Charlotte FC lost to the Columbus Crew 3-1 on Wednesday, October 14, at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, tying the season series at one match apiece.
“We simply weren't good enough tonight,” Ashley Westwood said. “It's probably the first time we've really been outworked by another team. That's the most disappointing thing. If you're not at it in this league, then you get punished, and we've certainly done that tonight, so they fully deserved the win."
Charlotte FC struck first with Idan Toklomati scoring his 12th goal of the season in the 17th minute, tying Pep Biel for the Club lead and tying Karol Świderski for the most goals in an MLS season.
Toklomati stole the ball from a Columbus defender and dribbled in before faking left and taking a shot with his right foot that went past Patrick Schulte, who stood motionless.
“I thought Idan (Toklomati) was the other outfield player (aside from Kristijan Kahlina) who I thought competed well and did well,” Smith said.
The Crew responded in the 28th minute after regaining the ball in the final third. Brais Méndez took a shot from just outside the box that was just out of the reach of Kahlina.
Columbus continued the pressure to finish the half, recording 22 shots with nine that were on target. Kahlina showcased why he is one of the top goalkeepers in MLS, making eight saves on 3.3 expected goals for the Crew. His eight first half saves were tied for the third-most he has made in an entire match with Charlotte FC.
Thanks to Toklomati’s goal and Kahlina’s wizardry in the net, The Crown went into halftime tied at one with the Columbus Crew.
Columbus’ first half pressure carried over to the second half. They converted twice in two minutes, taking a 3-1 lead.
In the 63rd minute, a Columbus cross into the box bounced into the box to Anass Zaroury, who volleyed a shot just above the outstretched hands of Kahlina. In the 65th minute, they doubled their lead after Taha Habroune took advantage of a Westwood turnover and gave Columbus a two-goal lead.
“I didn't see the man,” Westwood said. “Yeah, no, it's unlike me. Listen, these things happen, frustrating night."
Charlotte FC tried to push back but all three shot attempts the rest of the match missed the net. Kahlina also finished with a career-best 11 saves for The Crown.
Charlotte FC continues its road trip, heading to Philadelphia on Saturday, October 17, for a meeting with the red-hot Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. ET.
“We're back into action again on Saturday away from home, against the team that's flying so we've got to get ready for that,” Smith said. “So my job now is to make sure we're ready for that."
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For The Crown. Don't miss Charlotte FC in action at Bank of America Stadium for Season Five!
