Save the Derby

Early last week, it was reported that Columbus Crew SC might be leaving the state of Ohio for Austin, Texas, at the end of the 2018 season. This stunning announcement not only affects the Crew and their fans, but it may also affect FC Cincinnati and their bid to become a Major League Soccer expansion team. In some ways it can benefit the franchise, but the Crew’s potential exodus may also hurt FC Cincinnati.

The obvious reason that the Crew heading for Austin would hurt FC Cincinnati is that the budding instate rivalry between the two Ohio teams would be no more. The “Hell is Real Derby” had its first installment this past year during the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Fans of both franchises packed Nippert Stadium and created an atmosphere that was nothing short of electric. The action on the field was intense, fans were talking trash in the stands, players were jawing backing and forth on the field, and the first match of the “Hell is Real Derby” became an instant classic. FC Cincinnati fans celebrated the 1-0 victory, and Crew fans dreamt of vengeance on the pitch. With the Crew possibly leaving Ohio, the first chapter in the rivalry might be the only chapter. Due to that lack of an instate rivalry and the amazing atmosphere it created, MLS might pass on accepting FC Cincinnati’s expansion bid.

Just as obvious as the Crew’s possible Ohio exit could hurt FC Cincinnati’s MLS chances, it is also very obvious how it could be beneficial to the Cincinnati soccer squad. Should the Crew leave, MLS would not have a team in the state of Ohio. Many people think that this would clear the way for FC Cincinnati to join the league. Sports Illustrated and Fox Sports soccer expert Grant Wahl thinks the Crew’s exit all but assures that FC Cincinnati and Detroit attain MLS bids.

Personally, I want the Crew to stay in Ohio. The first match of the “Hell is Real Derby” was one of the best sporting events I have ever attended. The atmosphere was electric, and the sports hate between the two opposing Ohio soccer teams was pure and full of vitriol. It was an incredible way to introduce a possible flagship MLS rivalry to the soccer world. If FC Cincinnati does get into MLS, I do not want it to be because Columbus lost their team. It sucks when sports franchises leave a city and essentially desert their fan base. Even though FC Cincinnati and the Crew are rivals, I do not want Crew fans to have to lose their team. Hopefully the Crew can sort out their stadium situation and stay in Ohio allowing the “Hell is Real Derby” to continue should FC Cincinnati attain an MLS expansion slot.