Midway through the regular season, the USL’s standings are at a point where the clear hierarchy between the teams at the top of each conference are becoming apparent, as are the contenders for the remaining places in the playoffs at the end of the season.

After this weekend’s results, the two separate races became more distinct, with wins by teams like Cincinnati, Charleston and each of the top three in the Western Conference creating a certain amount of separation from the pack, as those in the bottom half of the playoff positions in both conferences forced to settle for draws, or even having the gaps closed on them thanks to wins by teams such as San Antonio and Swope Park.

San Antonio, with its three wins, might be the team that could gain the most in the upcoming weeks, with Saturday’s clash against OKC Energy FC a crucial one as both teams look to boost their playoff prospects. As the conference leaders have proven so far, though, finding ways to pick up victories – even when a draw seems likely – is the quickest way to make sure you’re not only in the field when the postseason arrives, but in with a chance of a clear path to the championship.

Here’s the new Top 10.

1. Louisville City FC (Previous: 1)

Last Week: Bye

Louisville will kick off Week 16 with the knowledge it can extend its lead at the top of the Eastern Conference with a win against FC Montreal after the New York Red Bulls II were held to a scoreless draw by the Rochester Rhinos.

2. Sacramento Republic FC (Previous: 3)

Last Week: W 2-1 vs. Seattle Sounders FC 2

Sacramento’s undefeated streak moved to nine games on Saturday night thanks to Mike Da Fonte’s 78th-minute winner against Seattle, and while there might have been a little frustration on Coach Paul Buckle’s end that his side didn’t put the game away sooner with the chances it created the fact remains that Sacramento created good chances throughout the game. A midweek clash with Real Monarchs SLC, which has proved a thorn in Republic FC’s side before, should be one to watch on Wednesday.