The Fire head on "Sherman's march"* into the second game of the season on the back of last week's dominating collapse versus New England. The Fire are going up against Atlanta United FC, the GREATEST TEAM IN THE HISTORY OF AMERICA, at least in their own minds. Atlanta's fanbase is almost Cosmos-like in their delirium about themselves. Unlike the delusion of the Cosmos "supporters", at least Atlanta actually have a team and have been pretty successful in their short history (last year was a blip, I suspect). The Fire have never picked up a point in against Atlanta in Atlanta and have been outscored 8-1 in those games, while the Fire are 3-0-1 (WTL) against Atlanta in Chicago, I believe. Josef Martinez is still trying to regain match fitness, playing 15 minutes last week, so he likely will not start (although SB Nation states he may start). With Atlanta being in the CCL, they may have that in their minds, which might provide an opening for the Fire to pick up a point or three tonight (probably not, though). The Fire looked pretty good offensively last week, with a fair amount of movement up front. Stojanovic seemed particularly good and was very active, before slowing down later in the game. The Fire's defense let them down last week...again (still, always?). I can never predict a Fire loss, so I will say a 1-1 draw, with the Fire blowing a lead late in the game. As I am always wrong in any prediction, I suspect that will not be the final score line. *(Yes, history nerds, Sherman commenced his march in Atlanta; it was not the destination. I know).
1-0 smash and grab win. Score early, often, and then bunker at the first sign of trouble. That is the personnel this team has and so we gotta use that.
Martinez starts on the bench for Atlanta United FC. Atlanta announcer: Chicago Fire "led" by Francisco Calvo. Ugh. Nice plastic pitch, Atlanta.
Broadcast has started on ESPN+ ESPN+ playing the Atlanta broadcast. Kevin Egan is the lead announcer. Fortunately, no Danhole Kelly.
I am busy sorting books for the new bookshelves (7 months and we still have an entire garage and office full of totes of stuff). I did find my copy of the Heart and Soul box set of Joy Division. I have been looking for it for years. I had packed it away with some books when we are were remodeling our kitchen and had to make space in the living room. Just two days ago, I thought about it and thought I might have buy a new one, but they list for $125.00-275.00, if I could find it. No way I would pay that much on the secondary market.