Three months into the MLS campaign, the new-look Chicago Fire have convinced many a skeptic that they have every intention of maintaining their early-season success well into the future.
As a result, the Men In Red have continued their climb in the Eastern Conference as well as the weekly MLS Power Rankings, where they now stand No. 3 in the 22-team setup. Only fellow Eastern Conference powers Toronto FC and New York City FC check in above the Fire in the rankings released Tuesday by MLS HQ.
Here's what league observers had to say about Chicago's current four-game winning streak and their jump from No. 5 to No. 3:
They've shown enough quality, resolve and fight to officially enter the frame of contenders. Their latest result may have come against an understrength FC Dallas side, but what matters is that they continue to win games they should in business-like fashion. Four big matches vs. East playoff contenders – two on national TV – await them in June.
The aforementioned run of Eastern Conference tests begins Sunday (June 4) with a visit to Orlando City SC, airing live on FS1 at 6:30 p.m. CT.
Click here to view the complete MLS Power Rankings following Week 13.
