The late equalizer Columbus Crew SC surrendered to D.C. United on Saturday was more than a gut-punch. It was also a reminder of just how much improvement is needed during this second half of the season.
Crew SC were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw with D.C. United at home at MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday night, conceding a late goal with 10 men on the field -- after Harrison Afful was controversially sent off in the 74th minute. Columbus captain Michael Parkhurst refused to offer that up as an excuse for not seeing out the decision.
"I thought it was a soft red card, but we have to do better to hang on," Parkhurst said, on the postgame broadcast. "It's a shame. That was a chance that we could have denied and it's frustrating. We keep losing points, especially at home, and it's got to stop or it's going to be a long season."
The draw left Columbus, last year's MLS Cup runners-up, a subpar 3-1-6 in games at MAPFRE Stadium this season. The club remains in ninth place in the Eastern Conference (3-7-9 overall) and face an uphill battle to the playoffs.
"The season is on the line coming up here soon," Parkhurst said. "We have to stop pulling punches. If we don't get three points in the upcoming games, we're going to be in a real tough spot down the stretch. The pressure is on, there's no doubt."
