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TFC holds Columbus to stalemate, coming home all even

COLUMBUS—In the absence of Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore, Michael Bradley stepped up.

Toronto FC was without the service of two of its three designated players when it arrived in Ohio on Tuesday night for the first leg of the Eastern Conference final against the Columbus Crew. Both strikers were serving one-game suspensions for infractions in the semifinals.

It’s true the Reds’ attack wasn’t the same without it top scorers. But their effort in a 0-0 draw exemplified the approach their captain regularly brings to his game: professional and effective, if not flashy. The Reds left with a result, if not the away goal they desired, and will return to BMO Field next Wednesday confident they can close things out in front of their boisterous fans — the scenario they’ve imagined since winning the Supporters’ Shield and securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.