Following the Crew's pivotal Eastern Conference clash with D.C. United on Saturday night, the Black & Gold reserves will look to secure their second-consecutive MLS Reserve League East Division title on Sunday morning against United's reserves. It is sure to be a massive weekend for all 28 active players on the Crew roster.
"It's a big deal," rookie Ethan Finlay said. "In all honesty, I think our whole team is very focused. Guys that aren't even maybe close to the gameday 18 or haven't been all season, are very focused this week. We're excited. We want to win the League and be back-to-back champions. The older guys have made sure we know it's important."
Last year, the Crew's Reserve League success was anchored by Josh Williams in central defense and Andy Gruenebaum in goal. Both have been key contributors in the Black & Gold's push for the 2012 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Head Coach Robert Warzycha says his team's Reserve League accomplishments demonstrate how deep of a team he has at his disposal.
"We can see in the First Team how many guys have actually started a game for us this season, it's a lot. It means we can count on everybody," Warzycha explained. "Everybody is bringing something different to the table. When they're called upon, they perform."
The Crew reserves kick off against D.C. United at 10:00 a.m. ET at D.C. United's training grounds at RFK Stadium.
