Goals from Emilio Renteria and Justin Meram have secured a 2-0 victory for Columbus Crew over Seattle Sounders.
Seattle appeared to be in good form in the opening stages with both Fredy Montero and Osvaldo Alonso coming close with long-range efforts.
However, it was Columbus who took the lead against the run of play when Dilly Duka found space on the wing before delivering a teasing cross which was met by the head of Meram to put the visitors ahead.
Despite Columbus seizing the advantage, Seattle responded well and could have levelled the match before the break but Jeff Parke failed to test Andy Gruenebaum with his header from close range.
Seattle continued to be wasteful when chances were presented to them and Alvaro Fernandez was the next culprit for the hosts as he put his header wide on the stroke of half time.
The Sounders continued to dominate the match in the second half but their best chance of getting back on level terms was wasted by Montero when the striker couldn't beat Gruenebaum after being put through on goal by David Estrada.
Although Seattle continued to probe the Columbus defence, it was the visitors who scored the second goal of the match when Renteria picked up the ball outside the area before firing a powerful strike into the top corner of the net.
The hosts were shocked by the goal and failed to force a dramtic comeback in the closing stages.
Callum Mulvihill
