Conditions in Columbus were perfect for soccer this afternoon with temperatures in the 70’s and a cool breeze blowing. Unfortunately for New York, they were playing as if it was in the 100’s, getting beaten to the second ball and coming late into challenges.
Columbus dominated the chances in the first half though they were unable to test Luis Robles with a single shot on goal. Jairo Arrieta came closest for Columbus with a shot from the edge of the area that fizzled just past the upright.
The best chance of the half fell to Tim Cahill and he should have put New York ahead. A cross from the right found him free 16 yards out, but he blasted the shot high over the bar and into the South stand.
The second half continued in the same vein for New York with Juninho struggling to find time and space on the ball. The Columbus duo of Danny O’Rourke and Tony Tchani were dominant, staving the Red Bull’s midfield for both time and space.
With Columbus continuing to create the better chances New York gave them a gift of a penalty in the 71st minute with Brandon Barklage mistiming a challenge on Eddie Gaven as he ran into the box. Federico Higuaín stepped up to take the resulting spot kick, but Robles produced a fine save diving to his right to push the ball away.
The save finally awoke New York, who started to press forward with more intent. Cahill had the ball in the net on 79 minutes, but was adjudged to have felled the Crew keeper. Cahill was not to be denied; a minute later he headed in from a saved shot after a fierce drive from Jonathan Steele.
Columbus struggled to lift themselves after the goal, but had one final chance at the death with Arrieta shooting from 6 yards, but it lacked power and was easily saved. This was a great win for the Red Bulls in a game where they were second best for long periods, but it’s a sign of a good team that can win when playing poorly.
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