Chicago Fire v Toronto FC 2012-08-04

My neighbor convinced a bunch of us to go to the Chicago Fire game last night against Toronto FC.  I smoked chicken wings, sausage, and ribs for the tailgaiting festivities.  We were slowed a bit early by a severe thunderstorm that rolled through the area.  Fortunatley, it arrived earlier than schedule by several hours.  It delayed our parking lot festivities by about 30 minutes, but we were still able to get 2+ hours of fun in before we headed into the game.

A picture of the new 12 x 12 canopy that I bought prior to the game.  It sure came in handy.

The outside of Toyota Park which just so happens to be across the street from where I work.

A view from our seats.

At halftime, we were treated to a soccer games by all of the Chicago area sports teams' mascots.

The Fire made a stupid mistake to give up the first goal of the game to Toronto FC.  However, they rallied in the second half to get 2 goals to win the match 2-0.  The crowd was excited.

Chicago Fire v Richmond Kickers 2011-08-30

Tuesday night, I went to see another Fire game with my friend Mario and a friend from work, Scott.  This game was part of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Series.  We were fortunate to have seats below the overhang so that we could stay dry as the rain fell most of the game.  The Fire move on to the Final on October 4th versus Seattle.  Last week, I also found the song "Fire" by Deal's Gone Bad that is played during the game when the team scores a goal.  Here are some pics.

The Section 8 crowd who chants the entire game.

Chicago Fire v Colorado Rapids 2011-08-27

Last night, I attended my 2nd MLS soccer game with my friends Mario, Joe, and Joe's son Zach.  I was able to get a deal on the tickets through work (which is across the street from the stadium).  We arrived a few hours before the game, and enjoyed a few beverages, chicken wings, sausage, and chips while tailgating.  It was a great night for a game as it was a clear night with temps in the 70's.  It is one of the better game's the Fire have played in the last several months.  Here are a few pics.

View of downtown Chicago from the Stadium

Ticket stub

Some action shots from the game.

 Fire win 2-0!