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Well folks, everything has come down to this. In about 4 hours, the fate of the Chicago Fire will be known. A loss would end our playoff run extremely prematurely, but a win would propel us into a matchup against Sporting KC. Without getting too far ahead of ourselves however, the focus is tonight. ESPN2. Start of the 2012 MLS Playoffs. Halloween Night against a familiar foe. I don't know about you, but I am already jacked up writing this piece and it's only noon. These next 8 hours are going to go by VERY slowly.
I expect a tough, physical game tonight that is close. With the Fire coming off of a 5 game stretch of wild unpredictability, anything could happen tonight. Fortunately, we have Frank at the helm and veteran leaders. I have no doubts they will have this team ready and raring to go. Despite the fact that the Dynamo starters got some extra rest, they have to come into OUR house. We dominate teams from the East at home, and I expect more of the same tonight. I have a good feeling about this game, I will be honest. By no means do I think this will be a cakewalk, but I am confident the team will bounce back from the DC game.
I will predict a 2-1 Fire win. I think it will be 1-1 after 90 minutes, with goals courtesy of Will Bruin and Sherjill MacDonald. In extra time, Chris Rolfe will bring it all home. Lineups will be posted before kickoff. We hope you join us tonight. LET'S GO FIRE!