Inside look: Crew home opener

Inside look: Crew home opener

One year after winning the MLS Cup for the first time, the Columbus Crew—the hardest-working team in the country—kicked off the home portion of the 2009 season Saturday against Toronto FC at Crew Stadium. An own goal by Crew defender Gino Padula in the 84th minute offset reigning MLS MVP Guillermo Barros Schelotto's penalty kick in the 30th minute as the teams played to a 1-1 tie. It's the Crew's second tie in two games this season, as they opened the year with a 1-1 draw at Houston.

Metromix was on the field for the game to catch all the action on the pitch and in the stands. Click through our photo gallery to get a close look at both the players and the fans, and be sure to check back at Metromix.com all summer as we continue to bring you images from the season.

Columbus' next game is April 2 in Salt Lake City, and the Crew's next home game is April 11 against Colorado. Head to the Crew's Web site to get tickets for all the remaining home games this season.