MLS Chicago Fire FC

Chicago Secures Place In Playoffs After 2-2 Draw With Columbus

Published on October 12, 2008 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


BRIDGEVIEW, ILL. (Oct. 12, 2008) - The Chicago Fire (12-9-7, 43 pts.) tied the Columbus Crew (16-6-6, 54 pts.) today in front of 14,994 fans at TOYOTA PARK. Forward Brian McBride scored two goals against his former team, his first multi-goal game this season. With the tie, the Fire clinches a position in the 2008 MLS Cup playoffs and move into second place in the Eastern Conference.

- With the tie, the Chicago Fire (12-9-7, 43 pts.) clinch a 2008 MLS Cup playoff spot and move into second in the Eastern Conference, tied with New England (43 pts.) and 11 points behind conference leader Columbus (54 pts.)...it is the 10th trip to the postseason in the Fire's 11 years of existence (only time the club has missed the postseason was 2004).

- McBride scored in the 14th minute off a corner taken by Justin Mapp. It is his third goal this season and first ever against his former club...the last time he scored 2 goals in a MLS game was 10/23/03 while with Columbus at Chicago.

- The Crew leveled in the 60th minute of play as Eddie Gavan placed a ball past Busch after collecting the ball from a Fire clear.

- Schelotto scored the second goal for Columbus from the left side of the box with the assist credited to midfielder Robbie Rogers and defender Danny O'Rourke.

- McBride tallied the game-tying goal in the 79th minute. Blanco took a free kick that Conde helped along to McBride for the scoring opportunity.

- With 9 assists, Blanco is tied for fourth in the league.

- Jon Busch leads the league in goals against average (1.00), and save percentage (80.9%), saves (115) and is tied (Kevin Hartman-KC) for first in shutouts (10).

- The Fire are 8-1-3 when leading at the half.

- The Fire are second in the league in goal differential (+8: 36 GF, 28 GA) behind Columbus (+16; 48 GF, 32 GA).

- Chicago is 3-4-3 in day games.

- The Fire wore 10 year anniversary uniforms for the first half of today's match. The jerseys were auctioned off in a silent auction during the first half with proceeds benefiting the FireWorks for Kids Foundation.

- The Chicago Fire will return to MLS action on Saturday, Oct. 18, against Toronto FC in Toronto at BMO Field (2:30 p.m., My50).

For official box scores and game stats, please visit www.chicago-fire.com.

Check out the Chicago Fire FC Statistics

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Major League Soccer Stories from October 12, 2008


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