COLUMBUS, OH – It's a battle of desperation when Vancouver Whitecaps FC visit Crew SC in the Buckeye State this afternoon.
With each team's back against the wall in the playoff race, don't be surprised if the gloves come off when they kick off at 3 p.m. PT.
Follow the match live on TSN2 and TSN1040.
Here are the numbers that you need to know:
5-10-14 It was on May 10, 2014 when Erik Hurtado scored his first MLS goal, incidentally coming in their last visit to Columbus. Getting another one would be massive for Hurtado, who 'vows to move forward' from last week's disappointing loss. Also of note, the goal was set up by David Ousted for his first, and only, career MLS assist.
70 Whitecaps FC defender Jordan Harvey made his return to the lineup last Saturday after missing the previous five MLS matches due to a left knee sprain and tallied a match-high 70 touches, 14 more that anyone else on the team. Considered by many as the team MVP prior to suffering an injury, the club leader in starts, appearances, and minutes played also recorded four interceptions, two tackles, and two clearances.
386 The 'Caps and Crew SC are tied for second in MLS in crosses, just one below New England for the league lead. Whichever team can connect on the deliveries could dictate the outcome of this today's match.
1.88 The danger man up front for Columbus is striker Ola Kamara, who averages 1.88 shots on target per 90 minutes (min. 20 shots), fourth in MLS. Only superstars David Villa, Sebastian Giovinco, and Didier Drogba strike at a more rapid rate.
31 Crew SC have conceded a league-high 31 goals in the second half. The 'Caps have fallen behind in four of their last five MLS matches, but Columbus have shown the tendency to leave the door open late.
4 Columbus have won only four matches at Mapfre Stadium, tied for last in the league. Whitecaps FC have not scored a road MLS goal in 546 consecutive minutes, dating back to June 25. Could this be the day they break through?
Tune in to TSN2 to find out.
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