The Columbus Crew eased past an overmatched New York Red Bulls 3-2 in the First Round of the MLS Cup Playoffs. Despite falling behind, the Black & Gold rode goals from Pedro Santos, Darlington Nagbe, and Gyasi Zardes and fended off a furious comeback effort to move on.
The Crew nearly opened the scoring in the first minute as they took their first possession down the left side through Milton Valenzuela and Lucas Zelarayan to feed Zardes inside the six yard box. The tight angled shot was saved by Ryan Meara, but it was a clear statement from Columbus to take the game to the Red Bulls.