Chicago Fire 3-2 Toronto FC: Shaun Maloney on target as Fire win five-goal thriller

Image: Shaun Maloney: Scot scored in Chicago Fire's 3-2 win

Scotland winger Shaun Maloney inspired the Chicago Fire to a thrilling 3-2 win over big-spending Toronto FC and moved into third in the MLS Eastern Conference.

The loss is a third straight defeat for Toronto, who had invested heavily in the off-season to bring in Italy international Sebastian Giovinco and USA international striker Jozy Altidore.

Chicago, losers of their opening three games before last week's victory over Philadelphia, made a bright start, taking the lead in the 14th minute.

Maloney played a delightful backheel into the path of Joevin Jones who confidently slotted home.

Six minutes later, Toronto drew level through their designated player, Giovinco, whose poked shot beat the wrong-footed John Busch in the Chicago goal.

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Former Juventus forward Giovinco then turned provider, breaking down the left and slipping a cross into the path of French midfielder Benoit Cheyrou, who fired home.

Chicago responded quickly with Maloney cutting in from the left and driving a low shot through a crowded penalty area and past Toronto 'keeper Joe Bendik.          

The Canadian side had defender Warren Creavalle sent off after a second yellow card in the 67th minute and a minute later the home side grabbed the winner.

Jeff Larentowicz fired a free-kick into the bottom corner of the net to give the Fire a deserved three points.

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