Morrow scores as Toronto FC blanks Fire 1-0

TORONTO (AP) Justin Morrow scored in the ninth minute, and Toronto FC beat the Chicago Fire 1-0 on Saturday night.

Morrow ran onto a through ball from Sebastian Giovinco. The pass perfectly split the Chicago back line and the only player Morrow had to beat was teammate Jordan Hamilton.

Morrow had the better angle to the shot and Hamilton wisely gave way, allowing the defender to score his second of the season.

The win vaults Toronto (6-6-5) ahead of two teams and back into the MLS playoff picture. Toronto is tied with the New York Red Bulls for fourth place in the Eastern Conference with 23 points.

Toronto outshot Chicago 10-1 in the first half.

The Fire struggled offensively, but nearly got the tying score when Kennedy Igboananike cut inside and tried a curling right-footed shot that rattled the crossbar in the 64th minute.

Giovinco's goal drought reached seven games. He had a free kick go off the post in the 70th minute. He shot wide on another chance about 10 minutes later.

After the latter opportunity, the passionate Italian let out a scream and tore his jersey from the collar to about midway down his chest. He was forced to get a new shirt from the sidelines.