New York City FC and Columbus Crew Produce Thrilling Match

In one of the more dramatic matches this season, New York City FC and the Columbus Crew played to a 3-3 draw at Mapfre Stadium.

Crazy is one word that describes the match between the Crew and New York City FC. Four goals in the final 20 minutes of the game produced a Saturday night thriller between the two Eastern Conference clubs.

Frank Lampard got the scoring underway in the 41st minute. The Englishman finished off a rebound from an Andrea Pirlo free kick that hit the woodwork. He has now scored nine goals in the past two months.

Justin Meram headed home the equalizer in the 49th minute, as he finished off a nice cross from Waylon Francis to bring the Crew back into the match.

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A penalty kick from Ethan Finlay would put the home side into the lead in the 80th minute. Frederic Brillant was responsible for the penalty call after the referee determined he fouled Finley.

The lead wouldn’t last long, however, as NYCFC found a goal just three minutes later. David Villa finished off a beautiful pass over the top from Pirlo to record his 14th of the season.

Harrison Afful would concede a hand ball penalty in the 92nd minute to provide NYCFC a golden opportunity to steal all three points. Villa did just that, as he stepped up and dispatched into the net to put the away side up 3-2.

Finlay would play the part of the hero in the 95th minute when he blasted the equalizer into the back of the net. A scramble in the box for the ball ended when the ball landed kindly for the 26-year-old.

Despite the comeback the Crew were unable to end their win drought. Their last win came on May 28th against Real Salt Lake. NYCFC maintain their spot at the top of the Eastern Conference, as they try and hold off the onrushing New York Red Bulls, who are two points behind their rivals.

All Goals 

Looking Ahead

New York City FC with next play against the LA Galaxy at home on August 20th. The Crew will be leaving Columbus next week as they take on the New England Revolution away from home on August 20th. Both teams will be looking for a win in their next match after this thrilling draw.