Columbus Crew SC playmaker Federico Higuain made his return to the starting lineup for the first time since June 1, but his return was spoiled by Toronto FC's 3-0 victory at BMO Field in Toronto on Saturday. With the win, Toronto laid claim to the 2016 Trillium Cup, thanks to first-half goals by Major League Soccer's reigning MVP Sebastian Giovinco and Tsubasa Endoh, and a second half strike by Jozy Altidore.
Higuain's return lasted 67 minutes with three shots launched toward Toronto's goal. He was eventually switched for Dilly Duka — who closed out the final 23 minutes. Forward Ola Kamara led all of Crew SC with four shots — two on goal.
Newly acquired forward Adam Jahn made his Black & Gold debut, featuring through the final 16 minutes of the match.
Crew SC dominated possession with nearly 55 percent, and the sides were nearly level in shots (Toronto: 12; Crew SC: 11), shots on-target (6; 4) and overall passing accuracy (85 percent; 86 percent).
Giovinco produced two moments of magic in the first half, first curling a ball from distance into the top corner of Crew SC's net. On second look, the ball deflected off the back of Endoh's head, cementing the goal as his with Giovinco nabbing the assist in the 8th minute. Giovinco finished his chance in the 24th minute off a give-and-go with Jay Chapman. The Italian powered a low and hard right-footed first-time shot into the back of the net.
Crew SC pressed forward to close the half, pressuring Toronto and Alex Bono's goal and forcing him into four saves.
Steve Clark, in goal for Crew SC, finished with three saves.
The Black & Gold now enter a bye week before returning home to MAPFRE Stadium to host New York City FC on Aug. 13, presented by Big Lots.
