MLS Chicago Fire FC

Fire Tie Toronto FC 1-1 in Preseason Scrimmage

February 20, 2008 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


BRADENTON, Fla. (Feb. 20, 2008) - The Chicago Fire tied Toronto FC 1-1 today in a preseason scrimmage at the IMG Academies, in Bradenton, Fla. The Fire opened scoring with a goal from forward Calen Carr in the 52nd minute, but Toronto leveled the score in the 78th minute off a Jarrod Smith tally.

After battling through a physical first half, the Fire notched the first goal just eight minutes into the second half as forward Chad Barrett ripped a hard shot on goal toward Toronto rookie goalkeeper Josh Wagenaar. Wagenaar made the initial save, but the ball deflected to Carr, whose subsequent shot gave the "Men in Red" a one goal advantage.

Despite the Fire's defensive efforts, Toronto substitute midfielder Jarrod Smith received a ball from midfielder Tyler Hemming and slipped a shot into the lower right corner of the goal in the 78th minute to tie the game.

Chicago nearly go the go-ahead goal in the 86th minute, when midfielder Jesus Mendoza held onto the ball and fought through two defenders to slip a pass to fellow midfielder Peter Lowry. Lowry snuck in a quick pass to forward Dwight Barnett behind the defense for a shot. Barnett's attempt sailed high and over the crossbar for a goal kick.

The Fire return to Chicago this evening and have three days off before their departure to Mexico on Sunday. Recently signed forward Andy Herron will join the team during the second leg of preseason in Mexico, where Chicago will take on Dorados, Necaxa, and San Luis.

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