Vancouver Whitecaps defeat Houston Dynamo to secure semi-final place

Vancouver Whitecaps have beaten Houston Dynamo 2-0 to secure a place in the MLS Western Conference playoff semi-final.

Octavio Rivero had the game's first shot on goal in the third minute when his header was saved by Joe Willis.

Matias Laba called Willis into action again just a minute later, and Vancouver's early dominance continued when Cristian Techera's shot rebounded off the crossbar.

Former Derby County player Giles Barnes has been a key player for Houston Dynamo this season, but his shot was stopped by David Ousted in the 21st minute.

Kekuta Manneh scored the winner on the hour mark, directing the ball into the bottom left corner from long range.

Kendall Waston secured the win in the 72nd minute when he headed in from Techera's cross.

The Canadians added a third in stoppage time when Robert Earnshaw, who had just come on moments before, headed into the bottom right corner.

Vancouver now turn their attentions toward the playoff semi-final next weekend.