Johnny Russell