The Philadelphia Union punched their ticket to the MLS Cup playoffs on Saturday, beating FC Cincinnati 1-0 on a goal from Bruno Damiani and hanging on with 10 men to dent Cincinnati's Supporters' Shield hopes.

Both clubs had a chance to secure a playoff berth, with Philadelphia coming into the contest atop the Eastern Conference standings two points ahead of Cincy.

The victory, coupled with New York Red Bulls' scoreless draw with Columbus, was enough to ensure Philadelphia will be back in the playoffs after seeing a six-year run of post-season appearances end last year.

"It's big," said Milan Iloski, who lofted a ball from the left that Damiani rose and twisted to head home from the center of the box in the 49th minute.

"We want to be in the playoffs, we want to win championships," Ilo

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