It was a nightmare start to the 2014 MLS Cup Playoffs for the Columbus Crew. A less than ideal start finds them behind on aggregate. New England Revolution now has control of the series as they head to Gillette Stadium.
The New England Revolution found themselves on the good end of the game when Charlie Davies opened the scoring in the 34th minute off of a clever set piece sent in by Kelyn Rowe. Although Davies could have done without the robot chicken celebration dance, New England looked to build off of the lead with momentum.
Many fouls, some going uncalled, seemed to frustrate both sides in the first half. New England captain Jose Goncalves picked up the first yellow card in the game when he appeared to face wash midfielder Tony Tchani who claimed Goncalves was delaying the costless kick for the Crew. At the half, the Revolution carried the 1-0 score into the locker room.
The second half was complete disaster for Columbus Crew. Chris Tierney put his side ahead 2-0 after converting a costless kick, roughly 10 yards outside of the 18-yard box in the 51st minute. Columbus would eventually pull one back after Justin Meram slotted home a loose ball in the penalty area, up and over goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth.
Although Columbus thought they could salvage out a draw in this match, MVP candidate Lee Nguyen quickly put that thought to rest after running 80 yards and shooting a low ball into the new past Steve Clark, who made no attempt to save the shot. 3-1, in favor of the Revolution.
As more fouls, and cards were issued during the second half, fans of Columbus wished for the game to just be over. But Charlie Davies wanted to ice the game by scoring his second of the night, making the score 4-1. Federico Higuain would convert a penalty kick in the 90th minute, making the score 4-2, which would be the final score.
Columbus Crew will travel to New England, in need of three goals on the road, in order to advance to the next round. The game will be played on Sunday, November 9th.