Rapids roll ahead of the Crew to take the first leg
Colorado defeated Columbus 1-0 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The win gave the home side a narrow advantage in the two-leg Western Conference semi-final.
Pablo Mastroeni scored the only goal in the 23rd minute, after making a darting run from midfield to stroke the ball into the net.
The Rapids dominated the first half and appeared to have caught the Crew defense off guard. The second half saw the roles reverse with Colorado on the back heel and Columbus bringing the ball forward.
Both sides missed chances to score, and the Crew came very close to scoring late in the second half. Matt Pickens was superb and deserved to keep his clean sheet, after making several fine saves.
The Crew take home field advantage in the second leg of the tie at Crew Stadium in one week, and both sides will know the hard work is still to come.
Pablo Mastroeni scored the only goal in the 23rd minute, after making a darting run from midfield to stroke the ball into the net.
The Rapids dominated the first half and appeared to have caught the Crew defense off guard. The second half saw the roles reverse with Colorado on the back heel and Columbus bringing the ball forward.
Both sides missed chances to score, and the Crew came very close to scoring late in the second half. Matt Pickens was superb and deserved to keep his clean sheet, after making several fine saves.
The Crew take home field advantage in the second leg of the tie at Crew Stadium in one week, and both sides will know the hard work is still to come.
