Revolution Douse Fire, Takes Eastern Playoffs Series Opener

November 1, 2009 7:36 p.m. EST

Foxborough, MA (AHN) - Shalrie Joseph tallied the go-ahead goal in the 75th minute, helping the New England Revolution to a 2-1 victory over the Chicago Fire in the opener of their Eastern Conference semifinal series at Gillette Stadium Sunday.

Emmanuel Osei scored the equalizer just before the half-time break, as the Revs took the advantage in the home-and-home, total goals series.

Both squads, who have met in the postseason in each of the past four years, will clash for the second time in the deciding leg Saturday as the series shift to Toyota Park.

The Fire took an early lead in the 17th minute after Chris Rolfe opened up the scoring for Chicago.