SB Nation - Frank Klopas

Ohio native Chris Rolfe bags brace as Chicago Fire down Columbus Crew

James Coston — Sun, 23 Sep 2012 04:09:05 -0000

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill. - Chris Rolfe apparently doesn't like the MLS team in his home state.

The Chicago Fire striker and Kettering, Ohio native scored two goals just minutes apart as they came from behind to defeat the Columbus Crew 2-1 in front of a near sell-out crowd of 19,172 at Toyota Park. The win was the club's fourth straight; their longest streak of the season.

Is there a reason that Rolfe does so well against the Crew?

"They didn't draft me," said Rolfe jokingly after the match. "They had a couple of rounds to draft me, so that's the way it is."

Rolfe, whom the Fire initially drafted in the third round of the MLS SuperDraft, left the club after the 2009 season to join Danish club Aalborg BK. He rejoined the Fire this past April, and after the two goals on Saturday night, he now has eight on the season.

The Men in Red have now won seven of their last eight MLS matches and have 53 points on the season. Of those last seven wins, four of those have involved a comeback. That's something Rolfe said the team is aware of.

"I think that’s something we’ve kind of done a lot this year," said Rolfe about giving up the early goals. "We seem to start out decent in the game and then give up a goal and then we respond to that. That’s something we’re going to have to fix, but it’s still a good thing that we’re able to come back from that."

And indeed, after some lively play from both sides to open the match, it was the away team who struck first off a Sean Johnson howler.

Off a back pass from left back Gonzalo Segares, the Fire ‘keeper Johnson looked to pass it back to the Costa Rican international. Crew forward Jairo Arrieta, however, was able to jump in front on the pass and then round Johnson to put the ball into the net past a desperately sliding Arne Friedrich and give the visitors the advantage in the 15th minute.

The Fire wouldn't be down for long though.

Moments later, midfielder Logan Pause was able to get the ball to striker Sherjill MacDonald down the left flank. MacDonald then found Rolfe with a beautiful through ball that left him one-on-one with Crew ‘keeper Andy Gruenebaum. The 29-year-old made no mistakes as his shot found the bottom left corner of the net to put the match on level terms in the 23rd minute.

And Rolfe wasn't done yet.

Three minutes later, winger Patrick Nyarko got the ball near midfielder was able to take it all the way to the edge of the box before picking out Rolfe. He then earned himself a 26th minute brace with a wonderful chip past Gruenebaum and into the top right corner of the net to give the Fire the lead.

The Crew had some opportunities late, but Johnson was solid after the early miscue, and finished the night with five saves in the victory.

"You upset yourself when you give up a pass out of the back and it turns into a goal," said Johnson after the game. "But I think that going forward, you just do your best to keep your team in the game and that's what I was called upon to do at that point in time."

One of Johnson's teammates said they were supportive of their goalkeeper even after the early mistake.

"For me, it's very important how you react as a team," said Fire defender Arne Friedrich. "Mistakes always happen in the game and great players usually show a very good reaction as he did today, and he made a couple saves today, and this makes clear in a very good way that he's confident and this is what we need."

Fire Head Coach Frank Klopas said he was happy with the team's performance in that they were able to defeat a team that's not only a rival, but is also playing strong down the stretch.

"It's a team that's just like us where they're fighting to make the playoffs," said Klopas in his post-match press conference. "Matches like this are, where the rivalry has been there, so the exciting part is that we were at home and there was a lot on the line with every game and I think the players thrive on that."

Notes

The Fire have now won four straight against conference rivals and currently sit alone in second place in the Eastern Conference with 53 points. Following a loss to DC United in late August, the Men in Red reeled off wins against the Houston Dynamo, Toronto FC and the Montreal Impact before tonight's three point performance.

La Maquina Roja named an unchanged Starting XI from their 3-1 win over the Impact last Saturday.

Vice-Captain Pavel Pardo was again unavailable for the match. The defensive midfielder missed last week's match with hamstring tightness and it appears he is not yet fully recovered. After the match, Klopas said the club is proceeding with caution as far as a return date is concerned.

Midfielder Daniel Paladini was named to the bench after missing the last two matches with a right calf injury. He made an appearance in the 78^th minute, coming on for MacDonald as the Fire looked to hold on to the lead.

The Fire received an attacking boost when it was confirmed that new striker Guillermo Franco received his visa and would be eligible for Saturday night's match. He was named to the substitute's bench, but did not see action. Franco signed with the club on September 14.

The Fire were without right back Dan Gargan as he was suspended due to yellow card accumulation. He will be available when the Fire are next in action on Friday.

The Crew came in looking to continue their quest for a playoff berth. They needed some last-minute heroics on Wednesday to knock off Chivas USA 1-0. They now play host to the Philadelphia Union next Saturday.

The Fire are next in action when they travel to LIVESTRONG Sporting Park to take on Sporting Kansas City on Friday evening. With a win, the Fire would move into first place in the Eastern Conference. That match will be nationally televised on the NBC Sports Network.

Lineups

Chicago Fire

Starting XI: Johnson (Y: '89); Anibaba, Friedrich, Berry, Segares; Fernandez, Pause (C) (A: '23), Alex (Sub: '89 for Thompson), Nyarko (A: '26); Rolfe (G: '23, '26) (Sub: '84 for Oduro), MacDonald (A: '23) (Sub: '78 for Paladini)

Substitutes: Nolly, Videira, Thompson (Sub: '89 for Alex), Bone, Paladini (Sub: '78 for MacDonald), Oduro (Sub: '84 for Rolfe), Franco

Columbus Crew

Starting XI: Gruenebaum; Miranda (Sub: '81 for Vargas), Marshall, James, Williams; Renteria (Y: '35) (Sub: '60 for Tchani), O'Rourke (Y: '28), Mirosevic, Gaven (Sub: '69 for Meram); Higuaín, Arrieta (G: '15)

Substitutes: Lampson, Vukovic, Birchall, Gehrig, Tchani (Sub: '69 for Renteria), Meram (Sub: '69 for Gaven), Vargas (Sub: '81 for Miranda)

Attendance: 19,172

Referee: Michael Kennedy

Chicago Fire vs. Columbus Crew - MLS #29 - Fireside Chat with Massive Report

Ryan Sealock — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 20:09:09 -0000

Ok folks, the day of hate is nearly upon us. Playoff spots are on the line, it's Fire vs. Crew, and it will be a completely sold out, rocking Toyota Park Saturday Night. If there's a better formula for an epic MLS game I haven't seen it. The Men in Red will look to notch 3 more points over their rivals, while moving within 1 point of 1st place Sporting KC, who beat New York Wednesday. The Crew will be coming into a place where no Eastern Conference team has won in nearly 2 years. The Fire have the home field advantage, and with our newly formed attack force, I think the Fire will wlak away with all 3 points tomorrow night.

I took some time to exchange questions with Matt Jericho over at Massive Report. Although the exchange will be shorter than normal, it's still filled with some delicious content. So kick back, relax, enjoy, and ready yourself for complete and utter Fire domination tomorrow. First question is below, the rest is after the break...

Hot Time In Old Town Asks Massive Report

1. After two straight devastating conference losses, has the Higuain bounce started to fade a bit? (via James Coston)

The loss to New England was a poor showing by the whole team, but I'll chalk Higuain's performance in that match partially to his inexperience dealing with the horrid bounces you get off the concrete in New England. He didn't play more than 5 minutes in the NY match, so I'd give him an incomplete for that one. He had some moments in Wednesday's match against Chivas, (including being involved in the play leading up to the goal), but I'm hoping for and expecting more out of him tomorrow.

2. How excited are Crew supporters about this match as compared to previous years? (via James Coston)

The consensus between the Crew fans at Wrigley Field right now is they are very excited. There's a lot on the line for Columbus after DC's win last night and to stay in contention for the playoffs it's a must-win.

3. Will Andy Gruenebaum play after his Injury in NYC? (via Ruben Tisch)

Yes, he played the full match and got a clean sheet against Chivas Wednesday so he will be good to go Saturday.

4. What will be the key matchup or matchups in your mind Saturday night against the Fire? (via Ryan Sealock)

I think Rolfe v Marshall will be key. He's a solid player and can be dangerous. Chad is a quality player, but has been shaky in the last few matches. My hope is Chad has his "A" game and can shut him down.

5. What Fire player does Columbus fear the most and who will they gameplan around? (via Ryan Sealock)

Oduro is dangerous. He's a speedy guy and we are going to need to make sure the defence is standing strong and holding their line against him.

Bonus: Score prediction and who gets the goals:

2-1 Columbus, we are overdue for a win at TP. I think goals from Arrieta and Higuain for Columbus and Rolfe for Chicago.

Massive Report Asks Hot Time In Old Town

1. What elements do you attribute to Chicago's recent surge in the standings?

A lot of factors contribute, but the big ones that stick out are good, consistent defense and goal scoring. Sean Johnson has solidified into a top keeper at the young age of 23. Our backline, featuring German International Arne Friedrich, has been playing steady and well. Austin Berry is the favorite for rookie of the year, Gonzalo Segares is good like always, and Jalil Anibaba has had his ups and downs but is starting to find his footing at a position (RB) that is not his natural position. Right now, there isn't room for him at CB, but I suppose that any team would like to have the problem of too many good CB's and not enough spots to play everyone in.

Goal scoring has been a key the past month. I don't have to tell anyone that last year and the early part of this year featured the Fire as a "one trick" pony. Shut down Dom Oduro, and you have a good chance to win. Game planning for only 1 guy is not too complicated. The Fire have spent the last couple of months strengthening the roster. Arrivals of Chris Rolfe (his 2nd stint with the team), Sherjill MacDonald, Alvaro Fernandez, and Alex have injected new life into the Fire attack. We now have a handful of players that can put the ball in the net, and they have been doing so lately. It's great to have a wide cast of players that can contribute offensively so other teams can't just key on one or two players. Frank Klopas has assembled this sort of team now and it is starting to fluorish.

2. Kansas City and Chicago are both surging right now. Do you think they have what it takes to overtake KC before the end of the season?

Definitely. In my article the other night ahead of the NY/SKC matchup, I stated that if the Fire had to play either team, I think we match up better and would do better against KC. Not to say SKC isn't good, but Chicago has long held SKC's number. We are 2-0 vs. KC this year, notching wins at home and at Livestrong. We will go for the sweep on September 28th. I would say beating the #1 team in the East 2 (and hopefully 3) times in the regular season is pretty impressive. The Fire seem to find that extra gear when they play KC and that's not something I see changing soon.

3) What do you believe Columbus needs to do in this match to get a win? What does Chicago need to do?

For us, score goals. If we can get a consistent 2-3 goals every game, we will be hard to stop because our defense is certainly capable of keeping opposing teams to less than that. We have only given up more than 2 goals in a single game 1 time this season (an off game vs. DC). That includes games against some high scoring offenses like New York, San Jose, and Seattle). In other questions exchanges this season, when asked the same thing, lack of scoring was usually my answer. Not enough output from Oduro. That has been fixed and multiple players are contributing goals. Sherjill MacDonald has been great for us so far, and Flaco seems to be finding his footing now. Rolfe has also been stellar.

For Columbus to win, I think you will need Higuain to get back to the form he was in previously. I think a win is going to take 2-3 goals. The Fire do occasionally have defensive lapses but this is more the exception than the rule. The Crew will need to create goals and find a way to beat the Fire defense.

Bonus: Score prediction and who gets the goals:

I am going with a tough fought Fire win 1-0. Sherjill with the goal.

Paint By Numbers: Gargan v. Anibaba Debate from an OPTA Perspective

Mark O'Rourke — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 16:26:06 -0000

Dan Gargan's benching in favor of Jalil Anibaba at the right back position has been a point of contention for many Fire fans. Gargan is a fan favorite due to his gritty style of play and his strong work rate. Most Fire fans argue that Anibaba is not a good fit at right back because his natural playing position is center back. Fire fans also see Anibaba as indecisive, out of his element and not very good with the ball at his feet.

If Anibaba is a step down from Gargan like people think, then why does Frank Klopas continue to plug him into the starting lineup? To get a more impartial point of view, I decided to collect data from the OPTA Chalkboards to see if I could come up with an explanation as to why Klopas has been sticking with this change in the lineup.

To my knowledge, Gargan has not struggled with any major injuries this season, so when it comes down to it, there are only two reasons at this juncture as to why Frank Klopas is playing Anibaba over Gargan: 1) Frank thinks Anibaba is the better choice at right back than Gargan or 2) Gargan has done something to lose his starting job at right back.

Statistical Comparison

I have gone through each game this season, totaled up Gargan and Anibaba's time only while they were playing right back and recorded certain statistics that seemed pertinent to the position. All of the rates on the tables below are per 90 minutes. In total, Gargan has played a little over 15 games at right back and Anibaba has put in a little over 11. In the tables below, I created a column for the differential between Anibaba and Garan and colored it to show which person has the higher rate for that statistic.

For starters, let's go with offense:

Offensively, Gargan has the edge over Anibaba. He doesn't loose possession as often, has a higher pass completion percentage and completes more crosses. One of the biggest knocks against Anibaba is his crossing ability, however, he does attempt crosses nearly a third more often than Gargan. My guess is that having Sherjill MacDonald on the team has impacted this as the Chicago Fire have not started both Gargan and MacDonald in a lineup. Matter of fact, Gargan and MacDonald have only been on the pitch together for a total of 62 minutes this season.

Offense and defense are not equals for full backs. The offensive game is important, but it is secondary to defense. Here is a look at Gargan and Anibaba's defensive statistics:

*T Win = Tackles Won; T Loss = Tackles Lost

Here is where Anibaba looks to have a leg up on Gargan. While Gargan wins more tackles than Anibaba, loses fewer tackles, and blocks more crosses, he is behind Anibaba in most every other category. The biggest categories are fouls conceded and yellow cards.

A Timeline

When looking at fouls conceded and yellow cards, I think it's interesting to look at how Gargan has done over the course of the season. Below is Gargan's fouls conceded and yellow cards in chronological order for each match he has played right back in this season.

Gargan didn't start off the season too bad. He only conceded 10 fouls in his first 7 matches at right back. He then conceded 15 fouls and received 3 yellow cards over the next 8 matches before he was first replaced by Anibaba in the match against the LA Galaxy. Fouls will happen when you're a defender, but frequently fouling is more than just accidental contact. If a player commits multiple fouls consecutively over the span of a few matches (read: 8 fouls and 2 yellow cards in 3 matches), then the player is getting beat. Fouls also give opponents set piece piece opportunities, which makes a foul-prone player a liability.

The yellow card against the Columbus Crew on June 23rd put Gargan two yellow cards away from suspension. The following match in Kansas City, Gargan played left back and Anibaba took over at right back as Gonzalo Segares was suspended. Gargan conceded 3 fouls in pretty dangerous areas against Sporting KC, but it's a little forgivable since he was playing left back. Anibaba, meanwhile, didn't do anything amazing against Sporting KC, and for the next match against Houston, Gargan found himself back in his usual position. Against Houston, Gargan conceded 3 more fouls:

As shown above, there are four fouls marked. The highest one is an off-side call. The three other lower fouls are all in dangerous spots. Two of these fouls happened pretty late into the match. The foul closest to the penalty box happened in the 86th minute. This, compounded by the fact that Gargan was still on suspension watch, may have been what caused Frank to start Anibaba over Gargan in the following match against the LA Galaxy. In this match, Anibaba had a fairly good showing on the offensive side of things, but was not anything special defensively.

During the next match against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Arne Friedrich received a red card mid-way through the second half. Gargan was subbed on to take over at right back as Anibaba switched over to center back. Within a minute of being on the pitch, Gargan had to foul again. After that moment though, Gargan tightened things up and did not commit a foul for the remaining minutes of the match. A few days later, the Fire traveled to New York where Gargan got his last start at right back to date. During this match, Gargan did not foul a soul. He also did not manage to record much of anything on defense except 2 interceptions and 4 clearances. Offensively, however, Gargan put together one of his best games completing 84% of his passes, completing 2 crosses (out of 2) and only losing possession 7 times. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to have been a good enough performance to earn him a spot back in the starting XI.

Will Gargan Ever Return to the Starting XI?

Dan Gargan lost the starting job. I think the job is now Anibaba's to lose. Defensively, Anibaba is consistent game in and game out while making very few mistakes. On the offensive front Anibaba is very up and down, but he has done well over the last three matches. It's reasonable to think that Anibaba will improve offensively as he gains experience and confidence. Unless Anibaba really messes up or gets injured (or if Arne gets injured), I don't see Gargan making his way back in to the lineup.

Overall

Before I first started working on this, I felt that Anibaba and Gargan were pretty interchangeable at right back. Gargan does some things well, Anibaba does some other things well. In my eyes, they were equals who just have different strengths and different style. After going through all of these OPTA chalkboards, I'm more convinced that Anibaba is the right option at right back and that Fire fans might over value Gargan a little too much.

Additionally, there is also the Steven Kinney factor to consider. I missed much of the 2010 season, so I've never seen Kinney play myself, but I hear a lot of people saying good things about him. If Kinney returns to his 2010 form for next year, and Arne decides to settle down in Chicago, then starting spots on Chicago's back line just got a little more competitive. What does Chicago do in this case? Do they keep Gargan around for depth, or do they consider possibly trading him to improve the team elsewhere? There are a couple of teams in the MLS who Gargan could currently start for.

A Side Note

Tweed put up a story about the future of Hot Time In Old Town here at SB Nation this morning:

The staff here finds it difficult to feature multiple stories at the same time. We'll often defer on covering a smaller story because the chronological publishing order puts the most recent story up top. All of these issues and more have been addressed in a complete redesign known as 'SB Nation United'

I almost posted this story ten minutes after Tweed posted his. I'm so excited that this sort of issue is going to be a thing of the past like trying to send smoke signals on a windy day or carrier pigeons getting gobbled up by hawks. If you missed Tweed's post, please check it out. I'm incredibly excited about this. The future's so bright, we're all going to need shades.

Well, That was Fun! The Fire Beat Impact 3-1

Ruben Tisch — Sun, 16 Sep 2012 14:00:24 -0000

There's just something about this team. Going into the locker room at halftime, I figured there was no chance of a win, and was ready to settle for a point. To say the Fire looked a step slower and less urgent than Impact de' Montreal would be an understatement. But then in the second half, they scored twice, and just like that, the narrative changed. These are games, we can now see in retrospect, that championship quality teams win. 72 hours after playing a hard fought match, tired and hard traveled, they scratched, clawed, and yes, played some beautiful soccer. At halftime, one could believe and hope, and point to the several come from behind wins the Fire have this season, but no one could have predicted the 3-1 scoreline at the end of the night.

It became apparent very early on that Montreal came to do the Fire wrong tonight. Within the first 15 minutes, they made sure everyone would be going home with a gallon of milk courtesy of Sean Johnson. The Fire also burned themselves with giveaways and Davy Arnaud was a nuisance.

The Fire back line was weak for the most part and a lot of it was from the center of the field. The A-Team was out of it, and we found out why in the 41^st Minute as "The Gargan" was released for Arne Friedrich, who left with tightness in his neck. "He wasn't comfortable," said Frank Klopas after the match. "We took him off pretty early on because he was having pain in his ability to turn, and he couldn't go."

This retroactively explains the goal that Montreal scored in the 21^st minute of play.Nelson Rivas launched a ball headed on to Hanssoun Camara on the right side. He flicked it on to Marco Di Vaio, who quickly cut on Arne Freidrich, who would have normally cut sharper, but his neck pain wouldn't let him. The former Bologna man slotted it home against goalkeeper Sean Johnson. 1-0 Impact.

The Fire didn't spark to life until the 30^th minute. And the Men in Red didn't score until 4 minutes later. Logan Pause received the ball from Jalil Anibaba, who up until that point had been god awful at right back.

It's been said over and over this year, but Jalil Anibaba is not a right back. And it was proven again when Friedrich came out. Jalil had a good game at center back after the substitution. And until this point his crosses were sub par at best. However, he found some magic after the captain returned the ball to him. He placed the best ball of the night right onto Sherjill MacDonald's head. And the number 7 placed it in the back of Troy Perkins' net.

Seconds later, Chris Rolfe was feeling it, forcing the Impact keeper to make a diving save. And then on the other side, Jalil Anibaba makes Sanna Nyassi miss.

The second half started similarly to how the first went. A lot of Montreal, not a lot of the Fire. Then the Fire started rolling once again. Patrick Nyarko flashed a ball across goal, but no one was on the back post. Chris Rolfe looked to play in Mackie for his second of the night in the 56^th minute, but it was not to be.

The go ahead goal came in the 60^th minute after an extended period of back and forth in the midfield. And it came off a defensive blunder from Nesta. After putting pressure on a free kick, Alex pounced on a lazy pass, and after a one two with El Flaco, put it across his body into the upper 90 with a gorgeous piece of skill. It was definitely a goal of the week candidate.

From then on, it was all Fire. Jessie Marsch attempted to attack strongly, bringing in former Fire player Justin Mapp, but it was to no avail. "We tried to make some changes to insert some attacking energy, and while we are doing that, we give up the third [goal]," Marsch would lament post game. "It's frustrating because this was an important match for us. In the second half we feel like we gave it away."

The third goal he's referencing was a direct result of the 3 man back line Jessie Marsch was forced to play. As Chris Rolfe was sprinting down the sideline with the ball, Dominic Oduro (subed on for Sherjill MacDonald) ran to the near post, letting Alvaro Fernandez slip into space in the middle of the box to find a perfect pass from Rolfe. Flaco proceeded to slide it in just inside the right post, as cool as you like. Game Over.

The Fire wern't done threating however. In the 90+1 minute, Dominic Oduro was played through on goal, but was called offside (replays showed it was the correct call).

In the end, the Fire won a game they looked like they had no business winning at halftime, but they rallied for 2 goals in the second half and put it to bed. Just like champions are supposed to do.

Game Notes

-The three goals tonight came from three mid-season acquisitions. Credit to the Fire FO for bringing in players who were ready to contribute right away and were match fit in order to do so.

-You may have noticed that recently required midfielder Wells Thompson was wearing the number 15 instead of the 2 he was given by the club. He said he changed jersey numbers "Out of respect."

-Arne Freidrich was subed off as a precautionary measure for neck tightness. He will be evaluated tomorrow, however Frank Klopas thinks he'll be back for Saturday against Columbus. "We will evaluate tomorrow, but the good thing now is that we've got the whole week to get ready. I think he'll be ready. He's having some pain and some difficulty turning, but I think it's something we can take care of over the next week."

- The Fire now sit a point behind Sporting Kansas City for first place in the Eastern Conference, and 6 points behind the San Jose Earthquakes for the Supporters Shield.

Chicago Fire vs Montreal Impact: Highlights, Stats and Quotes

Benzinho — Sun, 16 Sep 2012 13:53:06 -0000

It was not a fun win night for the Montreal Impact and its fans at Toyota Park. Marco Di Vaio has now scored 5 goals in Major League Soccer and had a few chances to get more. It was a tale of two halves in the game as the momentum literally shifted from one to team to another.

The Impact defense, usually it's strong point for a few weeks now, made basic mental mistakes that cost dearly at the professional level. The midfield had ball possession but not enough solutions in the last 20 meters against a united and organised Chicago team.

Game Highlights

More after the jump

Statistics

Scoring Summary:

20' : Marco Di Vaio

34' : Sherjill MacDonald

61' : Alex

80' : Alvaro Hernandez

Montreal Impact: GK - Troy Perkins; D - Hassoun Camara, Alessandro Nesta (Jeb Brovsky 81'), Nelson Rivas (Justin Mapp 65'), Matteo Ferrari; M - Collen Warner (Andrew Wenger 73'), Patrice Bernier, Sanna Nyassi, Davy Arnaud, Felipe ; F - Marco Di Vaio

Subs not used: GK - Evan Bush; D - Dennis Iapichino; M - Sinisa Ubiparipovic, Lamar Neagle

Chicago Fire: GK - Sean Johnson; D - Jalil Anibaba, Arne Friedrich (Dan Gargan 41'), Austin Berry, Gonzalo Segares; M - Patrick Nyarko, Logan Pause, Alex, Alvaro Fernandez (Wells Thompson 83'); F - Chris Rolfe, Sherjill MacDonald (Dominic Oduro 77')

Subs not used: GK - Paolo Tornaghi; D - Hunter Jumper, M - Corben Bone, Michael Videira

Post-Game Quotes

Montreal Impact Head Coach Jesse Marsch

On what happened to the team after the Fire scored the first goal:

"We wouldn't sustain it. They got themselves going after we scored, and we couldn't sustain ourselves. We went through a period in the first half and then we were on our heels, and we looked a little tired, and it winds up resulting [in a goal.] From the bench, we're just hoping we can hang on a little bit and survive the period. We don't, we give up a goal, but still the first half was a pretty even game. Second half we actually have a good start to the half, and we're doing fine. We're on top of them a lot, and we basically give away a goal. Then the game changes. We tried to make some changes to insert some attacking energy, and while we are doing that, we give up the third [goal.] It's frustrating because this was an important match for us. In the second half we feel like we gave it away."

On the frustration of the defensive mistakes leading to goals:

"Yes. All year long we've been trying to figure out how to eliminate the mistakes. And it's not easy, because they come from different areas, and they come in different ways. That part has let us down. That part has been, more often than not, has been the reason why we have lost games."

On the disappointment of Nesta's mental lapse that led to a goal:

"There's nothing much to say about that. In the first half, it was a good game. First half was a good game. It had good pace to it. That's what games are like when you come down the stretch. These are important games. In the beginning of the second half, it was good for us. We don't manage the lead. I do think there were some potential penalties in there that we don't get. But when you go on the road; and this has been the case for us all season. You feel like there has been little things that haven't gone our way. Felt like there could have been some penalties."

On whether he still believes the team can make the playoffs:

"Yes, listen, we're not out of it, we're still alive. Each time we drop a game it makes it that much more difficult. But mathematically, we are certainly still alive. We are going to continue to push this thing all the way. All the way."

On whether he feels the team has to win 4 games to qualify:

"Yes, probably. We've done it once this year, so we are going to have to do it again. It's a big challenge for us."

Montreal Impact Captain and Midfielder Davy Arnaud

On when the team lost control of the match:

"I think when they got the second goal. I thought up to that point we were pretty good. We were pushing the ball, and we created quite a few chances. We didn't give them a ton of clear cut chances. I think the second goal for them hurt us."

On not managing to keep a lead:

"It's disappointing because I felt like we did a good job getting leads and scoring goals on the road. It's not easy. We had another lead tonight. After we gave up the first one, okay, we come into the locker room even at halftime. I thought we started the second half fine and then they get the second goal. From that point, it becomes really tough for us after that."

On whether the second goal knocked the wind out of the team:

"I think it did a little bit. But having said that, we still kept pressing, we had some decent chances and then the third goal comes and obviously it's pretty much over at that point."
On the importance of tonight's game:

"We knew how important this game was for us tonight. I think that's the hardest thing to swallow. It was an extremely important game. And the end of the day, there's still twelve points on the board for us. If we can go out and get twelve points, which we've done, we've rolled out five games in a row this year already. I don't see any reason why this team isn't capable of going on and winning the last four games. It's all we can do and hope that it's going to be enough."

Montreal Impact Goalkeeper Troy Perkins

On needing every point from here on out:

"We needed those three points. It's not a good situation to be in. We still have to go in and fight. We have to take it one game at a time, and see who can do us some favors. "

On how the game changed out of the Impact's favor so quickly:

"I don't think we regrouped very well. Bad giveaway in the middle and we should have probably played back out the other side instead of playing it back in the middle at that point. It cost us. We have to say at that point, there's still close to 25 minutes left in the game, we have to say, fine, we're going to come back and get another one and be happy with that. We have to pick ourselves up better."

On the team's outlook with four games left:

"We will look to get three points at home and then we can reevaluate where everything is. And that's it."

Chicago Fire Head Coach Frank Klopas

On the 3-1 victory over the Impact:

"It was a very important game and a good win for the team, epecially having the mid week game. I told the guys that it's good that we're playing and that we're in a rhythm, because we played a really good team. It was a good game for both sides. They (Impact) needed this, so this was a big win. Obviously in the first half they scored. They started off the game well, with that long ball, but our team responded well. We believed in ourselves, and we kept playing. We never really panicked. We scored some very good goals, and it was a very good win against a very good team. Now we have an opportunity to regroup, train, and get ready for another tough opponent next week at home.

On DiVaio:

"Di Vaio, for me, it's his movement off the ball. He is a very clever player. From a tactical standpoint, we brought Logan a little bit deeper because we didn't want Felipe finding those pockets between our backline. When Felipe gets the ball, he combines really well with DiVaio. They play a long ball, and Kamara heads the ball. I think that our shape in the back could be better and DiVaio scored. He is a great forward and scored a fantastic goal. That happens in a game, but it's only one play, and the game is not over. It's not the last mistake were going to make so the important thing to do is to learn from everything, and that's what the guys did.

Alvaro Fernandez, Chicago Fire Midfielder

On scoring two goals in two games:

"It was just circumstances of the match, sometimes you have chances to contribute and sometimes you don't. I was fortunate this time to be able to finish."

On communication with his teammates:

"I think as games go on communication has definitely improved. My teammates have gotten to know how I like to do things and I have gotten to know how they like to do things, so definitely as time goes on communication is something we've improved upon."

Alex, Chicago Fire Midfielder

On playing against Felipe:

"I played for one year in Switzerland with him and he came over here. He came to MLS first and I followed him, but we're pretty good friends so I was happy to be able to take the field against him."

Chicago Fire Sign Guillermo Franco

Tweed Thornton — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 14:59:56 -0000

The Chicago Fire Soccer Club announced Friday that the club has signed Guillermo Franco on a free transfer. The two-time World Cup veteran and Mexican international will join the side immediately. He's unlikely to play this weekend but Franco fans should mark their calendar for Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 10:00 a.m. CT. as the Fire take on FC Dallas in MLS Reserve League action at Toyota Park.

"We're happy to add a talented player like Guillermo to our team," said Fire Head Coach Frank Klopas. "He has a wealth of international playing experience and will be a great asset as we look to strengthen our squad for a potential MLS Cup Playoff run."

More thoughts and official language after the break.

Franco joins the Fire from Liga MX side Pachuca where he made 12 appearances in 2012. The Corrientes, Argentina product began his career with Argentine Primera División side San Lorenzo in 1995. Yes, you could say he has been around for awhile. The 35 year-old is far off from his days as a semi-regular on Mexico's National Team. The cons to this deal are that Franco failed to score in his 12 appearances for Pachuca last season.

The positives are that the veteran striker isn't being brought in to be a starter. Chicago still has 2 open international slots. The Fire won't be paying Franco all that much money. There's still room on the roster after this signing. Frank Klopas is only playing three forwards right now: Chris Rolfe, Sherjill MacDonald, and Dominic Oduro. Franco adds some depth and comes with veteran experience. This signing will make some headlines in Mexico and around the world. This is a nice low-risk, medium reward scenario.

Franco became a naturalized Mexican citizen in 2004 and made his national team debut in 2005. Franco scored eight times in 25 appearances for El Tri, and represented Mexico in both the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups. Franco becomes the fourth player on the Fire roster with FIFA World Cup experience. Since Franco was sitting around and willing to play for not much money, why not?

Name: Guillermo Franco

Position: Forward

Height: 5'11"

Weight: 168 lbs.

Date of Birth: November 3, 1976

Place of Birth: Corrientes, Argentina

Hometown: Corrientes, Argentina

Citizenship: Mexico

How Acquired: Signed on a free transfer on Sept. 14

Official: Chicago Fire Loan Orr Barouch To Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv F.C.‏

Ryan Sealock — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 18:53:40 -0000

The Fire have just announced that Orr Barouch has officially been loaned out to Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv F.C. Orr will be heading back to play in his home country of Israel. He hasn't been able to get significant, regular playing time with the Fire, and this loan should allow him to hone his skills. I still think Orr has some great upside, and hopefully he gets his shot with the Fire in the near future. We wish Orr the best of luck on his loan with Tel Aviv and hope to see him back at Toyota Park soon!

Chicago Fire Loan Orr Barouch to Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv F.C.

Forward Joins Israeli Premier League Side For Remainder of 2012 Season

CHICAGO, Ill. (Sept. 13, 2012) - The Chicago Fire Soccer Club announced Thursday that the club has loaned forward Orr Barouch to Israeli side Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv F.C. The 20-year-old Israeli-born striker will join the Tel Aviv side immediately. Per club and MLS policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"This loan provides Orr with an opportunity to earn consistent playing time," said Fire Head Coach Frank Klopas. "Orr was interested in playing in Israel and Bnei Yehuda was a good fit. We look forward to monitoring Orr's progress and development while he is playing in Israel."

Barouch joined the Men in Red on loan from Mexican Primera side Tigres UANL on March 10, 2011. Barouch appeared in 28 league matches, tallying two goals and two assists during the 2011 MLS campaign. Barouch also led the team in scoring with three goals during the side's run to the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup final and added five goals during MLS Reserve League play.

The Fire purchased the rights to Barouch on Dec. 5, 2011. In the 2012 MLS Regular Season, he has appeared in nine games for the Men in Red, starting the Fire's June 2 match against the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass. Barouch started and tallied a goal and an assist in 84 minutes in the Fire's Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup third-round match on May 29.

Born in Haifa, Israel, Barouch made his international debut for the Israeli U-21 Men's National Team in 2011 and has represented Israel at the U-21 level five times, scoring twice.

Name: Orr Barouch

Position: Forward

Height: 6'2"

Weight: 190 lbs.

Date of Birth: November 29, 1991

Place of Birth: Haifa, Israel

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

Citizenship: Israel, holds a U.S. green card

Departed: Loaned to Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv F.C. on Sept. 13, 2012

ABOUT CHICAGO FIRE SOCCER CLUB

Founded on the 126^th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire on October 8, 1997, the Chicago Fire Soccer Club enters its 15^th Major League Soccer season. The Fire won the MLS Cup in its inaugural campaign in 1998 and was crowned champion of U.S. Soccer's national tournament, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, in 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006. In June 2006, the Fire moved into its world-class home of TOYOTA PARK, located in Bridgeview, IL. For more information on the Chicago Fire, please visit the club's official website at www.Chicago-Fire.com.

How you doin'? Chicago Fire

Duncan Fletcher — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 13:12:46 -0000

Ahead of Wednesday's game against the Chicago Fire (cos that's what's on everyone's minds right now right?) I once again got in touch with Ryan Sealock of Hot Time In Old Town, SB Nation's excellent Fire related blog where you can of course go to get the Chicago viewpoint of the game, as well as later on, my answers to his questions about TFC. After the jump, we get into Sherjill MacDonald, Alvaro Fernandez and I ask him to give a depleted team some hope and talk about the Fire's weaknesses, but first up, let's get all Aretha Dangerfield and talk about respect. So, Chicago, how you doin'?

Waking the Red: Winners of 4 out of 5, and very much challenging for 2nd in the East, still no-one really talks about the Fire as a team to watch. Why the lack of respect?

Hot Time In Old Town: I think it is a mixture of things. Not getting much attention in the National Media compared to some other teams hurts. I actually had a chance to discuss this very thing with my fellow SB Nation Power Rankings voters, and this sentiment was somewhat echoed by some of them. The other major thing I think is the fact that, compared to teams like New York and LA, the Fire don't have a ton of superstar names on the roster. It sounded like many voters tend to weight a team with big name, jersey selling stars a bit more favorably than a team with a lot of hard workers but lack of big name recognition. To me, I could care less about big names as long as the team is winning. And the Fire have been doing a nice job of that lately. How many times have we seen a team spend tons of money and buy some big name stars, yet fail to put it all together and end up being a disappointment? I would argue that what is more common is a team of blue collar players coming together to form a cohesion that takes the team to the next level. How many years has New York had a star studded roster, only to fail? And look at the LA Galaxy. For all of their purchases (Beckham being the most famous), it still took them a few years to win with their pricey payroll.

In the end, the best managers don't just buy players to buy them, they bring in the right players that, added together, create a very good group. Those players then achieve more together than some of the big ego's on the same team in other places. I think Frank Klopas has been able to do this so far. Chicago Fire owner Andrew Hauptman has also gone on record saying that the money is there for a Robbie Keane like signing, IF the fit is right. This has become a running joke among Fire fan circles as the money is there, but we don't seem to spend it. The owner has made it clear that we won't splash money just to splash money. Klopas has shown that, although most of our players may not be household names, they are creating a group that is becoming very dangerous and climbing up the Eastern Conference Standings. Even if various media outlets continue to ignore the Fire, consistently winning and making some noise this postseason will speak louder than a power ranking number will.

WTR: When last we spoke, you were excited about the potential of recent additions Alvaro Fernandez and Sherjill MacDonald. How are they looking?

HTIOT: Sherjill has done very well so far I think. He has had enough time on the pitch to start to really get acclimated to the league and his teammates. He has 6 appearances so far, with a goal and 2 assists to his name. So, not a bad start at all. He has come very close to scoring multiple times, and I personally still think he is on the cusp of a big game that could really get him going.

As for Flaco, he has had flashes of brilliance, and has missed a couple of goals that he really should have scored. Overall, he has done ok, and seems to still be trying to find his footing with a new team and new system that plays differently than Seattle. The experience he bring is definitely valuable, and I think down the stretch he will start to find his normal form again.

WTR: You've beaten us twice already this year, we're wrecked by injuries and international callups, give me a shred of hope here, what are the Fire's weaknesses? How can TFC beat them?

HTIOT: I just saw the injury report for the match, and it looks like TFC has nearly been relegated to a reserve team with the injuries and callups as you mentioned. Right now the Fire have been playing well. Our midfield and defense has been strong. We are still looking to find that consistent goal scorer week in and week out, but we are getting contributions from a few players so the scores are being spread around. Although I am not sure i would call it a weakness, I would say goal scoring still. If the defense is strong like it normally is, then we should play with anyone. However, if we get in a shootout where we might need to score 3 or 4 goals to win, it makes things much tougher. I would say TFC is going to have to find a way to get multiple goals to have a shot, and with the depleted lineup I just don't see it barring some shocking defending or GK play. Sean and our backline has been so solid for most of this year that it would take a nightmare game for them to let in a few goals i think considering your normal scorers won't be available.

WTR: Scoreline and scorers prediction.

HTIOT: Considering the lineups, I will go 3-0 to the Fire. Goals from Rolfe, Sherjill, and Flaco. I just don't see anyone that will be available for TFC that has the danger of netting a time or two against us.

Thanks Ryan. Best of luck for the rest of the season.

Fire Come Back To Tie Mexican League Champions Santos Laguna

Ruben Tisch — Sun, 09 Sep 2012 15:14:23 -0000

International Friendlies in the middle of the season: not one sane person likes them. They take time away from those important league matches or that important rest time. The most you can ask for in games like these are for no one to get hurt, and for some entertaining soccer. Last night, we had both those things. And we got something extra, too. When the Chicago Fire played reigning Mexican League Champions Santos Laguna to a 2-2 draw on Saturday Night at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, the Fire Faithful got a glimpse at their future.

Victor Pineda, the first ever home grown player produced out of the Chicago Fire Youth Academy, got his first start for the senior team, and the U-20 US International was hot, dribbling past Santos players like they were stuck in concrete. The first time happened inside the fifth minute, where he combined with Sherjill MacDonald. It was looking like a good opportunity, but unfortunately he was tripped up, which would become a theme tonight.

As it seems to happen more often then not, the Fire's opposition struck first. Benjamin Joya received the ball from a teammate on the left wing approximately 25 feat away, then proceed to dance around Hunter Jumper, who didn't do himself any favors tonight in the 90 minutes he played, and Michael Videira, who we'll get to in a minute, like they didn't even exist. He ended his run with a left footed shot that went right past a diving Paolo Tornaghi. The shot was well placed and there was really nothing anyone could have done short of giving up a penalty to stop it. It was a wonderful goal.

And just 4 minutes later, Michael Videira turns the ball over and boom Santos goes up 2-0. Daniel Luduena pounced on a bad touch and slotted it out of the reach of a diving Tornaghi.

The Fire's best chance of the half came in the 7^th minute, when Shirjill MacDonald wound his way into the box and shot the ball into the post on the near side. The strange thing however, was that the Santos players didn't try to obstruct the ball's path. They stopped moving as Mackie reared back to fire. It was as if they thought that there was no shooting lane and thought the ball was going to roll calmly out for a goal kick.

After a lackluster first half for the most part, the Fire came out like gangbusters to start the second. Two minutes in, right sided midfielder Dominic Oduro was clipped from behind right out side the area, and on the ensuing free kick, Daniel Paladini's quest for a third goal in as many games was denied by a fingertip save from substitute goalkeeper Miguel Becerra. He couldn't stop Michael Videira's header of the corner,taken by Alex, however.

The Fire's second goal was a beautiful bit of play between Corben Bone and Dominic Oduro. Dom stole Santos' lunch, then gave it to Bone running to his right, and he put it away, cross court. As Rudy Gomez said on twitter, "Andres Inesta with the Fire goal." That's how good this goal was.

The game was chippy. Multiple yellows as expected and a few shoving matches took place. Victor Pineda was a huge victim of the chippy play, and selective foul calling by the refereeing. He couldn't buy a call tonight. It seemed almost every time he got the ball, he would be tripped or shoved to the ground without nearly a look at the whistle. On one such occasion, he tripped in the box. But to both his credit and detriment, didn't fall down immediately and tried to continue his run, which wasn't conducive to drawing a penalty, but showed that he doesn't go down easy.

The last chance for the Fire came in stoppage time, when Corben Bone attempted to put Daniel Paladini in on goal, but his pass was just a tad too heavy, and the Santos net minder calmly put an end to that.

Final Score: 2-2

NOTES

Ladies and gentleman, The Future of The Chicago Fire: Victor Pineda. From the outset, he was involved and very positive in the game. His feat are brilliant on the ball, and he knows where to be at all times. Unfortunately, he couldn't find the back of the net, but that seemed to be the only thing wrong for him tonight, if you can call it that.

Tony Walls had a good game, believe it or not. He made several good passes once he got acclimated into the game, which is understandable, considering that he didn't play much before tonight. It's also fairly evident that he's a midfielder as opposed to a defender, where he started the night.

Speaking of weird yet successful positioning, Dominic Oduro played on the right wing tonight. And did so successfully. He was a nuisance all night to Santos' back line and set up Corben Bone on his goal. He was the next best player to Pineda, and can be successful at the position. If Patrick Nyarko gets the call to Europe some time in the next few years, Dom can play in that spot.

Chicago Fire 2 - 2 Santos Laguna

Chicago Fire: 70-Paolo Tornaghi; 20-Tony Walls, 21-Michael Videira, 99-Hunter Jumper; 3-Dan Gargan, 12-Logan Pause (C) (Daniel Paladini 46'), 27-Victor Pineda; 8-Dominic Oduro, 71-Alex (17-Pavel Pardo 78'), 19-Corben Bone; 7-Sherjill MacDonald (Jalil Anibaba 46')

Substitutes not used: 1-Jay Nolly, 13-Gonzalo Segares, 22-Austin Berry, 23-Arne Friedrich, 4-Alvaro Fernandez, 14-Patrick Nyarko, 18-Chris Rolfe

Head Coach: Frank Klopas

Santos Laguna: 1-Oswaldo Sanchez © (25-Miguel Becerra 46'); 2-Oswaldo Alanis, 5-Aaron Galindo (19-Rafael Figueroa 46'), 38-Caesar Ibanez, 57-Kenyi Adachi (20-Osmar Mares 69'); 15-Alejandro Martinez (8-Juan Pablo Rodriguez 46'), 17-Rodolfo Salinas (6-Marc Crosas 46'), 37-Candido Ramirez; 10-Daniel Luduena (87-Walter Sandoval 87'), 49-Carlos Parra (58-Daniel Guzman 73'), 54-Benjamin Joya (67-Carlos Torres 90+')

Substitutes not used: 69-Luis Alberto Garcia

Head Coach: Benjamin Galindo

Scoring Summary
CSL - Benjamin Joya (unassisted) 24'
CSL - Daniel Luduena (unassisted) 29'
CHI - Michael Videira (Alex) 48'
CHI - Corben Bone (Dominic Oduro) 63'

Misconduct Summary
CHI - Victor Pineda (caution) 22'
CSL - Kenyi Adachi (caution) 43'
CSL - Candido Ramirez (caution) 51'
CHI - Daniel Paladini (caution) 61'
CSL - Marc Crosas (caution) 72'
CHI - Hunter Jumper (caution) 72'

Referee: Jesus Cisneros
Assistants: Anthony Vasoli, Brandon Rinkenberger
Fourth Official: Michael Kennedy
Attendance: 18,597