MLS Columbus Crew SC

First Two Columbus Crew exhibition results from Portugal

Published on February 21, 2003 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Columbus Crew SC News Release


Just 2 days after fighting to a 1-1 draw against SC Fatima, the Crew took the field again on Thursday, February 20, this time losing 2-1 to First Division powerhouse Sporting Lisbon. The Crew opened the scoring in the 16th minute, Jeff Cunningham latching onto a Kyle Martino through ball before dribbing his defender and scoring. However, the lead proved too much to defend, as a 43rd minute free kick and 53rd minute header handed The Crew their first loss of the season.

The game was a physical encounter, one which saw all but four players feature for the Crew. The absentees were Jeff Matteo, Guy Abrahamson, Tom Presthus, and Michael Ueltschey. For Sporting, 18 of the 22 players they used were pulled from the full roster, and about half of those could be classified as first-team regulars.

The weather, which had earlier knocked out power at the stadium on two different occasions, was very cooperative today - described by the Crew coaching staff as "cool but sunny". Taking advantage of the balmy conditions, over 400 people crowded into Lisbon's training center to get a glimpse of the action.

The Crew will play 2 more games during their stay in Portugal - starting this Sunday against 2nd division side SC Lourinhanense.

Crew draws 1-1 in first Portugal match

The Crew's first game in Portugal, against 2nd-division club Fatima, finished a 1-1 draw. 2002 Rookie of the Year Kyle Martino scored for the Crew, chipping the goalkeeper from 30 yards in the 9th minute. Fatima equalized in the 35th minute, and neither team was able to break the deadlock in the second half. The challenging conditions no doubt played a role, as the entire game was played in a torrential downpour, and the stadium lights went out twice in the second half due to the storm.

Of the 25 players travelling with the Crew, all saw action except for goalkeeper Tom Presthus, defender Chad McCarty, and midfielder Brian Maisonneuve.

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Major League Soccer Stories from February 21, 2003


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