Washington, D.C. (My Sportsbook) - D.C. United stayed alive for another week, topping the Columbus Crew, 1-0, in Major League Soccer action at RFK Stadium on Saturday night.

With the win, United is now tied with New England and Toronto for the final spot in the 2009 MLS Cup playoffs.

Luciano Emilio scored the game's lone goal, his 10th of the season, just 17 minutes in, and goalkeeper Steve Cronin made six saves to earn the clean sheet for the home side.

Emilio's goal was scored after Thabiso Khumalo sliced through the defense in the offensive third and played a perfect through-ball to the Brazilian, who touched the ball just over goalkeeper Will Hesmer. The ball just dribbled over the goal line before the defense could clear, ensuring United would take the early lead.

Columbus' comeback chances were dealt a blow in the 83rd minute when Edgar Renteria was shown a straight red card for a violent tackle to the back of the legs of a D.C. player.

United (9-8-12) will aim to clinch a spot in the playoffs when it travels to Kansas City on Saturday to close out its regular season, while Columbus (13-6-10) finished its regular season at home vs. New England the next day.