After scoring a total of three goals in their first five matches, Crew SC mirrored that tally in just one match, a 3-2 victory over New York City FC Saturday. Goals from Ethan Finlay, Kei Kamara and Justin Meram, who also assisted the first two, made the difference for the Black & Gold. ‘Keeper Steve Clark also contributed three saves to the stat sheet, including a crucial diving stop in the 93rd minute to seal the victory.
After their first win of 2016, Crew SC made up some ground in the MLS Power Rankings. Let’s take a look at where the Black & Gold stand.
The biggest jump for the Black & Gold comes in ESPN FC’s rankings. Last season’s Eastern Conference champions moved up six spots to 14th. “Everyone in Columbus can finally breathe again with the first win of the season in the books,” ESPN FC says.
SI.com emphasizes the “attacking trident” of Finlay, Kamara and Meram, stating the the Black & Gold “looked just like their 2015 selves” against New York City FC. Sports Illustrated moved Crew SC up five spots from last week to 15th.
MLSsoccer.com also ranks Crew SC 15th, up four spots from last week, calling out Black & Gold midfielder Justin Meram for his Man of the Match performance vs. New York City FC.
