Football Season Review

Columbus achieved their minimum aim of making it to the playoffs following a poor 2016 campaign but will be disappointed they were not able to make a second MLS Cup appearance in three years as bowed out in the Eastern Conference finals. Coach Gregg Berhalter had revamped his defense with a number of new faces, including signing Jonathan Mensah on a Designated Player contract, but it was at the other end where Columbus showed marked improvement with Federico Higuain returning to form as he struck a good understanding with Justin Meram and Ola Kamara, with the duo chipping in with 14 and 19 goals, which helped Columbus comfortably secure a place in the playoffs thanks to a 10-match unbeaten run in the final weeks of the regular campaign though they did lose out to eventual MLS Cup winners Toronto FC despite having seen off Atlanta United and New York City FC. Columbus' heavy investment in the defense paid off as they put up an improved defensive display compared to the previous season, though it was not until Berhalter switched back to a four-man defense that they finally looked like a unit with Mensah and Josh Williams emerging as first choice defenders while Alex Crognale and Lalas Abubakar both showed promise of the future with some solid displays. Berhalter though will need to reshuffle his options ahead of the new season, especially at left back with Waylon Francis leaving the club and Jukka Raitala selected in Expansion Draft. While Berhalter will be looking to get his side ready for the new season, the fans' focus will be elsewhere as they continue their efforts to prevent owner Anthony Precourt from moving the franchise to a new city.

Player of the Season: Federico Higuain