Nobody expected high quality soccer out of this MLS Cup Playoffs wild card match. After all, it was the Colorado Rapids and Columbus Crew, or as they are otherwise known, the two most boring teams in MLS. The teams did exactly what was expected of them to, that is play 90 minutes of horribly dull soccer. Luckily, the only entertaining player on the field, Omar Cummings, saved us with a goal that eliminated the Crew and moved the defending champion Rapids into the conference semifinals, where they will face Sporting Kansas City.
Colorado Rapids Vs. Columbus Crew, MLS Cup Playoffs 2011: Omar Cummings Goal Eliminates Crew
For the entire first half, there was nothing worth watching. The teams just traded boots up field, giveaways and all-around terrible play. The game was boosted by any atmosphere either, as it was played in a mostly-empty stadium as thousands made the smart decision not freeze while watching two unattractive teams play in temperatures under 30 degrees.
Finally, Cummings delivered the goal the Rapids needs. Kosuke Kimura went blazing down the right side and got to the end line before dragging the ball back for Cummings in the middle. The Jamaican was clinical in his finishing, burying his shot to put the home side in front just before the halftime break.
The second half was more frustration for viewers. Brian Mullan had a golden opportunity to make it 2-0 Rapids, but he wasted it. Colorado pulled Cummings, taking off the only source of entertainment in the match and the rest of the match was a snoozefest. Eventually, the final whistle sounded and as ugly as it was, the Rapids were through to the conference semifinals thanks to Cummings' goal.
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