Federico Higuain scored the only goal of the match to guide the Columbus Crew to a 1-0 win against the New England Revolution in their MLS match.
The home side went close early on when Will Trapp released the run of Aaron Schoenfeld down the right, and the striker fired a low shot across the face of goal which went just wide of the post.
New England hit back with a good chance and the home side were grateful to a strong save from Steve Clark as he tipped Lee Nguyen's powerful shot past the post.
At the other end, Bobby Shuttleworth kept the scores level with a fine stop of his own when Eric Gehrig powered a header at goal from Tony Tchani's cross, but the keeper parried his effort wide.
Gehrig came within inches of heading his side ahead minutes later when he latched onto Higuain's corner, but his effort struck the post and bounced clear.
In the second half, the Crew took the lead as Higuain curled a free kick from distance into the top corner past the outstretched hand of Shuttleworth.
Nguyen had the opportunity to respond from a set piece for the visitors, but he saw his effort well saved by Clark at the second attempt.
Columbus were given the chance to effectively seal the game when they were awarded a penalty after AJ Soares fouled Justin Meram in the area in the 83rd minute. However, Shuttleworth denied Higuain his second goal of the game with a solid stop.
Charlie Davies almost made Higuain pay for his error when he raced through on goal, but Clark produced a fingertip stop to turn his shot past the post, which was enough to secure the home side the three points.
