Black Stars defender Harrison Afful played an influential role as Columbus Crew edged David Accam's Philadelphia Union on Wednesday night in the Major League Soccer.

The right back together with his compatriot Lalas Abubakar and Jonathan Mensah provided still in defense to prevent the threat of David Accam and C.J Sarpong.

Meanwhile, American born Ghanaian Gyasi Zardes scored the only goal as the Gold and Blacks secured all three points at the Mafre Park, in Columbus.

The first half of the game was more of a cautious display from both sides as Union tried to get a goal. However, Lalas and Mensah were solid rock at the back.

Columbus Crew SC struggled to generate quality chances for the majority of the first half. That changed in the 41st minute when Harrison Afful dribbled into the penalty box from the right side, cut back onto his weaker left foot and fired a rocket shot. The effort clanged off the far post.

In the second half the home side created more chances and dominated the game in the first ten minutes which saw Gyasi Zardes open the scoring in the 53rd minute.

A high cross from right back Harrison Afful forced Blake to come off his line in an effort to collect. He failed to do so, knocking the ball behind him.

Columbus winger Cristian Martinez was the first player to the ball, sending in a first-time cross that Blake again misplayed. Zardes was standing on the back post for an easy tap in and 1-0 Crew SC lead.