Red Bull New York found a dramatic late breakthrough on Saturday, with Ronald Donkor’s 89th-minute goal earning the visitors a 1-0 Major League Soccer victory over Columbus Crew at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.
For much of the match, Columbus had more of the ball and looked to turn territorial control into a decisive opening. The Crew finished with 58.7 percent possession, seven corners and 12 shots, but only three efforts tested the Red Bull New York goalkeeper as the visitors held their defensive shape.
Red Bull New York were content to work without the majority of possession, yet carried a greater threat when chances arrived. They registered 15 shots and five on target, gradually putting Columbus under pressure as the second half developed.
The first half ended goalless, with neither side able to convert its opportunities. The contest grew increasingly physical after the interval: Donkor was booked in the 69th minute, Columbus forward Santiago Rodríguez saw yellow a minute later, and Red Bull New York’s Mohammed Sofo was cautioned in the 73rd minute.
Just when the fixture appeared destined to finish level, Donkor delivered the defining moment. The Red Bull New York midfielder struck in the 89th minute to break the deadlock and give his side a precious away lead.
Columbus pushed for an equaliser through seven minutes of stoppage time, but Red Bull New York saw out the result. Crew defender Steven Moreira was booked in the 90th minute as the home side’s frustration mounted.
The defeat leaves Columbus looking to respond when CF Montréal visit on September 19. Red Bull New York will carry momentum into their next fixture, a New York derby against New York City FC on September 18.
Goal scorer
- Red Bull New York: Ronald Donkor, 89′
