Following a bye weekend, Crew SC returned to training and turned the burners on high.

“The guys have come back refreshed," Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter says. "It is hot, and it is humid, but the guys are working through it. We had a good, long session on Tuesday, and a tremendous work rate from the guys.

“It’s competitive. They’re getting after it, and that’s the first part. That’s the step you need to be a pro soccer player—the competitiveness—and we’ve been seeing it in training.”

Berhalter says a high level of play and high intensity have been present over the last couple days, despite the sweltering summer weather. Preparation for New York City FC this Saturday night is in full swing.

“They’ve been tough days, but we’re just getting ready for the New York City game,” Vice Captain Wil Trapp says. “It’s nice to have an off weekend, get our legs back under us, get the mentality right, and I think the work the past two days has been really good.”

The continuous communication and intense effort at the training grounds are noticeable, especially as the Black & Gold continue to integrate newer faces. With four roster additions in the past eight weeks, players returning from injury and a heightened drive to push for playoff contention, the competition and accountability have escalated.

“I think both days have been geared toward competition, and I think guys have responded extremely well,” Trapp says. “The accountability factor comes with that competitive attitude, I think we’re fighting as hard as we can, and I think it’s showing a little bit in the trainings we’ve had.”

Midfielder Dilly Duka has appeared in four matches for Columbus this season and striker Adam Jahn made his debut in Black & Gold last match, just a day after he joined the squad. Goalkeeper Zack Steffen also made his entrance to Crew SC’s 18-man matchday roster in Toronto and defender Nicolai Naess will be available for selection this weekend after acquiring his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa.

The increased competition within the Black & Gold has translated to an advanced work rate, intelligent physicality on the training pitch and an intensified desire to win.

“You just need to keep fighting, keep working as hard as you can, and competing without being reckless,” Trapp says.

Kickoff for Crew SC vs. NYCFC is set for 7:30 on Saturday night at MAPFRE Stadium. Tickets are available here.