Early Ike Opara strike enough for Sporting Kansas City

Sporting Kansas City have cut the gap on MLS Eastern Conference leaders New York Red Bulls thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 win at Columbus Crew.

Ike Opara's early goal proved to be enough for Peter Vermes's men to draw within two points of the summit.

The 24-year-old defender headed home Graham Zuzi's cross in the 17th minute, although Bernardo Anor came close to snatching a point late on for the home side.

However, the Venezuelan got himself on the end of Federico Higuain's corner and directed his effort on target, but Seth Sinovic was there to block.

The result leaves the Crew two points off a spot in the playoffs, but they have played a game more than the three teams above them.