COLUMBUS – It was the same story and same result for the second straight match at Crew Stadium, as the Columbus Crew were blanked despite holding lofty statistical advantages.
Even with a season-high 22 shots and a 7-2 advantage in shots on goal, the Crew suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Colorado Rapids on Saturday.
"It really hurts," Crew midfielder Dominic Oduro told MLSsoccer.com afterward. "We controlled the game. I know it doesn't count. The only thing that counts is three points. We have to get good in the attacking half of the field."
Columbus Crew 0, Colorado Rapids 2 | MLS Match Recap
If the Crew (3-4-3) weren't misfiring from long range, they were missing golden opportunities because of off-target passing.
"The first half the final pass wasn't there," coach Robert Warzycha said. "When we created chances the final touch wasn't there.
"We're playing good enough to win games."
But they aren't. The Crew lost in their last match, a 1-0 setback to New York on May 4, despite taking 15 of 22 shots and placing six of eight shots on goal.
In each game there were just enough breakdowns for the opponents to capitalize.
Saturday, former Crew striker Edson Buddle got free in the box in the 8th minute and Dillon Powers scored in the 69th on 19-yard effort which caromed off the foot of Crew defender Josh Williams and beat goalkeeper Andy Gruenebaum.
OPTA Chalkboard: Passing, possession comes to naught for Crew
"There are so many things that we need fixed to get better," midfielder Eddie Gaven said. "I do think we have a good team. I do think we have all the pieces to the puzzle.
"We're not going to pout about it. We're not going to put our heads down. We have to keep working."
The Crew's best chance might have been in the game's opening 25 seconds, when Jairo Arrieta got free and chipped the ball over charging goalkeeper Clint Irwin. His attempt was wide left and the Crew were on their way to being shut out for the third time in four games.
