Two Eastern Conference clubs aiming to improve their standings as the regular season nears its ending will collide today, Saturday, as Toronto FC (TFC) host Columbus Crew SC for the third meeting between the clubs this season.
In their first match held last March, Columbus walked away with a 2–0 win, but in their second outing, TFC mustered a 3–3 draw.
The Reds have the momentum heading to the matchup since they are currently on a four-match winning streak in Major League Soccer (MLS).
In their past four matches, TFC defeated the Colorado Rapids (3-1), Chicago Fire (3–2), Philadelphia Union (3–1), and the Eastern Conference-leading New York Red Bulls (2–1).
In their win over the Red Bulls, one of Toronto's scoring leaders, forward Jozy Altidore, netted another goal, which was his second in two consecutive games, according to MLS.com.
The goal gave Altidore a total of 12 for the season, just behind teammate and fellow forward Sebastian Giovinco who leads the club with 22 goals.
TFC already clinched a playoff spot and the win over the Red Bulls gave the club a total of 49 points to currently rank second in the East.
Meanwhile, the Crew, who still have two games left in their schedule including Saturday's game against the Reds, are still not sure of a playoff berth despite sitting on the number five spot in the East with 47 points.
Columbus is tied with the New England Revolution as both clubs are just two points ahead of the last playoff spot currently held by Montreal Impact (45 points) and are three points ahead of seventh placer Orlando City SC (44 points).
The Crew is winless in their past two matches, losing against the Portland Timbers (2–1) and the Red Bulls (2–1).
Columbus' last victory came back in September when they defeated D.C. United 2–1.
The third match between Toronto FC and Columbus Crew SC this season will take place today, Oct. 17, at 2 p.m. EST. To watch via live stream, click here.
