Toronto FC suffers 1st loss of 2017 vs. bitter foe Columbus

Toronto FC recorded its first loss of the 2017 season Saturday night, dropping a 2-1 result against bitter rival Columbus Crew at MAPFRE Stadium.

First-half goals from Ola Kamara and Justin Meram - crafted in part by Federico Higuain from midfield - turned around an early 1-0 lead brought about by Jozy Altidore's explosive headed effort off a corner kick just 22 minutes into the match.

Kamara leveled the score in the 37th minute of play, tapping home on an open net as Toronto's makeshift back line - sans Drew Moor, who did not travel due to an irregular heartbeat - broke down in front of him. Higuain picked out an onrushing Niko Hansen, who then played a driven pass along the ground for Kamara to finish.

Meram added another at the stroke of half-time, tapping home fortuitously off a corner kick.

Try as Greg Vanney's side did, the Reds could not find an answer to a one-two punch throughout the second half, despite Sebastian Giovinco's efforts. The Crew, meanwhile, maintained their spot at the top of the Eastern Conference, one point above Orlando City in the standings.