Final
Crew's Cunningham eyes record against Chivas
Apr 9, 2011 - 12:40 AM Carson, CA (Sports Network) - Columbus Crew forward Jeff Cunningham has played just 91 minutes this year, but he could make Major League Soccer history this weekend against winless Chivas USA.Cunningham is second on the all-time regular-season scoring list with 132, one shy of Jaime Moreno's record. Although Crew coach Robert Warzycha didn't start Cunningham the last two weeks, the veteran may get the nod Saturday.
Forward Andres Mendoza is out with an adductor strain, meaning Warzycha has to change a starting lineup that has produced a 0-0 tie against Red Bull New York and a 2-0 win over FC Dallas over the last two weeks.
Although Warzycha has other options, putting Cunningham into the lineup would be an easy decision. Cunningham started just 14 games last season for Dallas, but led the MLS Cup runners-up with 12 goals.
The 34-year-old Cunningham may have seen his better days, but he seems content with whatever role he plays, as long as he helps the Crew succeed.
"I'm happy the team played well tonight and got three points. It's important to steer us in a positive direction," said Cunningham, who made a very brief appearance as a substitute against Dallas last week.
Columbus must find a way to snap a trend between the teams, which has seen the road team go winless in the series since 2005. Considering the Crew lost their lone road game, 3-1 at D.C. United, it might be even tougher to end that run.
However, Chivas has struggled at home this season, losing both of its matches. Coach Robin Fraser earned his first result last week with a 1-1 tie at Toronto FC.
But the first-year manager has to be concerned with defeats to Sporting Kansas City and the defending MLS Cup champion Colorado Rapids to open the season at the HDC.
Fraser was happy to see Alejandro Moreno score last week, and believes he will play an integral role as the team continues to settle in this season.
"Everyone in the attacking end is better when Alejandro is there," Fraser said. "He helps us in terms of making decisions and helps them in terms of where they need to be and what they need to be doing. He's a natural leader, who has played in a lot of situations."
Chivas could be without central defender Jimmy Conrad again this week due to a concussion, giving Fraser some concerns in defense again this week. Midfielder Michael Lahoud was shifted to right back and Heath Pearce into central defense last week, and it could mean more changes this week if Conrad is still out.
- COLUMBUS: 0
CHIVAS USA: 0
Final
Apr 10 12:26 AM - COLUMBUS: 0
CHIVAS USA: 0
1st Half - 1'
Apr 9 10:38 PM
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