Columbus Crew Vs Toronto FC: 3 things to look for – Exploiting shorthanded defense

2. Columbus Crew’s diminished defensive line

With five defenders missing through injury, Columbus Crew manager Caleb Porter was forced to start error-prone youngster Alex Crognale as well as the inexperienced Connor Maloney against FC Cincinnati.

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Crognale’s poor decision-making led to FC Cincinnati’s opening goal, insofar as the 24-year-old defender failed to mark Darren Mattocks and misjudged the flight of the ball during the visitor’s corner kick in the 16th minute.

Crognale also failed to position himself correctly on Cincinnati’s second goal, whiffing on his awkward clearance attempt, which allowed the ball to run across goal to the wide-open Emmanuel Ledesma at the far post. Given that Maloney was seemingly unaware of the winger’s presence in the penalty area until the last second, the Argentine was able to double his side’s lead with an easy finish.

Unfortunately for Crew supporters, Porter might have to start Crognale and Maloney against Toronto FC as well. Center-backs Josh Williams (hamstring injury) and Aboubacar Keita (thigh injury) are listed as questionable, while left-backs Waylon Francis and Hector Jimenez will miss Saturday’s match.

With injuries likely rendering the Columbus Crew short-handed at the back once again, expect Toronto FC to play on the front foot in hopes of exposing the home side’s shaky back-line.