MLS: Los Angeles 2, Toronto FC 1

CARSON, Calif., Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Edson Buddle scored in the 79th minute Saturday night, as the Los Angeles Galaxy topped Toronto FC, 2-1.

The surging Galaxy (9-13-6) moved within four points of Chicago and Kansas City with their fifth straight victory, and stayed alive in the race to secure an MLS playoff berth.

They did it without star midfielder David Beckham, who has not played since Aug. 29 because of a lingering left-ankle injury.

Toronto FC (6-17-6), which long since was out of the playoff chase, got its only goal from Collin Samuel in the 68th minute, and suffered the fourth loss in its last five games.