Jul 16, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; D.C. United midfielder Marcelo Sarvas (7) dribbles the ball while Columbus Crew SC forward Ola Kamara (17) defends in the second half at Mapfre Stadium. The match ended in a 1-1 tie. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

The struggling Columbus Crew were able to pick up an important point on Saturday night as they drew 1-1 against D.C. United.

It was almost a massive victory for The Crew, but a late goal in the second half denied the home side the three points. The first half ended scoreless with both sides unable to find the back of the net. Alvaro Sabario had the best chance of the half, with a shot from close range that was saved by Steve Clark. A turnover from the Crew defense led to the opportunity.

Ola Kamara almost opened the scoring in the first minute of the second half, but his shot hit the left post. Luciano Acosta had his opportunity to put D.C. United ahead in the 49th minute, his shot was saved nicely by Clark and the danger was averted.

In the 63rd minute the Crew would finally find the goal they had been looking for. Harrison Afful sent a cross into the box and linked up with Kamara who sent it into the back of the net. The Norwegian forward has now scored nine goals in his last 13th appearances.

Unfortunately, things went from good to bad for Afful who was sent off in the 74th minute for his tackle. After the replay it appeared that the midfielder never made contact with the D.C. United player.

D.C. United began to up the pressure as they tried to take advantage of the situation. The Crew did well to fend off the onslaught, but in the 89th minute Fabian Espindola found the back of the net. A deflected ball fell right to him just inside the 18, and he fired home a left footed strike.

For the second time this week the Crew have blown a one goal lead at home in the second half. The results aren’t there yet for a side that desperately needs points at the moment. With tonight’s draw, the Crew will remain in ninth place in the Eastern Conference.

Next week the Columbus Crew will finish up their three game home stand with another crucial match against Orlando City. If they fail to pick up three points next week they will most certainly be in trouble heading into the All-Star week.