The Chicago Fire began play last week right on the playoff bubble. They were holding the fifth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, but had very little margin for error. Their standing is a little more comfortable this week thanks to a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.

With the win, Chicago jumped over D.C. United into fourth place in the Eastern Conference. They are now five points ahead of the sixth-place Montreal Impact. Chicago also holds a significant advantage over Montreal in points per game. The Fire have averaged 1.65 points per game through their first 23 games. Compare that with Montreal's 1.27 points per game over 26 games and Chicago's playoff hopes are beginning to look a little more stable.

Chicago wen't to Philadelphia is great position to pick up three points on the road. Philadelphia is ninth in the Eastern Conference and was playing without two starters. The Fire took care of business and in doing so won their second straight game.

They will look to keep it going this Saturday at home against the New England Revolution.

For more on the Chicago Fire, check out Hot Time In Old Town.