MIAMI, MAY 11: The Ohio rivalry between Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati, which resumes on Saturday, was already becoming one of the most intense in Major League Soccer before last seasons Eastern Conference final.
But after the Crew walked into Cincys TQL Stadium and raised the trophy after an upset win over the number one seed, the heat was turned up even more.
The manner of the loss hurt too -- Cincinnati led 2-0 at half-time and they maintained that lead until the last 15 minutes, when Columbus scored twice before winning the game in extra-time.
To add to Cincinnatis pain after a dominant regular season ended in such an elimination to their neighbors, the Crew went on to beat Los Angeles FC in the final, winning their third MLS Cup title.
Wilfried Nancys side has continued to impress this season, reaching the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup after upsetting Mexican giants Monterrey.
The Crew have achieved their continental success with a style that has football purists purring, no doubt irritating further the fans in Cincinnati, who see their own club again above Columbus in the standings.
Winners of the Supporters Shield for the best regular-season record in MLS, Cincy rank second in the East, just three points above Lionel Messis Inter Miami. —AFP
