MLS Eastern Conference leaders Columbus Crew enjoyed a spectacular performance on the pitch last night, defeating bitter local rivals FC Cincinnati 3-0. This was Columbus’s third clean sheet in a row, not to mention yet another great result following their 1-0 victory over the second-placed Philadelphia Union.
After a goalless first half, Pedro Santos grabbed the lead for Columbus after connecting with a well-timed long ball from Luis Diaz Espinoza. Columbus then doubled their lead in the 64th minute, thanks to a well-struck Gyasi Zardes volley. Five minutes later, Zardes doubled his tally by capitalizing on a rebound from close range.
In addition to the joy of winning in such an emphatic fashion, Columbus also receives a well-deserved boost on the Eastern Conference leader board. With a tally of 23 points, Columbus now leads former leaders Toronto FC by five points.
Toronto FC lost 3-2 to the Vancouver Whitecaps; a result that sees the Canadian club slip down to third place. Philadelphia Union now occupies second place courtesy of a superior goal difference. The Pennsylvania-based side defeated the New York Red Bulls 3-0 in their clash yesterday.
Columbus next faces Chicago Fire on Sunday evening.
