Toronto FC vs. Columbus Crew SC – Game Recap
Be it Toronto having played their last match 72 hours before, compared to Columbus’s 14-day rest, TFC’s key forward Jozy Altidore suspended, Crew’s keeper Steve Clark’s fantastic saves, or perhaps the fact the hosts already clinched their playoff spot and the visitors still needing to fight for their MLS playoff position.
Whatever the reason may be, or probably a combination of several of the above, last night belonged to Columbus Crew.
The first goal of the night was scored by Columbus Crew’s Ethan Finlay (40’). Federico Higuain took a corner kick that was taken by Tony Tchani who knocked it down toward Finlay who scored his tenth MLS season goal and put the visitors in the lead.
Toronto FC 0 – 1 Columbus Crew
Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco that usually works miracles in the opposition’s box was isolated up front for most of the match, and even Michal Bradley’s phenomenal playmaking abilities didn’t manage to get Giovinco the ball.
Giovinco did get lone scoring opportunity through a free kick (62’), which as he typically does, skilfully curled above Columbus’s wall towards goal. However it was denied through an impressive dive by Crew’s keeper Steve Clark.
The visitors continued to apply pressure and create opportunities in search of an insurance goal, as well as defend and deny the hosts of any chances to equalize.
Columbus’s chance came a minute into stoppage, with Federico Higuain doubling the Crew’s lead (90’+1’) and scoring his seventh goal this Major League Soccer Season.
Toronto FC 0 – 2 Columbus Crew
And when Toronto were close to creating opportunities, Columbus’s black shirts were swarming all over the Toronto’s reds, tripping, tackling and creating challenges that also costs them dearly.
Notably, Crew’s Federico Higuain and Kei Kamara shown yellow cards (31’ and 63’ respectably). Which means they will both be missing Columbus’s final game of the MLS season against D.C. United next Sunday.
Furthermore, it also means that Kamara is out of the race for Major League Soccer’s Golden Boot title, with Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco still in the running. Both are tied at 22 goals this MLS season, although Giovinco has 15 assists vs. Kamara’s 8.
Toronto travel next to Montreal Impact, and Columbus Crew host D.C. United. These will be the last games of this Major League Soccer season, both held next Sunday, October 25th at 5 p.m. ET.
