The Fire are 4-6-6 this season. They are 4-1-3 when playing at home but 0-5-3 on the road.

STLFC played the Fire in the 2017 U.S. Open Cup at Soccer Park in Fenton. STLFC played a strong game but eventually dropped a 1-0 decision to the MLS squad. STLFC also faced an MLS club in the 2015 U.S. Open Cup, dropping a 1-0 road decision to the Sporting Kansas City.

“This is a great opportunity for our guys to test themselves at the highest level of soccer in the U.S.,” Pulis said. “And it’s my first chance to coach against an MLS club. It’s something I’m looking forward to and I think our players are viewing it the same way. There’s no real pressure on us; we just want to go out, play our game and make as good a showing as possible.”

STLFC is coming off a 2-1 road loss on Saturday to Hartford Athletic. Pulis’ club has been without a number of key players due to injury, including top scorer Kyle Greig, midfield leader Joaquin Rivas and defender Sean Reynolds.

“It’s not an ideal situation, but hopefully we’ll get healthy in the next few weeks,” Pulis said. “This is an opportunity for our other guys to step up and show what they can do. We feel that if we play the way we’re capable, we can compete. It’s a game of 11 vs. 11, it’s not about where you’ve played previously or how much you’re paid, it’s about playing the game on that night. I know our guys are excited about this opportunity.”

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