New York Red Bulls Fall to Columbus Crew in MLS Cup Playoffs

Red Bulls' Season Ends in Heartbreaking Fashion

Crew Advance to Eastern Conference Final

HARRISON, N.J. - The New York Red Bulls' season came to an end on Sunday night, as they fell to the Columbus Crew 2-0 in the Eastern Conference semifinals of the MLS Cup playoffs.

The Red Bulls, who had won the Supporters' Shield for the third time in four years, were the top seed in the East and had a bye to the semifinals. While they had a good record at home, they failed to live up to expectations in the most important game of the season.

The Crew, who finished fourth in the East, upset the top-seeded Red Bulls in convincing fashion. With the win, Columbus clinched its spot in the Eastern final, and will next face FC Cincinnati. The second leg of the matchup will be played at Mapfre Stadium on Oct. 30.

Despite having the home field advantage, the Red Bulls never really got going in the match. The Crew controlled possession for much of the game and created the better scoring chances. In the 24th minute, Pedro Santos gave the Crew the lead with a header off a cross from Aidan Morris.

The Red Bulls had a few chances to equalize in the second half. Caden Clark saw a shot saved in the 65th minute. Cristian Cásseres Jr. then sent a shot just wide of the post in the 72nd minute.

However, the Crew put the game away in the 85th minute. After a turnover by the Red Bulls, Lucas Zelarayán played a pass to Derrick Etienne Jr., who finished with a low shot into the corner of the net.

The loss was a disappointing end to the season for the Red Bulls. They had been one of the best teams in MLS all year, but they came up short when it mattered most.

For the Crew, the win was a major upset and a huge step towards their first MLS Cup since 2008. They will now face a tough test against FC Cincinnati, but they will be confident after their victory over the Red Bulls.