(Moments after the Columbus Crew score their first goal in 4-1 win against visiting NYCFC in the first leg of 2017 MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal on Halloween)

Tonight was one of those nights for the Columbus Crew that will be told for many, many years and I am proud to say I was there with my parents, who I’ve seen countless games with since the inaugural 4-nil victory against D.C. United back in 1996. The Crew’s emphatic 4-1 win this evening against visiting NYCFC was a statement in more ways than one.

First, the second consecutive impressive win on national television in the 2017 MLS playoffs against a big market team was massive and unbelievably critical for the quest towards MLS Cup and the very survival of the Columbus Crew. Second, Crew fans came out in force tonight on a frigid Halloween and passionately chanted throughout the 94-minutes sporting their team’s black and gold, as well as many dressed in fun costumes, young and old alike. Third, scumbag Crew SC owner Anthony Precourt was surprisingly in attendance to “cheer” on the team he’s been sabotaging for four years with fans he’s been lying to for the same amount of time. Unsurprisingly, this snake in the grass was treated to a couple personalized chants heard throughout the stadium (and possibly the city) that won’t be repeated on this blog post.

Hey, Precourt did have the distinct honor of hearing his name chanted on ESPN during primetime, except that the sentiment was unmistakenly dishonorable. Just several moments of choreographed humiliation and public scolding on national TV, but I’m sure nobody noticed everybody across the country and those in MLS offices heard it loud and clear.

More reflection will follow tomorrow concerning the incredible first-leg of the MLS Eastern Conference Semifinals between the Columbus Crew and NYCFC, as well as the positive, heartwarming moments from tonight that occurred off the pitch. For now:

#SaveTheCrew and Happy Halloween.