Crew SC put out a changed lineup for the first game after being eliminated from playoff contention. The changes didn't help as Columbus put up a stiff late resistance only to fall to New York Red Bulls 3-2.
Columbus got some luck early. Brad Stuver, getting his first regular season appearance for the team tripped up Alex Muyl to give the home side the chance at an early lead. Sasha Kljestan stepped up to to take the penalty, but Stuver dove the right way and snuffed the chance.
The Crew SC offense was missing Federico Higuain and Ola Kamara.