Toronto FC and the Columbus Crew played out a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg of the Eastern Conference final at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus.
The first half was a tight affair, with both teams feeling each other out and neither interested in throwing many men forward.
Playing without suspended stars Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco, Toronto understandably struggled to get much going in the attacking third, instead focusing largely on containing the Crew.
The home side started to step on the gas more in the second half, but didn't really test Alex Bono on the TFC goal until late in the match.
Harrison Afful had a point-blank opportunity after a poor Drew Moor clearance but Bono was up to the challenge, making a sharp reflex save to preserve the scoreless draw.
The two teams will reconvene in Toronto on Nov. 29 for the second leg.
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