Austin FC rallies to beat Sporting KC, keep slim MLS playoff hopes alive

One down, three to go - and some help - for Austin FC .

The Verde and Black's MLS playoff hopes hinge on a four-game winning streak and a lot of friendly results elsewhere around the league to end the year, but Austin FC took the first step in that unlikely process Saturday.

Myrto Uzuni scored twice in the final 30 minutes as the Verde and Black rallied for a 2-1 win over Sporting Kansas City at Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kansas.

Uzuni now has 13 goals across all competitions, including nine in MLS play, which leads the club.

It was a mostly good showing for Austin FC, though it was a bit lucky in the final 15 minutes when Kansas City failed to finish some chances, most notably Stephen Afrifa sending a shot inside the Verde and Black's six-yard box wide of the goal. Austin FC had 56% of possession and finished with an expected goals stat of 1.77, according to the Apple TV broadcast.

The club also won with backup goalie Damian Las playing.

Afrifa put Kansas City ahead early in the second half with a well-taken shot in the box.

Austin FC (8-13-10, 34 points, 14th West) plays Wednesday at home against Real Salt Lake.