SPORTS

Photos: Columbus Crew Fans chant, prep, cheer for first day at Lower.com Field

The Columbus Dispatch
Jairo Manuel Alza hoists a piece of concrete over his head after a larger piece was broken with a jackhammer after the Columbus Crew scored a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Jairo Manuel Alza hoists a piece of concrete over his head after a larger piece was broken with a jackhammer after the Columbus Crew scored a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
The Columbus Crew mascot, S.C. marches with fans to Lower.com Field before the soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
The Columbus Crew mascot, S.C. marches with fans to Lower.com Field before the soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Raymond Finnegan holds a scarf during the march of fans to Lower.com Field before the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Raymond Finnegan holds a scarf during the march of fans to Lower.com Field before the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Roger Deborde holds a scarf during the march of fans to Lower.com Field before the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Roger Deborde holds a scarf during the march of fans to Lower.com Field before the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Sean James, center, places his hard hat over his heart during the national anthem with his kids Malaya, 5, and Deion, 7, before the soccer game between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Sean James, center, places his hard hat over his heart during the national anthem with his kids Malaya, 5, and Deion, 7, before the soccer game between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Suzi Clow pumps up the crowd on the Nordecke during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Suzi Clow pumps up the crowd on the Nordecke during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Frankie Hejduk, left, Suzi Clow and Jairo Manuel Alza pose with a jackhammer after the Columbus Crew scored a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Frankie Hejduk, left, Suzi Clow and Jairo Manuel Alza pose with a jackhammer after the Columbus Crew scored a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Daniel White twirls a scarf and yells during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3. "I traveled 1600 miles from New Mexico to be here," White said. "I wanted to be here, in the front row of the new stadium just like I was in 1999."
Daniel White twirls a scarf and yells during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3. "I traveled 1600 miles from New Mexico to be here," White said. "I wanted to be here, in the front row of the new stadium just like I was in 1999."
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Joe Hill reacts to a play during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Joe Hill reacts to a play during the Columbus Crew soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Joe Hill, left, Jeremy Erickson, Kevin Stapanian and Alex Schilling react after the Columbus Crew score a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Joe Hill, left, Jeremy Erickson, Kevin Stapanian and Alex Schilling react after the Columbus Crew score a goal during the soccer game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Derek Reed reacts after the Columbus Crew scores a goal during the game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field July 3.
Derek Reed reacts after the Columbus Crew scores a goal during the game against the New England Revolution at Lower.com Field July 3.
Nicolas Galindo/The Columbus Dispatch
Injured Columbus Crew midfielder Artur watches from a corner of the field before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Injured Columbus Crew midfielder Artur watches from a corner of the field before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
Randy Jones, a member of the unhoused community, rallies fans from under a train trestle as they marched to Lower.com Field for the match the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Jones said he hoped he could bring smiles to fans on the day of the inaugural match in the new stadium.
Randy Jones, a member of the unhoused community, rallies fans from under a train trestle as they marched to Lower.com Field for the match the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Jones said he hoped he could bring smiles to fans on the day of the inaugural match in the new stadium.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
Suzi Clow of SoHud leads songs and chants while marching with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Suzi Clow of SoHud leads songs and chants while marching with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
A man carries flares as Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
A man carries flares as Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
A black and yellow flag flies from bicycle parking just west of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
A black and yellow flag flies from bicycle parking just west of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
Fans wave black and yellow flgs before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Fans wave black and yellow flgs before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Nick Auddino, of Westerville, walks in front of a Columbus Crew logo on the west side of Lower.com Field before attending the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Auddino is a longtime Crew supporter who has only missed one game for the birth of his son. His children Jordan, 12, and Laina, 6, Auddino, were attending the match with him.
Nick Auddino, of Westerville, walks in front of a Columbus Crew logo on the west side of Lower.com Field before attending the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Auddino is a longtime Crew supporter who has only missed one game for the birth of his son. His children Jordan, 12, and Laina, 6, Auddino, were attending the match with him.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Darla Campisano starts a chant inside Whistle and Keg before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Darla Campisano starts a chant inside Whistle and Keg before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans rides his bike past Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans rides his bike past Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Cheyenne Foster poses for a portrait with her yellow-colored braids outside Whistle and Keg before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Cheyenne Foster poses for a portrait with her yellow-colored braids outside Whistle and Keg before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Katsumi Moroi helps hang black and yellow flags over Nationwide Boulevard along with other decorative efforts made by NKdsgn LLC before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Katsumi Moroi helps hang black and yellow flags over Nationwide Boulevard along with other decorative efforts made by NKdsgn LLC before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch
Nick Kinney, left, and Kyle Dineen, right, spray paint an Ohio-shaped logo on the street before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Nick Kinney, left, and Kyle Dineen, right, spray paint an Ohio-shaped logo on the street before the Columbus Crew’s inaugural match at Lower.com Field on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans walk towards Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans walk towards Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans tailgate in front of Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans tailgate in front of Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans wait to enter Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Columbus Crew fans head towards Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Columbus Crew fans head towards Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine shakes the hand of Columbus Crew owner Jimmy Haslam at Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine shakes the hand of Columbus Crew owner Jimmy Haslam at Lower.com Field before the first game in the new stadium against New England Revolution in Columbus, Ohio on July 3, 2021.
Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
A cyclist bikes down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
A cyclist bikes down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Alex Roesch, 28, of Pickerington takes a photo of Riley Pfaltzgraf, 28, of Hilliard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Alex Roesch, 28, of Pickerington takes a photo of Riley Pfaltzgraf, 28, of Hilliard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans get their first look at lower.com Field as they walk down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans get their first look at lower.com Field as they walk down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans get their first look at lower.com Field as they walk down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans get their first look at lower.com Field as they walk down Nationwide Boulevard prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans eat on the north end of the stadium prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans eat on the north end of the stadium prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Dee Haslam walks through the stadium prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Dee Haslam walks through the stadium prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Max Weston, 32, holds his son Cannon, 18 months, as they get their first look at the field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Max Weston, 32, holds his son Cannon, 18 months, as they get their first look at the field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Brian Wagner, 41, proposes to his girlfried of 17 months, Tara Shorts, 36, prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Brian Wagner, 41, proposes to his girlfried of 17 months, Tara Shorts, 36, prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match against the New England Revolution at lower.com Field in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Fans stream into lower.com Field prior to the Columbus Crew's inaugural match at the stadium against the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, July 3, 2021.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Randy Jones, a member of the unhoused community, rallies fans from under a train trestle as they marched to Lower.com Field for the match the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Jones said he hoped he could bring smiles to fans on the day of the inaugural match in the new stadium.
Randy Jones, a member of the unhoused community, rallies fans from under a train trestle as they marched to Lower.com Field for the match the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021. Jones said he hoped he could bring smiles to fans on the day of the inaugural match in the new stadium.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
The Columbus Crew's mascots S.C. and Crew Cat march with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's mascots S.C. and Crew Cat march with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Suzi Clow of SoHud leads songs and chants while marching with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Suzi Clow of SoHud leads songs and chants while marching with fans down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans march down Nationwide Boulevard before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
The Columbus Crew's fans rally in front of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Fans wave black and yellow flgs before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Fans wave black and yellow flgs before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
A black and yellow flag flies from bicycle parking just west of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
A black and yellow flag flies from bicycle parking just west of Lower.com Field before the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Injured Columbus Crew midfielder Artur watches from a corner of the field before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Injured Columbus Crew midfielder Artur watches from a corner of the field before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Players are introduced before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Players are introduced before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Startering players for the Columbus Crew huddle up before the kickoff of the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Startering players for the Columbus Crew huddle up before the kickoff of the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Fans react to an early shot on goal by the Crew during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Fans react to an early shot on goal by the Crew during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Kaelan Saad, 10, of Lewis Center, right, and Carter King, 8, center, of Westerville, play a game of soccer outside the R Bar before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Kaelan Saad, 10, of Lewis Center, right, and Carter King, 8, center, of Westerville, play a game of soccer outside the R Bar before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans walk toward Batelle Plaza for the March to the Match before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans walk toward Batelle Plaza for the March to the Match before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
The Crew Cat mascot plays drums as Marj johnson, center, watches and Diana Lopez, left, plays the trumpet before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
The Crew Cat mascot plays drums as Marj johnson, center, watches and Diana Lopez, left, plays the trumpet before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans line up for pictures with former player Zack Steffen before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans line up for pictures with former player Zack Steffen before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Former Columbus Crew player Zack Steffen, center, poses for pictures with fans before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Former Columbus Crew player Zack Steffen, center, poses for pictures with fans before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Austin Kukral, of Cleveland, waves a Columbus Crew flag before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Austin Kukral, of Cleveland, waves a Columbus Crew flag before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew invester-operator Dr. Pete Edwards, center, greets fellow investor-operator JW Johnson, left, before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew invester-operator Dr. Pete Edwards, center, greets fellow investor-operator JW Johnson, left, before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans cheer before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans cheer before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans cheer before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans cheer before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
A Nordecke leader cheers before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
A Nordecke leader cheers before the March to the Match for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew investor-operator JW Johnson marches with fans to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew investor-operator JW Johnson marches with fans to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans gather as they march down Nationwide Boulavard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew investor-operators JW Johnson, left, and Dr. Pete Edwards, right, high-five each other as they march with fans down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew investor-operators JW Johnson, left, and Dr. Pete Edwards, right, high-five each other as they march with fans down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
A person leads Columbus Crew fans down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
A person leads Columbus Crew fans down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Nordecke leaders walk with Columbus Crew fans down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Nordecke leaders walk with Columbus Crew fans down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Cheerleaders watch as Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Cheerleaders watch as Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans hold up flares as they march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans hold up flares as they march down Nationwide Boulevard as they march to the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans watch as other fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans watch as other fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans watch as other fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans watch as other fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Columbus Crew fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus Crew fans march into Lower.com Field for the inaugural match between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Fireworks explode during the national anthem before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Fireworks explode during the national anthem before the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
The opening kick of the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
The opening kick of the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
The inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
The inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Banners hang from the Nordecke during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Banners hang from the Nordecke during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Kalliope Van Euwen, 10, center left, of Canal Winchester, cheers with her mom, Stephia Brown, center right, of Warren, after the Columbus Cree score their first goal during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Kalliope Van Euwen, 10, center left, of Canal Winchester, cheers with her mom, Stephia Brown, center right, of Warren, after the Columbus Cree score their first goal during the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution on Saturday, July 3, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio.
Joshua A. Bickel/Columbus Dispatch
Tom Armbruster of the Northwest side was decked out in head to toe Crew gear for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Tom Armbruster of the Northwest side was decked out in head to toe Crew gear for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus
Tom Armbruster of the Northwest side was decked out in head to toe Crew gear for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Tom Armbruster of the Northwest side was decked out in head to toe Crew gear for the inaugural match at Lower.com Field between the Columbus Crew and the New England Revolution in Columbus on Saturday, June 1, 2021.
Barbara J. Perenic, Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus