New England Revolution 0, Columbus Crew SC 1 | 2018 MLS Match Recap

Alicia Rodriguez

After 84 minutes of scoreless soccer, it took a header by defender Lalas Abubakar to separate the New England Revolution and Columbus Crew SC, with the visiting Crew SC winning by a 1-0 scoreline at Gillette Stadium on Saturday.

Defense reigned on the night, with the chances largely even but clear-cut scoring opportunities hard to find as the rain poured on the stadium throughout the match.

The deciding moment came in the 85th minute, as Columbus took a corner, and Abubakar scored off Federico Higuain's service. Moments later, it appeared the Revolution had a chance at a penalty, but it wasn't meant to be, as referee Sorin Stoica waved off New England appeals for a call.

Goals

85' – CLB – Lalas Abubakar | WATCH

Three Things

THE BIG PICTURE: In a game that had a distinct playoff feel to it, Columbus just edged their opponent on a single moment. These teams played to a draw in Columbus about a month ago -- if they meet again in MLS this year, it would be in the playoffs, and this game will likely be a good preview for that potential matchup.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH
: The goal was the decider in the game, and Abubakar scored his first of the season to pick up three points for the visiting side.

No better time for your first goal of the season, @LALASABUBAKAR1! @ColumbusCrewSC take a late lead on the road. #NEvCLB https://t.co/uYTY22717A
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 20, 2018

MAN OF THE MATCH: Believe it or not, but Lalas Abubakar had the second-most shots on the night of any player, with three, and put his head in the right spot for the game-winning goal. Oh, and he helped Columbus notch a road shutout, too.