Columbus 2 : Toronto 0

Toronto made a lot of noise about bringing down 2500 fans for the first game of the season in Crew Stadium. Ironically, those 2500 fans made little to no noise during and after the game they came to see, as The Black and Gold administered the textbook definition of an ass-whippin' in their 2-0 domination of the Red Snatch Boys. For this week, at least, the Crew are top of the table!

Three key moments in the game:

1. Adam Moffat's goal.

The first goal of the 2008 MLS Season was a beauty by the Scottish marksman. Getting on the board early set the tone for the type of style we hope to see from the Crew this year. And getting the midfield involved in the scoring is always a plus. Moffat will be the surprise of 2008 for many Crew fans.

2. Will Hesmer's PK stop.

The play of the game, without a doubt. Hesmer was put in an awful position by an iffy call, but he made the stop. That might be the most spectacular play from a keeper I've ever seen live. That shutdown absolutely killed any momentum Toronto had going into halftime.

3. Eddie Gaven's pass.

Everyone will remember Moreno's goal, but I will remember the pass that put Moreno in position to finish. Definitely not the best game we've seen from Eddie Gaven, but he played much better in the 2nd half than the first. If he could stop clogging up the middle when we're on the attack, he would be one of our best weapons. And it's about time we play a ball to space and let our fast forward run onto it.

Offensively, the Crew attack was relentless, and it was very encouraging to see the boys bury two shots low and in the corners. Schelotto looks a step slower, if that's even possible, but as always, he was dangerous with the ball and on set pieces. Robbie Rogers was all over the field, and Moreno again brought his lunchpail.

In the midfield, Adam Moffat and Brian Carroll did a great job of holding and distributing, which is encouraging, since they are the newest faces in the middle. Hopefully, Gaven can show more of the passing he exhibited on the Moreno goal.

Defensively, it was a solid first effort for the new unit, minus a couple of hiccups in the opening minutes. Chad Marshall was a rock, Danny O'Rourke was violent as always, and Frankie did a tremendous job in getting forward and hustling back. Unfortunately, Miglioranzi is not the answer at left back, so the addition of Gino Padilla will be welcome.

As far as the fans go, Hudson Street, La Turbina, and Union 103 brought the house down. One game down, and the new corner is louder than any of us expected. Hopefully, the great atmosphere will continue when we take on the Goats April 12th.

Overall, it was a tremendous day to be a Crew fan, and it's a very encouraging start to the 2008 season. Let's hope we can get points against the Energy Drinks next week..

I hope to post pictures from the game tomorrow.