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Crew top Revs to punch postseason ticket

Oct 16, 2011 - 2:34 AM Foxborough, MA (Sports Network) - Andres Mendoza recorded a brace to help the Columbus Crew secure a spot in the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs on Saturday, as the Crew comfortably dispatched the New England Revolution 3-0 at Gillette Stadium.

Mendoza notched goals in the 31st and 63rd minutes, while Dilly Duka opened his MLS scoring account with his strike in the 59th minute.

Mendoza got Columbus off the mark with a well-taken goal. A bouncing ball was not dealt with properly by the New England defense, and Mendoza smashed a side-volley past Revolution goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth for his 12th goal of the season.

Duka recorded his first career MLS goal to double the Crew's lead in the 59th minute. A failed New England clearance fell to Duka, who collected possession and accelerated past Kevin Alston before slotting a low shot to the far post.

Mendoza completed the rout and secured his brace just four minutes later, getting on the end of a ball played across goal and hammering home a shot from close range.

Columbus moved to within touching distance of top spot in the East, trailing Sporting Kansas City and the Philadelphia Union by just a point with one game remaining.

New England has now lost five straight matches and sits in last place in MLS with just 27 points on the season.

Both teams return to action on Oct. 22 as Columbus heads to Toyota Park to face the Chicago Fire, while New England will battle with Toronto FC in a match pride at BMO Field.