The Chicago Fire beat the Philadelphia Union 3-1 on Aug. 12 at PPL Park. The Fire earned their eleventh win this season and are currently in fourth place in the MLS Eastern Conference. I think the team's continued improvement in the last several games is a positive indication that the roster changes are working.
Three Goals for the Chicago Fire
Chris Rolfe made two goals on Aug. 12 while Arne Friedrich made one. The Philadelphia Union earned an own goal in the 34th minute of the match. The Fire's offense took multiple chances throughout the game, but I think defense improved more in the second half. Both offense and defense looked better than in previous matches this season.
Sherjill MacDonald and Alvaro Fernandez
Head coach Frank Klopas decided to use several new Chicago additions again on Aug. 12. Sherjill MacDonald was finally able to join the starting lineup, and his performance at PPL Park was promising. Although his own chances did not translate into goals, his assist to Chris Rolfe in the 43rd minute was successful. Alvaro Fernandez took a chance in the first half and has also shown improvement.
Logan Pause is Injured
Logan Pause was replaced with Patrick Nyarko in the 44th minute of the Aug. 12 match. The Chicago Fire have listed Pause as suffering a "rib injury" during the game. The severity of the condition is not clear, but he was able to leave the field unassisted, so this is a good indication.
Philadelphia Union Lose their Drive in the Second Half
During the first half, both teams battled for possession and took multiple chances. However, near the end of the second half, it became clear that the Philadelphia Union were not going to be able to overcome the goal deficit and seemed resigned to the idea. This may have been influenced by the absence of Carlos Valdez.
The Next Game for the Chicago Fire
The Chicago Fire will face the New England Revolution on Aug. 18 at Toyota Park. The Revolution are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference while the Fire are in fourth place. This may be another good opportunity to earn three points at home.
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Lana follows MLS, UEFA and FIFA. She has been a faithful fan of the Chicago Fire since 1998. Follow @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
