Field conditions are expected to be considerably better Saturday as the Fire try again to make up ground in a late season run for a Major League Soccer playoff spot.
New sod was applied to problematic areas this week at Toyota Park and an inspection Thursday of an area measuring approximately 18 by 23 yards showed a thicker and more level surface than the Fire competed on last Saturday.
Fire coach Frank Yallop said the field was in “bad shape” in a statement issued before that contest — a 1-1 tie with Toronto.
Fresh sod was installed on a large area at Toyota Park’s south goal, plus smaller spots at midfield and near the west sideline.
Last Saturday, portions of the grass were discolored, appeared to be dying and were thinner than adjacent grass.
With field issues apparently issues resolved, the ninth-place Fire (5-7-15, 30 points) turn attention to Saturday’s clash with Eastern Conference-leading D.C. United (14-9-5, 47).
With seven games to play, the Fire are eight points out of playoff-qualifying fifth place and 13 points from reaching third to avoid a first-round playoff knockout game.
United, perched atop the Eastern Conference since late August, has just one victory in its last three games and managed just three goals in its last four. The Fire are 1-2-2 in their last five games.
The Fire will be relatively healthy for Saturday’s match. Captain Jeff Larentowicz sat out Thursday with tight groin but should be ready.