Comment (0) Read More...

The Fire XI

Optimism has come full circle following last Thursday's opener with the Revolution. Now, the Fire head West to take on the expansion Earthquakes brimming with confindence on the offensive end. Coach Hamlett has already said several times that he will start the attackers with the best chemistry, but after last game's display, its hard to deny that the current squad is firing on all cylinders. We have to think that the same lineup will be sent out up top, with Frankowski and Barrett getting service from Mapp, Blanco, and Rolfe. The ability to slice and dice is there, as the Quakes defense struggled in their opener against the Galaxy.

In defense, injuries and recovery times are working hand in hand to make almost the entire back line a series of question marks. Daniel Woolard? At this point we wouldn't be all that surprised. However, considering the recent reserve matches, Dasan Robinson's return or even a Wilman Conde sighting could be in the cards. CJ Brown resumed full training this Monday, but is still doubtful to see much playing time considering how other rehabs have gone this season. Brandon Prideaux has also given the backline some quality depth. Ahead of them is the reliable Logan Pause, doing whatever it is Logan Pause does, and lately that has been whatever it takes to hold the defensive midfield.

In net, Jon Busch brings experience, communication, and fire to the defense, already winning over his fair share of fans this season.

More on the opposition and injuries after the jump...

Comment (4) Read More...

We reflect upon last Thursday's home opener vs. New England, a vertiable symphony of goals and sweet revenge. Enjoy our own collection of highlights.

Comment (9) Read More...

Since the Chicago Fire's inception in 1998, the Fireworks For Kids foundation has committed itself to devloping community programs to help the underprivileged children of Chicago. Last week at the Hilton Chicago, their annual benefit brought together players, fans, and coaches from past and present to refelect on the past decade of the Chicago Fire and look forward to the upcoming season.

Highlights and speeches from Denis Hamlett, John Guppy, Diego Gutierrez, CJ Brown can be found online courtesy of

Comment (0) Read More...

When the Fire begin the 2008 season at RSL's Rice-Eccles Stadium this Saturday, they will face a Salt Lake team that has also seen its fair share of turnover this offseason.

Get to know the first opponents of the new year as we take a look at Jason Kreis' new roster and how it could fare this weekend.

Comment (3) Read More...

The latest in the irishoutsider series of MLS Previews is exclusively on Section8Chicago.com.

Comment (0) Read More...

In what GM John Guppy marked as “a signature day” in the history of the Chicago Fire, Denis Hamlett was named the fourth head coach in team history. With 10 years of experience assisting championship managers Bob Bradley and Dave Sarachan, Hamlett remarked that he had been working towards this goal for a long time. “There is no other place I'd rather have this opportunity,” replied the new manager.

Comment (0) Read More...