New York Red Bulls vs. Chicago Fire – Game Recap
A lot of interest and excitement was generated prior to this match, with Chicago Fire struggling at the bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference, and New York Red Bulls fighting for lead that table from above.
Most interesting however, was visitors’ Fire unexpected 3-2 win last time these two sides met in Chicago back in August 26th.
The drama did and mystery continued throughout most the night, in what turned out to be a fantastic display of soccer, determination and personal skills on both sides.
Visitors Chicago Fire took an early lead thanks to a penalty conceded by Red Bulls’ Damian Perrinelle who tripped Fire’s Kennedy Igboananike on what appeared to be the outside-right edge of the box.
Fire’s Captain Jeff Larentowicz converted with an accurate kick to the far left (14’).
New York Red Bulls 0 – 1 Chicago Fire
Although New York dominated by far with 67% possession, Chicago did manage to create opportunities. David Accam received a long ball from Michael Stephens and launched a solo attack from midfield.
Managing to shake off Connor Lade, New York’s only defender that was around, Accam doubled Chicago’s lead (26’).
New York Red Bulls 0 – 2 Chicago Fire
The Red Bulls regrouped and started their comeback shortly thereafter. Sacha Kijestan passed a ball from outside the box to Bradly Wright-Phillips who scored from the 16-yard line, giving New York its first point (28’).
New York Red Bulls 1 – 2 Chicago Fire
The hosts kept on retaliating, with Lloyd Sam skilfully passing the ball from the left through Chicago’s defense, to find Mike Grella who receives the ball, stabilizes it and sends it in to give New York the equalizer towards the end of the first half (38’).
New York Red Bulls 2 – 2 Chicago Fire
Chicago’s faith for the night was sealed, thanks to one of its own players, with Fire’s midfielder Michael Stephens sending an arm and tripping New York’s Lloyd Sam inside the box by pulling his right shoulder.
Sacha Kijestan converts the penalty kick to give New York Red Bulls the win (71’).
New York Red Bulls 3 – 2 Chicago Fire
New York Red Bulls are travelling to face New England Revolution on Wednesday, while Chicago Fire will host Orlando City SC on Saturday.
