Columbus Crew SC took the top spot in the MLS Eastern Conference on Saturday with a 1-0 victory and an early season double over New England Revolution.
Crew SC defender Josh Williams scored the game’s lone goal shortly before the break, with a glancing header that squeaked in at the far post. A desperate Rev’s ‘keeper Cody Cropper could only watch while rooted in place following a crossed ball from usual provider, Federico Higuain.
New England’s evening got worse midway through the second half when Michael Mancienne was sent off with his second yellow card following rash challenge on Higuain in the center of the field.
Zack Steffen once again came up big for Crew SC. He kept his clean sheet intact with a commanding block in the game’s dying minutes, denying Rev’s substitute Cristian Penilla for equalizing.
Columbus’ next game takes place April 13, this time on the road at Montreal Impact.