Heading to Michigan to face the Michigan Bucks on Tuesday, the Chicago Fire did not expect to lose.

But after a 3-2 loss in the third round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, I must say that it could serve as a blessing in disguise.

Losing to a team from the Player Development League (PDL) should be a wake-up call for the Fire.

In the Fire's defense, they have been undermanned with two of their top players sidelined with injuries: defender Arne Friedrich has been out along with midfielder Chris Rolfe. The biggest problem is the offense which has also struggled especially early in games.

With a trip to New England on the horizon and stinging from the loss to the Bucks should have the Fire come out angry and focused. What better way to get a win streak started than against the seventh-place Revolution?

To win on Saturday, the Fire must attack early and often while neutralizing Saer Sene. The MLS rookie from France leads the Revolution in goals scored with seven and shots with 29.

While Sene has flourished, New England has struggled, having also lost their third-round matchup to the Harrisburg Islanders.

The Fire must also avoid falling behind on the scoreboard. This has been what has hampered the Fire so far throughout the season. It happened on Tuesday during the loss to the Bucks with the Fire getting behind 1-0.

They must not fall behind in the game in New England. If Rafael Robayo and Sebastian Grazzini can provide some much-needed energy, the Fire will have a shot to get a early lead and perhaps leave Gillette Stadium victorious.

Follow me on Twitter @ernestshepard.    

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