Most folks know Columbus, Ohio, as home to The Ohio State University. New England Revolution supporters likely associate the capital of Ohio with fond memories of recent playoff-related success. To wit, entering Decision Day 2013, the Revs marched into then-Crew Stadium needing nothing short of a full three points to erase a four-year playoff drought. Led by MLS Defender of the Year Jose Goncalves and a resurgent Juan Agudelo, Jay Heaps’ second-year squad secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory that not only earned a playoff spot but also temporarily revitalized the franchise.
The following year, New England’s ascendancy to an MLS Cup final was also launched in Columbus.