Columbus Crew secure MLS Cup berth despite 2nd-leg loss to New York

The Columbus Crew have punched their ticket to the 2015 MLS Cup Final.

Having defeated the New York Red Bulls 2-0 in the first leg of the series, a 1-0 second-leg loss at Red Bull Arena was just enough for the Crew to move on to the final with an aggregate 2-1 lead.

A late 93rd-minute goal by Anatole Abang gave the Red Bulls a 1-0 lead, making for a nervy final few minutes as Jesse Marsch's side looked to tie up the series. That effort nearly paid off as the Red Bulls smacked the post with their final chance of the 2015 season in the 95th minute of play.

But, it would not be enough for the Red Bulls on the night and, with the 2-1 aggregate win, Columbus will host the MLS Cup Final, taking on the Portland Timbers on December 6 at MAPFRE Stadium.

With the series win, the Crew claims their second MLS Eastern Conference Championship title and will compete for their second MLS Cup in franchise history.

In 2008, the Crew defeated the Red Bulls to win the MLS Cup and will return to take on the debutantes from the west in the Timbers, who make their first MLS Cup appearance after defeating FC Dallas 5-3 in the Western Conference Championship.