The Press Stories
Columbus Crew 2020 MLC Cup Champions as Columbus defeated Saunders FC Seattle 3-0 at Mapfree Stadium in Ohio.
The crew dominated the first half of the match, acknowledging Seattle’s use of pressure and exploitation of space for change. Argentina’s substitute Lucas Jellaroy opened the scoring for the crew in the 25th minute. Columbus will be firm for their press and will quickly switch to their second goal in the 31st minute just minutes after Derrick Etienne scored.
Seattle will make changes with two substitutes at half-time in an attempt to create some offense early in the second half. Sounders would be nice towards the goal before the hour mark, but could not find progress. Crew sealed the MLS Cup victory with a third goal from Jellaroyan in the 82nd minute.
The Columbus Crew won their second MLS trophy, with star midfielder Darlington Knockbay among the others with an infection and short arm. Three years after the fan-led initiative for #SaveTheCrew, they lift the trophy in front of their home crowd, saving the team from leaving Columbus for Austin.
Columbus Crew vs. Seattle Sounders (8:30 pm and ET)
- ⚽Team: Lucas Zellarian (25 ‘)
- ⚽Team: Derrick Etienne (31 ‘)
- ⚽Team: Lucas Zellarian (82 ‘)
The best plays
Lucas Jellaroyan’s starting goal: The crew set the tempo with their press, and Gelaroyan broke the deadlock with this one touch volley to give the Columbus side an early lead.
Derrick Etienne extends lead: The defender was active on the sidelines for the team, and his mission was completed in the 31st minute as he was able to extend the lead of the crew.
Gelaroyan seals victory: The extended Saunders backline was able to attach the goal back and forth as Gelarayan took a shot at the top of the box and left space to attach in the top left corner.
Best shows
Lucas Zellarian, Columbus: The Argentina transfer made club history tonight as the third player to score several goals in the MLS final, and helped them win the MLS Cup. Evaluation: 10
Aidan Morris, Columbus: The 19-year-old rookie had an amazing performance in the evening, making a solid change in the midfield for the crew and completely isolating Seattle’s creative maestro Nicola Loterio. He was a key factor in creating the crew’s starting goal. Rating: 8.5
Raul Ruidias, Seattle: The Peruvian striker was practically not a factor for Seattle, despite having 15 minutes left in the second half when Saunders tried to score early in the second half. Isolated, frustrated, he pushed the score. Rating: 5
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