Picture Credits: Columbus Crew
Columbus needs all three points when they welcome D.C United to Lower.com Field Saturday night. Prior to their draw against Sporting KC last weekend, the Crew had lost four straight games in all competitions. Returning home before a two game road trip will be vital for Columbus, and a game that is a must win heading into the road trip.
How To Watch
TV: Bally Sports Great Lakes, ESPN+
Where: Lower.com Field, Columbus, Ohio
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Last Time Out
Columbus
The last time Columbus took the field, they did so without fan favorite Gyasi Zardes after his trade to Colorado, and star Lucas Zelerayan, who missed through injury. Columbus went on the road and drew with a struggling Sporting KC side, making this game a must win.
D.C United
The last time D.C United took the field, they beat the defending supporter shield winners, the New England Revolution 3-2. It was a game they led 3-1 at one point, but let New England get back into the game.
Injury Report
Columbus
OUT: Kevin Molino (Knee)
QUESTIONABLE: Milos Degenek (Thigh), Luis Diaz (Back), Lucas Zelerayan (Knee)
D.C United
OUT: Nigel Robertha (Concussion), Bill Hamid (Hamstring), Chris Odoi-Atsem (Thigh), Andy Najar (Leg), Moses Nyeman (Thigh), Adrien Perez (Foot)
QUESTIONABLE: NONE
Projected Starting XI
Keys To The Match
Score. Then Score Again.
Listen, I know its getting repetitive, but its something the Crew need to do. If they want to get back on track, they need to start putting the ball in the back of the net, plain and simple. Miguel Berry needs to gain the confidence to finish at every chance he gets. With Lucas not starting, Darlington Nagbe will once again have to make plays for the Black and Gold.
Berry Needs To Prove He Is the Guy
It has not been a secret that Columbus will and has been on the market for a striker. This past week, they have had two separate bids rejected for Estudiantes forward Gustavo Del Prete, though both were rejected. Berry needs to prove that he can be the striker of the future for Columbus, and it needs to start Saturday night.
Defense Continues To be Solid
Even though Columbus has not had a win in over a month, the defense has been pretty solid. Columbus has not made the mistakes as much as they did last year at the back, and that needs to continue. With the possibility of missing Milos Degenek, Josh Williams will have to step up, which I expect.
Prediction
I am not good at these predictions. Im gonna be blunt and honest. Columbus needs a win. Badly. They need to boost their confidence before they hot the road for two straight. Columbus wins 2-1 with Berry and a winger, any of them, scoring.
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