The Columbus Crew began its 18th MLS season with a resounding 3-0 road win against Chivas USA on Saturday evening, with Designated Player Federico Higuain opening the scoring with a stunning 30-yard strike in the 51st minute.
Defender Josh Williams doubled the Black & Gold’s advantage in the 88th minute, finishing an Eddie Gaven corner kick. Dominic Oduro added an insurance goal in stoppage time during a Crew counterattack, beating Chivas goalkeeper Dan Kennedy to cap a strong start to the 2013 campaign for Robert Warzycha’s side.
“It’s huge for us,” Williams stated. “We wanted to get out of the gates fast. We have been notorious for kind of coming out slow. We definitely wanted to come out and make a statement.”
With the victory, the Crew takes a full three points heading into its second consecutive road match – a March 10 showdown with Vancouver Whitecaps FC at BC Place. The Crew then opens the home portion of its season on March 16 against last year’s Supporters’ Shield winner, the San Jose Earthquakes.
