Two road games in two weeks, and all we have to show for it is two points. Two road games in two weeks, and at least we have two points to show for it.
The first game against NYCFC saw the Fire play well in the first half, taking a 2-1 lead. Then it all fell apart. Whatever was said or wasn't said, the Fire came out flat, and ended up giving up a late goal to the 10-man NYCFC team to walk out of New York with just a point.
A week later and a trip to Ohio - this time roles would be reversed. After a poor display in the first half, the Fire went into the break down 1-0. They started the second half much like the first, giving up another goal to Kei Kamara to go down 2-0 in the 55th minute.
Apparently, the thought of another ugly loss woke up the Fire as they started to play like they did in the first half in New York the week before. A goal from Accam in the 58th cut the lead in half and a stoppage time winner from a Jason Johnson header shared the spoils with the Crew.
If only Yallop and company can prepare the team to play a full 90 minutes, we may get a chance at taking all three points - a feat the Fire haven't accomplished in the previous 4 games.
Let's rank some players
My 'stud of the week' has to be Razvan Cocis. Even though he only played 71 minutes, he was active all night long. Pushing up into the attack, getting back to his defensive duties, and doing the ugly work in the middle, he was what a box-to-box mid should be. I don't see why he should not be given the start on Saturday when the Fire take on the Impact at Toyota Park.
My 'atta boy' goes to Jason Johnson. He came on in the 67th minute and played his part, as sub should coming off the bench. Plus he is the first Fire striker to record a goal this season. He was able to get his head on an Eric Gehrig cross for the game-tying goal. Does this mean he's earned his starting spot in the lineup? Maybe ... but I still think that Kennedy Igboananike should start, with Johnson should be the first option off the bench.
My 'dud of the week' goes to none other but Guly Do Prado. He came on in the 83rd minute and brought nothing to the match. He was forced to play out wide but still brought nothing. No energy and no will to actually put a stamp on the game. I see no reason why he should see the field the rest of the season, or the rest of the time he is here in Chicago. This brings me to my next point.
Come on Frank, really? I mean, really? Why do you continue to play Shipp in a position that does not highlight his skill set? Shipp has shown that he loves to play in the #10 role with the ability to float around and create offensive. Out on the wing his creative ability is diminished and he will be ineffective during the games where he is forced to play out wide. Also Frank, why do you continue to bring in Do Prado? He has shown absolutely nothing to garner any playing time. Why not bring in Stephens in Friday's situation? Sometimes Yallop's substitution choices are very questionable and - in the case of Do Prado - subbing for this ponderous veteran will always be questioned.