Chicago Fire hammered DC United 4-1 as Chris Rolfe scored a brace in their MLS Eastern Conference clash.
The home side took the lead in the second minute when Rolfe took advantage of an error from Joe Willis, as he lifted the ball into the net, with the keeper stranded.
Chicago doubled their lead minutes later, as Jeff Larentowicz did brilliantly down the right before cutting the ball back to Joel Lindpere, who drilled it into the bottom corner.
Just before half time, Rolfe got his second of the game and the Fire's third as he latched onto a ball over the top of the DC defence and chipped an effort over Willis.
After the break Chicago made it four when Quincy Amarikwa was brought down inside the penalty area by Daniel Woolard and the referee awarded a spot kick, which was duly converted by Mike Magee in the 56th minute.
United did score a consolation goal in spectacular fashion as Luis Silva fired a shot into the top corner from 25 yards out, but it was too little too late for the visitors.
Simon Sinclair
