By Felix Petersson @_felixpetersson
The San Jose Earthquakes came out on the losing end of their two-game road trip with a 2-1 loss to Columbus.
In their last five meetings, the Crew (4-3-2) hadn’t lost a home game against the ‘Quakes (1-4-2) — and by the end of Saturday’s match, that streak extended to six.
The Crew got on the board first in the 28th minute. Assisted by midfielder Federico Higuain, right back Afful Harrison ended up alone inside the penalty box and made a hard shot past ‘Quakes goalkeeper Andrew Tarbell.
After Columbus’ goal, the Earthquakes stepped up their game. Winger Magnus Eriksson had two easy opportunities to score, but missed both.
However, just before halftime, striker Danny Hoesen tied the game as he headed in a cross from today’s left back Florian Jungwirth,
The second half started with the Crew’s top goalscorer, Gyasi Zardes, missing an open shot a few yards away from the goal in the 50th minute.
San Jose had a few chances to score, with the best look coming from Eriksson.
As time went on, the game was stuck at 1-1 but one more goal would fall at Mapfre Stadium.
In the 84th minute, midfielder Mike Grella made his first appearance for Columbus off the bench, and gave his new team the 2-1 lead and the three points.
The Earthquakes tried to bounce back and had a good chance to equalize during stoppage, but ultimately fell short to the Crew 2-1.
The next match for the ‘Quakes is at Avaya Stadium against the Portland Timbers next Saturday.