Andy Gruenebaum was supposed to coast on Wednesday night against the putrid Chivas USA attack, but he didn't get to. He actually had to make a few saves and watch his Columbus Crew team flail about, but just when it seemed as if the Goats might manage a point, Justin Meram scored in the 89th minute to win it for Columbus.
Columbus Crew Vs. Chivas USA, 2012 MLS: Crew Strike Late To Win
The first half was sloppy on both sides, but especially for the Crew. They gave away the ball with regularity and had Chivas not been so kind as to give the ball back, Columbus would have been behind. And when the Goats did break through, Gruenebaum was there to make the save.
Columbus did exploit the shoddy Chivas defense a few times, but Dan Kennedy kept his fantastic season going with some fine stops. Julius James finally did beat Kennedy late in the first half, but it hit the bar and the match was still level.
The second half saw both teams tightened things up. The chances disappeared and the match looked destined for a draw, but the substitute Meram had something to say about that.
Federico Higuain started the play with a cross for Jairo Arrieta, which was headed on goal. Kennedy was able to make the save, but Arrieta was able to nod the rebound into the path of Meram despite being on the ground. Meram buried his shot and Columbus had all three points.
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