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Salt Lake blanks defending MLS Cup champion Crew
Updated 10/31/2009 11:07 PM ET
SANDY, Utah (AP) — Robbie Findley scored in the 88th minute to give Real Salt Lake a 1-0 win over the defending MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew on Saturday in the first leg of the two-game playoff series.

Yura Movsisyan corralled the ball following a throw-in and sent a cross toward the right post. Findley rushed to the ball, slid and threaded it perfectly between Columbus goalkeeper William Hesmer and the post.

GAME REPORT: Salt Lake 1, Columbus 0

The Crew, a two-time Supporters' Shield winner, is the third straight opponent Salt Lake has held scoreless at Rio Tinto Stadium.

Real Salt Lake, which went 9-1-5 at home this season, shut out New York and Colorado to clinch a playoff spot for the second consecutive season.

The second leg will be in Columbus on Nov. 5.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Posted 10/31/2009 10:36 PM ET
Updated 10/31/2009 11:07 PM ET