Josh Wolff doesn’t see himself as the Fire’s “super sub,” but those in the crowd of 16,610 at Soldier Field Saturday night might disagree.
Wolff, who came in for Frank Klopas in the 70th minute, volleyed a beautifully flighted ball from Lubos Kubik past San Jose goalkeeper David Kramer in the 80th minute to give the Fire a 2-1 victory.
The victory ended a five-game losing streak for the Fire (14-10) and kept the Clash (9-15) in last place in the Western Conference. Despite winning three U.S. Open Cup matches, the Fire hadn’t won an MLS match since its victory in Dallas on July 4.
“I was in the middle and Lubos went down the left side,” Wolff said. “I just tried to separate myself from the defender. I wasn’t sure if I could one-touch it or not. I just wanted to make good contact on it.”
Kramer had no chance as Wolff sent it perfectly to the far post. His third goal of the season came after what Wolff said were recent missed opportunities.
“I felt I let the team down against Los Angeles–I had some chances,” he said. “That starts to wear you down.”
Wolff has one start this season. Fire coach Bob Bradley didn’t rule out future starts, but he said he likes what the rookie gives the team off the bench.
“Josh’s play this season speaks for itself,” Bradley said. “Not that he’s a designated sub, but I think he’s a very good sub.
“We believe he gives us something that’s different than anyone else when we put him on the field.”
All that matters to Wolff is getting on the field, be it as a starter or a substitute.
“It’s just good to get in the game and get some decent time,” he said.
San Jose scored first when Ronald Cerritos broke free and beat goalkeeper Jorge Campos in the seventh minute. The Fire equalized in the 15th when Roman Kosecki beat Kramer from a sharp angle.
