Not one team, even New York Red Bulls, despite them not losing to a team yet, has scored more goals than Columbus Crew SC. This team clicks like no other, and it's lethal when they are on the same page. In seven matches, Crew have scored a total of 12 goals. Not impressed? They've conceded only five goals so far this season. And in the past two matches, both wins over opponents such as Orlando City and Philadelphia Union, they scored seven goals alone. And gave up one. 

Taking 104 shots this season, they have the highest percentage of average shots per game, coming in at 15%. So, one key to the recent success is definitely goal scoring. 

Another, is the precision passing. In their last four matches, Columbus have made an overall passing percentage of over 70% in each game. Combined, their average passing total is about 83% (82.5 to be exact, but who's counting?) Passing sparked out the "OLE's!" in their last match. Who would ever know that Columbus Crew SC is a great passing and scoring team? 

And what are goals without assists? 

Columbus Crew SC are phenomenal with assists on goals. Just ask Ethan Finaly, who leads the team with 3 assists. And he also has two game-winning assists in those three. It's just another simple positive asset that Columbus Crew SC carries with them. 

They are slowly becoming the team to beat. Teams would love to end Columbus' run so far. With a win over DC United this week, they will be tied with New York Red Bulls for first place. 

Last season, Crew hired a new manager in Gregg Berhalter. A slumping season start, was then answered by then making the MLS Cup Playoffs in Berhalters' first year at the reigns of the squad, finishing third in the Eastern Conference. 

So, to put it into perspective, the factors that are behind Columbus Crew SCs' recent success so far are: goal scoring, assists, and passing. The three basic keys to any other game. Only, this team is showing how its done. 

VAVEL Logo
About the author
Tyler Fisher
Contributor to Last Word On Sports. Main editor for USMNT and MLS content on VAVEL USA.