Just several weeks ago, the Columbus Crew appeared all but dead, but Saturday’s lopsided win over a fellow playoff hopeful kept the team’s hopes alive for the time being.

Ola Kamara and Ethan Finlay combined to lead the way on Saturday night as the Crew cruised past Orlando City with a 4-1 win. The win puts the Crew within seven points of the sixth and final playoff spot with two games in hand.

Six minutes in, Kamara provided Finlay for the game’s opener. Sprung forward by a Dilly Duka through ball, Kamara simply slid a pass over to a wide-open Finlay in the box, leaving the winger with as simple tap-in for the first goal.

A Seb Hines own goal pushed the lead to two in 22nd minute before Kamara scored the first of his two goals on a Finlay assist just moments before halftime.

The second half remained calm until Cyle Larin scored to bring the Lions within two goals. From there, the Lions failed to find the back of the net before Kamara sealed the win with a 95th minute finish for his 13th goal of the year.

The loss leaves Orlando City in eighth, and five points ahead of the Crew, heading into a visit to D.C. United on Saturday. The Crew’s playoff push, meanwhile, continues Sunday with a clash with the New England Revolution.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Ola Kamara was at his best on Saturday night. His unselfishness teed up Finlay for the game’s opener before the forward bagged two of his own to seal the win.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

Up two goals heading towards the halftime whistle, Kamara’s 44th minute goal sent the Crew into the locker room up three while all but locking down the result.

MATCH TO FORGET

Orlando City’s defense has been putrid throughout the season, but Seb Hines‘ own goal was particularly bad for a team that is falling out of the postseason chase.