Big Surprise in MLS Eastern Conference Opener

Confident Columbus Crew, Montreal’s next road-trip opponent, refused to be intimidated by Toronto FC’s burgeoning reputation, deservedly winning the MLS 2018 Opener 2-0 at bumpy, BMO Field.

The Crew was the more accomplished side against a very flat defending champion, which lacked intensity throughout, apart from 10-minute spell in the second half when they threatened to get a foothold on the game.

Goals came either side of the interval, the wonderful Federico Higuain volleying the first on 44, and Gyasi Zardes finishing off a fifteen pass combination, without a home player touching the ball after the restart. Ironic, as Toronto had left Columbus waiting out on the pitch for their arrival to…