In the first leg of the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, the Columbus Crew will host the red hot New England Revolution. For Columbus, this is their first playoff appearance since 2011. And also marks head coach Gregg Berhalter’s first playoff experience in MLS. On the other side, the New England Revolution is making their second appearance in as many seasons after missing the postseason every year since 2009. Tensions will rise. 

For Columbus, this is a chance to prove that they are not done yet. An expected sellout will sure give hope, and faith in the Columbus Crew squad. With a new manager, new owner, and new coach, it's starting to show off that the "New Crew" will definitely make an impact in the MLS Cup playoffs.

One key to victory: Strength. Strength will be a key factor in this matchup. It's not regular season anymore. And one player to look for in this team is goalkeeper Steve Clark. Although Clark gets hardly any recognition, he will come up huge for Columbus and make key saves. 

On the other side, New England Revolution are ending their regular season on an excellent note. Finishing second in the Eastern Conference, the red hot Revolution will play with quickness, and aggressiveness. Head coach Jay Heaps will know how to break down the Columbus Crew defense, as they did in their final meeting during the regular season, winning 2-1 at Gillette Stadium. Lee Nguyen will make an impact on the Revolution midfield, with his precise passing, and accelerated shooting. Not to mention Jermaine Jones will be somewhere in the mix. 

Drew Fischer will get the call in the middle for this game. Alongside him will be his two assistants, Joe Fletcher -- a well-known referee for his performance as assistant to Mark Geiger during the 2014 FIFA World Cup held in Brazil this past summer, -- and Claudiu Badea. On the board as fourth official, Fotis Bazakos. 

Prediction: With high stakes on this game, this will be a massive shootout between both teams, giving their all. With a 2-1 lead on aggregate heading into the second leg, Columbus will win this match. 

Columbus Crew SC 2-1 New England Revolution