By Tyler Snipes, MLSNEXTPro.com
Columbus Crew 2 is now riding a two-game winning streak after taking care of business on the road in Chester, PA, where it defeated Philadelphia Union II by a 1-0 margin at Subaru Park.
Crew 2 striker Jacen Russel-Rowe opened his MLS NEXT Pro account in the 56th minute for the difference-maker. In the aftermath of a Union II corner, winger Alexandru Matan went above Union II goalkeeper Stuart Findlay’s reach to set Russel-Rowe up with the golden opportunity that he clinically headed home at point-blank.
Columbus Crew 2 head coach Laurent Courtois should walk away pleased with how his side performed. Sunday's contest was a close one throughout the entire 90 minutes. Both sides ended with three shots on target, but Crew 2's 82% passing accuracy rate on a whopping 620 passes saw them comfortable in possession and was the key to the victory.
The win is set to shake up the MLS NEXT Pro Power Rankings. Philadelphia Union II was one of the few unbeatens left in the league heading into the weekend. Crew 2’s two-game winning streak, both wins earned on the road, broadcast that they are ready to jump into the elite of the Eastern Conference.
