2017 Columbus Crew SC Report Card: Week 9

Before we issue the match grade for the Columbus Crew SC, we will analyze and grade three key individual performances we feel impacted the match in one way or another.

Ola Kamara: B+

The dynamic forward had a tremendous shot on goal early in the game that almost pulled the Crew level, but was denied by some impressive goalkeeping. Still, Kamara was able to leave the match with a goal off an assist from Finlay.

Kamara has seemed just one step off the entire season thus far, however, and has been one step behind on a lot of scoring opportunities in 2017.

Jukka Raitala: C

Some ugly, ugly defending after an uglier pass by Raitala led to an early goal from NYCFC. On the defensive end of the match, Raitala would get a failing grade, however in a bit of a redeeming moment the defender had a beautiful assist with a cross to Federico Higuain that led to the Crew’s first goal.

Federico Higuain: A

Pipa was the man of the match on the Black & Yellow side, with little argument. Higuain landed his 41st goal for Crew SC, but also looked great in the rest of the contest, with 4 shots, 2 on goal, and an uncredited assist with the second goal, splitting his legs and letting the ball roll through him so Kamara could take the better shot.

Every corner Pipa took was well executed (by him at least), and he continues to show why he’s still a massive asset for Crew SC, as well as silence all of his 2016 critics.