Conference Finals! Well, sort of…

By: Matthew | November 13th, 2009

So we are facing Real Salt Lake for the Eastern Conference Semis, even though RSL isn’t from the East! I know it is kinda oxymoronic, but the system has worked for the MLS in the past when one Conference (cough cough, the East last year) is completely dominant over the other. Either way, both teams got here in dramatic fashion.

RSL comes to Toyota Park coming off the biggest upset of the playoffs thus far. Two wins against the Supporters Shield winning Crew (BOO!), gives them quite a boost of confidence. I was stunned when I found out they lost at home to RSL, I team I obviously do not give enough credit to.

Chicago, on the other hand, was in an evenly fought set-up against long time playoff and regular season rivals New England Revolution. After going up early in game one, the Fire fell apart to lose 2-1 at Gillete Stadium. Back at Toyota Park, the Fire had a convincing win with a late goal by Blanco. 3-2 on aggregate and we are through.

Now to the game on Saturday night. Overall, the Fire have a very good record against RSL, but we have never faced them in a playoff game. Coming off of a dramatic series win against the Crew (BOO!), we need to give them more credit than they deserve. Over the past two years, they have really built a squad which has playoff potential. However, they are pitiful on the road (2-11-2) but we also have not been stellar at home either. Considering last weeks games, these stats may start to change. RSL will be facing a rejuvenated Fire team, several players should either be getting starts or playing time who have not been on recently due to injury.

I may not have published this on the site before, but it is my worry that this season will be the last for a while which the Fire have a good shot at a championship trophy. Large numbers of players are headed elsewhere at the end of the season so next year will be tough. That is why I really want this year to end with a bang and a cup.

My prediction will be 2-1 victory for the Fire. Goals by McBride then Findley and a game winner by Blanco. LET GO FIRE!
EVERYBODY!
EVERYBODY!
EVERYBODY!
WHO’S THE BEST?
FIRE!
WHO?
FIRE!
WHO?
FIRE!