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MLS Chicago Fire FC

Fire Defeated in 2010 MLS Season Opener

March 27, 2010 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


HARRISON, New Jersey - The Chicago Fire were defeated by the New York Red Bulls 1-0 in the inaugural MLS match at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. Red Bull midfielder Joel Lindpere's first half strike proved to be the difference as the Fire fell for the first time in New Jersey since September of 2007.

In his first MLS match in goal for the Fire, Andrew Dykstra quelled a number of early chances by the Red Bulls, including two Dane Richards shots and a tight angle attempt by Juan Pablo Angel.

The Fire (0-1-0) nearly took the lead in the 23rd minute when Fire forward Brian McBride's bicycle kick attempt sailed past New York Red Bulls goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul and bounced off the left post.

The Red Bulls took the lead in the 40th minute. Red Bull midfielder Danleigh Borman sent a lofted cross into the Fire penalty area and the ball was headed up and in Lenpere's direction. The Estonian took the ball off the half-volley and powered it past Fire goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra. Linpere's goal is his first MLS goal and the first goal scored in MLS play at the Red Bull's state-of-the-art soccer specific stadium.

Fire defender Mike Banner nearly equalized for the Fire in the 62nd minute. Baggio Husidic was fouled moments after entering the match as a second half substitute. On the ensuing free kick, Banner sent a curving left-footed shot that was cleared away by a diving Coundoul.

The Fire next take on the Colorado Rapids on Saturday, April 3 at 3:00 PM CT (TeleFutura) at Dick's Sporting Goods Park before returning home for Opening Night at TOYOTA PARK against the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, April 10 at 7:30 PM CT. For tickets please call 1-888-MLS-FIRE (657-3473) or head to the club's official website at www.Chicago-Fire.com

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Major League Soccer Stories from March 27, 2010


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