Nielsen goes the distance in reserves loss to Crew
October 10, 2011 (Official Game Summary)
The Columbus Crew defeated the New York Red Bulls, 3-0, in a MLS Reserve League match, Monday at Crew Stadium, behind goals by Justin Meram, Cole Grossman and Johnny Owoeri.
In the 16th minute, the Crew got on the board with an easy finish by Meram. Jeff Cunningham initiated the play looking for Jhonny Arteaga, and the Colombian was quick to set up an open Meram who slotted the ball to the right of Alex Horwath for the 1-0 lead.
In the 42nd minute, Crew midfielder Dejan Rusmir initiated the play down the middle of the field, finding an open Cunningham. The MLS all-time leading scorer laid the ball off to Grossman who shot it past Horwath.
In the second half, New York picked up the pace to no avail. In the 65th minute, Red Bulls guest player Semsa Nikocevic took a shot from close range but Gruenebaum deflected the ball into a corner kick. Five minutes later it was Red Bulls' midfielder Brian Nielsen's turn with a great run down the left flank but, again, Gruenebaum was quick to save the shot.
Then, in the 85th minute, Columbus put the final nail in New York's coffin when Josh Gardner sent Owoeri down the middle on a counter-attack and the Nigerian was able to finish past Horwath, who did manage to get a hand on the ball.
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