Columbus Crew SC vs. FC Dallas – Game Recap

Be it Kei Kamara’s absence, a string of bad luck, Federico Higuain missing a penalty kick (did we say “bad luck” already?) poor defense or a mixture of all; whatever the causes were, last night was nothing less of a disaster for Columbus Crew SC.

Starting with the lineup, as said hosts Columbus were missing their MLS star scorer Kei Kamara, who is away on international duty.  Visitors Dallas made MLS history, to be the first team to even open with 5 home-grown players.  With the average age average of the starting 11 being 23-years old.

Dallas’s gamble paid off handsomely.  Although more experienced Columbus dominated possession with over 67% throughout the night, Dallas’s young players were all over the pitch, ready at any chance to defend and deny the Crew from opportunities, and also not failing to punish the hosts for many mistakes committed throughout the game.

At the first 20 minutes, the game seemed to be dominated by Columbus Crew in terms of possession, and not many could have guessed what would have happened next.

The hosts’ troubles started with Crew’s Jack Mclnerney bring tripped in Dallas’s box by Matt Hedges.  Experienced Federico Higuain missed the penalty that was awarded but kicking a wide left (24’).

Minutes later, when Dallas’s Kellyn Acosta’s corner kick found David Texeria for a header, to be bounced up high to unmarked Atiba Harris, who headed into goal to provide FC Dallas with their first point (27’).

Columbus Crew 0 – 1 FC Dallas

Another golden opportunity was missed by Columbus Crew when Jack Mclnerney skilfully positioned himself behind Dallas’s keeper Jesse Gonzalez and defender Zach Lloyd, but kicked too high and missed in front of an open goal (61’).

The visitors’ second goal of the night was a prime example of the abilities of Dallas’s young and nimble squad.  With Atiba Harris sending a long ball to Michael Barrios, who launched a powerful and fast run from the half towards the Crew’s goal.

Barrios passed from the right through Columbus defenders Michael Parkhurst and Tyson Wahl, and scored Dallas’s second goal (69’).

Columbus Crew 0 – 2 FC Dallas

Barrios was at it again less than two minutes later, while again sending a powerful shot on target.  This time, to be saved by Crew’s keeper Steve Clark.  However the save was deflected towards David Texeira, who scored and sealed Dallas’s win for the night (71’).

Columbus Crew 0 – 3 FC Dallas

Both teams return to play on Saturday, Columbus Crew will travel next to Philadelphia Union, while FC Dallas will host NYCFC.