Chris Rolfe's three first-half goals led the Bulls to a 5-2 win over the New York Red Bulls
On this date in Chicago Fire history, Oct. 23, 2008, Chris Rolfe scored three first-half goals as he led the Fire past the New York Red Bulls, 5-2. Rolfe also had two assists during the regular-season finale to clinch home-field advantage for the first round of the playoffs.
"It's the first time I have had a hat trick since, I don't know, college or high school," Rolfe said afterward.
Rolfe's three tallies (11th minute, 38th and 44th) in a 33-minute span were the second-quickest in the Fire's history, behind only Ante Razov's 23-minute hat trick span on May 6, 2000.
One year later, Rolfe just completed his final regular season with the Fire during Thursday's 1-0 victory against Chivas USA. Following this year's MLS playoffs, Rolfe is joining Danish club Aalborg in January.
Now that the club has secured a 2009 playoff spot, Rolfe has his sights set on finishing his Fire tenure on a high note with a run toward an MLS Cup. "It would be perfect," Rolfe said. "That's obviously the ultimate goal."
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Charlie Corr
Charlie Corr is a Chicago-based soccer writer and sports public relations specialist for two professional soccer teams. Contact him by clicking here.
