The Columbus Crew opened up its 2012 season in similar fashion to the way in which it closed its 2011 season: with a shutout loss at the hands of the Colorado Rapids.
The Rapids scored late in each of the halves, with Drew Moor putting Colorado up 1-0 in the 44th minute and Quincy Amarikwa sealing the victory with an 89th minute tally.
The Crew was dominated for much of the match, managing only three shots on Rapids keep Matt Pickens. The Rapids placed five shots on goal against Crew goalie Andy Gruenabaum, but he was able to come up with only three saves on the evening.
The Crew won't take the pitch again for another two weeks, when it will make its home debut at Columbus Crew Stadium on March 24th against the Montreal Impact.
For more on the Crew, check out Massive Report. For more on the Rapids, check out Burgundy Wave.