Substitute Justin Meram scored in stoppage time to earn Columbus Crew a dramatic victory over Chivas USA tonight.

In an open start to the contest, the visitors were the first side to have a meaningful effort on goal, with Andy Gruenebaum being forced into action to deny Miller Bolanos.

Columbus improved as an attacking force later in the first period and should have been ahead when Federico Higuain found Julius James in the box, but the defender's header rebounded off the post.

Higuain's creativity was a constant threat to the Chivas defence and the forward created another chance on the stroke of half-time but Dan Kennedy raced off his line to block Jairo Arrieta's shot.

Chivas were reduced to long-range efforts on goal in the second half and the home side's defence looked assured against their opponents.

As the match looked to be heading for a goalless draw, Meram found space in a crowded penalty area to fire past Kennedy to score what proved to be the winner.