Football Season Review

A historic campaign in more ways than one for Columbus Crew who endured a major corona virus outbreak in their ranks during the playoffs to secure their first MLS Cup in 12 years. Columbus had an excellent start to the season, picking up nine points from the MLS is Back tournament to add to the four they had secured before the season was pushed into an enforced break. While they lost out on penalties in the semifinals, they quickly hit their stride when the regular season resumed, backed by some excellent performances at home. Lucas Zelarayan was a key cog in Columbus' attack and was sorely missed during his injury absences while Zardes was once again amongst the goals, ending the campaign as the top scorer with 15 goals. However it was Pedro Santos' displays that were crucial for Columbus' success this season and the midfielder ended the campaign with eight goals and seven assists. Columbus almost paid the price for lack of consistency up front with Zardes enduring spells of drought in front of the goal but, thankfully for the fans, they hit a timely run of form to finish third in the Eastern Conference and, despite seeing a number of players being tested positive for corona virus during their playoffs run, they emerged triumphant at the end with a 3-0 win over Seattle Sounders in the MLS Cup. Columbus continue to have a strong starting 11 but will need to improve their depth, especially finding a more reliable backup option for Zardes, if they are to repeat their feat next season.

Player of the Season: Pedro M. Santos