Lions Host Brazilian Champion Fluminense FC in International Friendly Saturday
Kickoff 7:30 p.m. at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl
Orlando City SC hosts Brazilian Champion Fluminense FC in an international friendly on Saturday, June 22, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The game will broadcast in Brazil on Globo TV, one of Brazil’s largest TV networks.
“We’re delighted to host a club like Fluminense,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “It’s not very often you get to play one of the biggest clubs from Brazil. They have some great players playing for them and it’s just a great opportunity for our players and fans alike to see them play.”
Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the top level of Brazilian soccer. This year they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious Libertadores of American Cup. Led by Head Coach Abel Braga, who began his professional career with the club, Fluminense boasts some of the top talent from the country of Brazil and beyond.
The team has been in Orlando since Monday, training at the club’s practice facility in Sanford while taking in the Central Florida area.
Saturday’s match adds to the list of top-level clubs Orlando has played in the Central Florida area, which includes: English Premier League clubs Newcastle United, Stoke City, Bolton Wanderers and A.S. Roma of Serie A.
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Orlando City Lions undefeated in last 25 regular season home matches
Behind 87th and 90th minute goals by Jamie Watson and Dom Dwyer, Orlando City (10-1-2, 32 points) topped visiting Antigua Barracuda FC (0-10-0, 0 points) 2-0 Sunday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The win marked the 25th consecutive regular season home match without defeat, dating back to June of 2011.
The Lions controlled possession early on, with the team adjusting to a lineup that featured 10 different starters from Friday night’s 2-0 win over the visiting Phoenix FC. Players including Defenders Justin Clark and Brian Fekete, along with former Orlando City U23s defensive stalwart Oumar Diakhite, made their first starts of the 2013 season- getting valuable minutes under their belts against Antigua.
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida
Early chances by Midfielders Adama Mbengue and Assistant Coach/Midfielder Ian Fuller loosened up the Antigua backline toward the middle of the first half, with the Lions gaining more chances as the match went on. Mbengue and Fuller both had attempts ring off the right-hand post, coming dangerously close to the back of the net. The chances continued to mount for Orlando, but despite the increased pressure the clubs went into halftime tied 0-0.
League-leading scorer Dom Dwyer, Forward Long Tan and Midfielder Jamie Watson came in after the break to give the Lions a spark up front, looking to get by the Antigua backline. After chipping away and earning continued chances, Orlando finally got their chance with three minutes left to play in regulation.
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida
Former Portland Timber Midfielder Freddie Braun was making a turn in the 18-yard box in the 86th minute, only for Barracuda Defender Dublin George to trip Braun- awarding Orlando the penalty. Watson converted in the bottom-left corner past Goalkeeper Molvin James, putting the Lions up 1-0. The penalty conversion marked the second straight game in which Watson converted an attempt and his seventh goal of the season.
The Lions weren’t done, with Watson finding Dwyer on a well-played ball past the Antigua defense, with the striker scoring his 15th of the season in the 90th. The conversion extended Dwyer’s single-season record of goals in a USL PRO season, which he broke on Friday in the team’s win over Phoenix.
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida
Goalkeeper Jon Kempin, who saw his first regular season start since an April 19th match against the LA Blues, played the full 90 minutes Sunday night behind a steady Orlando backline. The 0-0 draw was the Kansas native’s first shutout in purple colors since coming on loan at the beginning of the season.
Tonight’s win marked the 25th consecutive match the Lions have been undefeated in USL PRO regular season play at home, dating back to the team’s inaugural season in June of 2011 (Antigua). The Lions are 7-0-0 at home in 2013, scoring 25 goals while only allowing six at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.
Head Coach Adrian Heath looked past the three points after the match, saying the team needs to improve and was not impressed with the club’s play.
“We were pathetic,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel sorry for the supporters who came out and watched that performance. I’ve learned an awful lot about a lot of people today.”
Orlando enters into the fourth round of the US Open Cup this Wednesday, June 12, in Kansas City, Kansas, against Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City. The Lions topped the Colorado Rapids 3-1 on May 28 at the Florida Citrus Bowl, marking the first time in franchise history the club has beaten an MLS club in the US Open Cup. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. EST.
The four players on loan from SKC, including Dom Dwyer, Jon Kempin, Christian Duke and Yann Songo’o, will be unavailable for selection on Wednesday. For more information on Wednesday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida
Orlando City Match Recap
Team 1 2 Final
Orlando City 0 2 2
Antigua Barracuda FC 0 0 0
Scoring Summary:
ORL- Jamie Watson (penalty) 87th
ORL- Dom Dwyer (Jamie Watson) 90th
Lineups/Substitutions:
Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Erik Ustruck, Oumar Diakhite, Justin Clark, Brian Fekete (Bryan Burke 66’), M Adama Mbengue (Jamie Watson 53’), Christian Duke, Ian Fuller (Dom Dwyer 46’), Freddie Braun, Jonathan Mendoza, F Dennis Chin (Long Tan 53’)
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Dwyer with brace, Burke with goal/assist in Orlando City SC franchise’s first win over MLS club in US Open Cup play
Orlando City SC (USL PRO) defeated the visiting Colorado Rapids (Major League Soccer) 3-1 Tuesday night in the third round of US Open Cup play at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla. Forward Dom Dwyer notched two goals in the second half, leading the club to its first-ever win over an MLS club in US Open Cup play and advancing Orlando to the 4th round of competition.
“I think just before and during the second half we were far and away the better team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I thought we were worthy winners and it would have been a travesty if we didn’t take home the win.”
Photo: Alex Schierholtz
Orlando got on the board early, with a Bryan Burke score giving the Lions the 1-0 advantage. In the 4th minute, the winger received the ball on the edge of the box- rifling his attempt off a Colorado defender and into the back of the net. The goal was Burke’s second consecutive, counting regular season play, with the former Kitsap Puma (PDL) star netting his first goal of the season Saturday night in USL PRO season over Wilmington.
Colorado quickly responded, with a defensive turnover leading to the equalizer. Rapids’ Midfielder Kamani Hill jumped on a bad pass by the Orlando backline in the 17th minute, putting his attempt past Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo to even the game at 1-1.
After finishing out the first half tied, Orlando began the second half on the attack. In the 48th minute, Burke surged down the right hand side- floating a ball to a waiting Dom Dwyer on the back post. The USL PRO leading scorer whipped his header attempt into the back left corner, giving the Lions a 2-1 lead.
Photo: Alex Schierholtz
Orlando continued to push forward, resulting in a costly mistake by Colorado Goalkeeper Steward Ceus in the 57th minute. After getting free past the Rapids backline, Dwyer had a 1-on-1 with Ceus, with the goalkeeper making a last-ditch effort by tackling the Cuckfield, native, just outside the 6-yard box. The tackle resulted in a straight red, leaving the Rapids down a man heading into the final 30 minutes of the match.
It didn’t take long for Orlando to capitalize on the man-up advantage. Former Orlando City U23s Midfielder Adama Mbengue played a great ball through to Long Tan on the edge of the box in the 63rd minute, with the former DC United Striker finding Dwyer on the reception of his pass. Dwyer converted past the newly-subbed Clint Irwin for the 3-1 lead. Orlando controlled possession to close out the match, topping the Rapids with the final score 3-1.
Photo: Alex Schierholtz
The win marked a few firsts for the Lions, including the club’s first win over an MLS side in Open Cup play and first time advancing to the 4th round of competition.
At time of distribution, the winner of the Des Moines Menace (PDL) and Sporting Kansas City (MLS) was not determined. Whichever club wins will play Orlando in the 4th round, with the Lions traveling to Sporting Park to play SKC in case the MLS club prevails while hosting the PDL side in Orlando if the Menace win. The match will be on Wednesday, June 12. Orlando is the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC.
Orlando City Match Recap
Team 1 2 Final
Orlando City SC 1 2 3
Colorado Rapids 1 0 1
Scoring Summary:
ORL- Bryan Burke (unassisted) 4th
COL- Kamani Hill (unassisted) 18th
ORL- Dom Dwyer (Bryan Burke) 48th
ORL- Dom Dwyer (Long Tan) 63rd
Lineups/Substitutions:
Orlando City-Miguel Gallardo, Yann Songo’o, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Rob Valentino, Anthony Pulis, James O’Connor, Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue (Jamie Watson 67), Dom Dwyer, Long Tan (Dennis Chin 76)
Colorado Rapids-Steward Ceus, Marvell Wynne, Shane O’Neill, German Mera, Anthony Wallace, Dillon Powers, Nick LaBrocca (Atiba Harris 72), Kamani Hill (Deshorn Brown 66), Tony Cascio, Kevin Harbottle (Clint Irwin 58), Danny Mwanga
Penalty Summary:
ORL- Anthony Pulis (Yellow) 32nd
COL- Shane O’Neill (Yellow) 36th
COL- Steward Ceus (Red) 56th
ORL- Adama Mbengue (Yellow) 65th
COL- Atiba Harris (Yellow) 80th
Match Facts:
Kickoff:7:30 p.m.
Weather:Clear/Cloudy
Attendance: 4,128
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Club to host Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids on Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl
Behind one goal in the first and second halves, Orlando City SC advanced past the PDL’s Ocala Stampede 2-1 Tuesday night in Ocala, Fla., at Forest High School. With the win, the Lions will host Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Colorado Rapids next Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.
“I thought our first half performance was very good,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We gifted them (Ocala) a goal in the second half and let them back in the game. But at the end of the day we bring the Rapids to Orlando next week and it will be a good game for us.”
The Lions came out on the attack to begin the match, with league-leading scorer Dom Dwyer nearly converting chances early on, including a bicycle kick in the 20th minute of play. The Sporting Kansas City loanee and the Lions frontline continued to press, with it paying off just past the halfway point of the first half.
After an Ocala throw-in, Defender Erik Ustruck took away control from the Stampede, passing his attempt into the box where an Ocala defender knocked a deflection to Dwyer. The striker then lobbed the deflection up and over Goalkeeper Lex Craggs, putting Orlando up 1-0.
Just after the second half began, the Lions went up 2-0 after an Adama Mbengue strike in the 50th minute. The midfielder found space just inside the 18-yard box, blasting a low strike past the Ocala defense and into the lower-right corner for the two-goal advantage.
Ocala responded with a goal of their own in the 58th minute, with Midfielder Christian Blandon converting a score after Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin made two diving saves in a penalty situation. The Stampede were awarded a penalty after Kempin took down an Ocala striker inside the box, with the Sporting KC loanee making two saves initially- only for Blandon to secure the follow up and cut the lead down to 2-1.
Orlando regained composure after the goal, retaining possession while getting multiple chances at a third score. The last part of the match was a back and forth affair, with the Lions ultimately holding strong and ending the match with the victory.
The club plays one regular season match on Saturday, May 25, vs. the Wilmington Hammerheads before hosting the Rapids in the third round of Open Cup playTuesday night at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Tuesday’s game marks the first time Orlando has hosted an MLS team at home in the knockout tournament, with the Lions traveling to opponent’s venues in the third round of the past two seasons.
Tickets will be available on www.Orlandocitysoccer.com/tickets. For more information on the upcoming matches, please visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.
Orlando City/Ocala Stampede Match Recap
Photos: Orlando City SC
Team 1 2 Final
Orlando City SC 1 1 2
Ocala Stampede 0 1 1
Scoring Summary:
ORL- Dom Dwyer (unassisted) 27th
ORL- Adama Mbengue (unassisted) 50th
OCA- Christian Blandon (unassisted) 58th
Lineups/Substitutions:
Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Erik Ustruck, Justin Clark, Oumar Diakhite, Brian Fekete, M Jonathan Mendoza, Adama Mbengue, Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, F Dom Dwyer (Dennis Chin 46’), Jean Alexandre (Long Tan 66’)
Ocala Stampede- GK Lex Craggs, D David Kamali, Liam Gourlay, Rafael Alves (Jack Bailey 84’), Samuel Duininck, M Stephen Walmsley, William Tice (Kevin Ireland 70’) , Christian Blandon, Wayne Roberts (Kely Breitmeyer 46’), F Amany Nunes, Kenneth Hogg
Orlando City first match against MLS Reserve League
squad this Sunday in Tacoma, Washington
After capping off a 7-2 victory Saturday night, Orlando City (5-1-1, 16 points) travels to Tacoma, Washington, to face the Seattle Sounders Reserves on Sunday, May 12, at Cheney Stadium. The game marks the first reserve-league match of the season for the Lions in the 2013 season, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. EST.
The Sounders Reserves are 1-1-1 through three games played in the 2013 MLS Reserve League. Seattle topped the San Jose Earthquakes Reserves 2-1 in their last match at Starfire Stadium, capturing their first win of the Reserve League season. The inter-league match between the Sounders and Lions will count toward each team’s respective league tables as per an agreement made between Major League Soccer (MLS) and USL PRO in the offseason.
The Lions are heading into the week coming off a 7-2 win over visiting Antigua Barracuda FC. The game set franchise records in biggest goal differential (+5) and goals scored (7) in any USL PRO match since the team began play in 2011. Sporting Kansas City loanee and Orlando City SC Forward Dom Dwyer scored his first hat trick in Orlando colors in just 40 minutes, leading the team to the dominant victory.
Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath commented on the striker’s play after the match, saying he is impressed so far with the Cuckfield, England, native’s play.
“Dom’s got a history of scoring goals,” said Heath. “He looks as though he’s going to score every time he plays.”
The Seattle match marks the beginning of a three-game road swing for Orlando, who continues on to play away against the Harrisburg City Islanders and Rochester Rhinos on May 17 and May 18, respectively. The upcoming three road games is the only time the Lions will play a trio of matches away from Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, where they are 4-0-0 in 2013.
Orlando City Faces Top-Place LA Blues Today at 7:30 p.m.
Lions look for win over Blues after early season loss on Friday at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl
Orlando City continues their home stand this Friday, April 19th, against the LA Blues at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. The two met last week in California, with the Lions upended 1-0 by the upstart Blues on their second road match in three days to begin the regular season.
“We haven’t strung a full 90 together that we’ve all been proud of, but we’re improving,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel that we’re getting into some sort of rhythm and we’re looking forward to the game on Friday.”
The Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) most recently topped Rochester 3-1 at their home opener on Sunday night. Inclement weather caused the game to be delayed nearly two hours, with Dom Dwyer, Long Tan and Jamie Watson scoring for Orlando after the long delay for the win.
LA (3-1-0, 9 points) stands at the top of the table through the early 2013 USL PRO Season. Orlando fell to the Blues last week 1-0 at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. A goal in the 80th minute from former Orlando Striker George Davis IV put LA on top, giving them their first-ever victory over the Lions in franchise history.
Orlando is 2-1-1 all-time against LA, with Heath stating this year’s Blues squad is much improved over last season’s team.
“I told the guys before we played LA the first time that the Blues are going to be a lot better than last year,” Heath added. “The coach and GM are serious football people over there and we expect them to be strong.”
Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, with pregame festivities including a concert by local band The Crazy Carls. Friday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com. For more information on Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.
Forwards Long Tan, Dom Dwyer, Jamie Watson score in home-opener victory Sunday night
Orlando City began their home schedule in winning style Sunday night, topping the visiting Rochester Rhinos 2-0 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions (2-1-0) and Rhinos (0-2-0) had to withstand a combined two hours of stoppage due to severe weather in the area as Orlando took home their second win of the young 2013 USL PRO season.
“I was confident that if we scored the first goal we’d be ok,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I love playing in the rain because the pace of the game picks up, so besides the wind I thought the conditions were fine.”
A steady rain came down on the field at the start of the game, making for a fast-paced match between the two clubs. In the 13th minute, Orlando got their first scoring chance of the game as Sporting KC and Orlando City Forward Dom Dwyer found 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino behind the Rochester backline.
Molino’s effort went off the right post after Rhino Goalkeeper Kristian Nicht was lured out of his box due to the danger, with the pressure from Orlando continuing through the beginning of the first half.
But as the rain continued and thunderclouds began to roll in, the match was postponed due to severe weather in the area in the 21st minute. The break lasted a total of 56 minutes, with the match resuming at 7:24 p.m. only to be postponed again minutes later. The game finally got underway at 8:30 p.m., totalling close to a two-hour delay.
When play finally resumed, Orlando continued their strong pace of passing and possession. Midfielder Jamie Watson nearly capitalized on a chance in the 37th minute, finding an open lane just outside the 18-yard mark with his attempt just missing the far post. The attacking continued, with it paying off for the Lions in stoppage time of the first 45. After Kevin Molino followed up an attempt from Dwyer, Tan found the rebound – blasting his attempt past Nicht for the 1-0 lead.
The Lions didn’t let up in the beginning of the second half, jumping on the Rochester backline to score the second goal of the game. Winger Bryan Burke placed a well-played cross to a charging Dom Dwyer in the 47th minute, who easily slotted home his second goal of the season to give Orlando the 2-0 advantage.
Watson continued the scoring for Orlando in the 62nd minute, cleaning up a loose ball in the Rhinos’ box for the 3-0 advantage. Rochester scored in the 90th minute of play as Forward Blake Brettschneider lofted his shot up and over Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin. The score was too little, too late, however, with the Lions taking home the victory 3-1.
Orlando continues home play this Friday, April 19th, against the LA Blues. Orlando has already played the California-based squad this season, falling 1-0 on the road in Fullerton, Calif. Blues’ Forward George Davis scored the lone goal in the 80th minute for LA, propelling them to the home win. The Lions are 2-1-1 all time against the Blues in four meetings between the two clubs.
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Local bands to play in concert series before home matches in 2013
ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City, in cooperation with corporate partner MetroPCS, announced the 2013 MetroPCS Concert Series on Wednesday. The concert series, which will feature local bands from the Central Florida area before each home match in 2013 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, adds to the already exciting gameday atmosphere at Orlando City matches as the club heads into its third year of operation.
“This is our second season partnering with OCSC as the exclusive wireless provider and we appreciate their efforts in delivering our message to the Central Florida community,” said Chandra Waters, director of Advertising and Public Relations at MetroPCS. “In return, we are proud to support them on their journey toward joining Major League Soccer (MLS), as well as introduce fans to the wide range of local music talent.”
Concerts will commence one hour prior to kickoff in the MetroPCS fan zone, encouraging fans to come and experience the in-stadium atmosphere before the opening whistle blows. The band lineup, brought to you by WJRR, for the first half of the season is below. The second half will be announced at a later date. This year’s fan zone will be the franchise’s busiest, with more booths, sponsors and activities than ever before.
“The fans of OCSC are in for a real treat this season with the addition of the Concert Series during pre-game festivities,” continued Waters. “From the moment they enter the stadium, there will be a palpable feel of excitement! There will be something for everyone and we are proud to be the exclusive sponsor of the Concert Series, which will bring in some of the most talented local artists in Central Florida.”
The concert series begins with Dropa Stone at the Lions home opener on Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The band plays a rock-based style of music with blues, funk and reggae influences. The Concert Series will take place in the concourse area of the stadium and fans are encouraged to come early and enjoy the music before each match.
*Band for 5/25 match to be determined at a later date.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Orlando To Host Brazilian Powerhouse Fluminense FC
Game to be played on June 22 at the Florida Citrus Bowl against 2012 Brazilian Champions
Orlando, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Fluminense Football Club, is proud to announce an international friendly between the two teams on Saturday, June 22, at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The announcement comes off the heels of new Brazilian Owner Flavio Augusto da Silva making a significant investment in Orlando City last week, exhibiting the Lion’s strong new ties with the country of Brazil.
“We are delighted to be hosting the reigning Brazilian Champions, Fluminense,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “They are one of the very best teams in all of Brazil and have a host of world-class players in their squad. I’m sure it will be a great spectacle for our fans.”
Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the top level of Brazilian soccer. This year they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious Libertadores of American Cup. Led by Head Coach Abel Braga, who began his professional career with the club, Fluminense boasts some of the top talent from the country of Brazil and beyond. Midfielder Deco and forward Fred headline the club’s players coming to Orlando for the friendly.
“We are honored to have been invited to participate in this international friendly match and, most importantly, of the new relationship being built with Orlando City,” said Fluminense’s president Peter Siemsen.
The match adds to the list of top-level clubs Orlando has played in the Central Florida area, which includes: English Premier League clubs Newcastle United, Stoke City, Bolton Wanderers and A.S. Roma of Serie A. The ability to draw major franchises from top-level leagues is something Rawlins says is an important factor in Major League Soccer’s considerations of who gains entry into the league.
“Arranging this took a lot of work and several meetings with Fluminense but it once again shows our commitment to bringing the very best in club soccer to Orlando,” Rawlins added.
The Lions announced last Monday that the Rio de Janeiro native Silva invested in Orlando City, funding the club’s share of a private/publicly funded multi-purpose soccer stadium in downtown Orlando and future acquisition of a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. The new owner also told those in attendance that his Brazilian contacts with major companies and soccer franchises will be important moving forward, with the Fluminense release displaying just that.
Fans can buy their tickets to the friendly beginning Tuesday, February 26, at 12 p.m. Tickets start at just $15 and can be bought online by going to Ticketmaster.com. Fans can also buy Orlando City 2013 season tickets, which start at just $125. The Lions kick off the regular season at home on Sunday, April 14, at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos. For more information on tickets, fans can call 855-ORL-CITY.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Investment brings club one step closer to the goal of securing an MLS franchise for Orlando
Orlando City Soccer announced Monday that Brazilian native Flávio Augusto da Silva has made a significant investment and future commitment to the Orlando City franchise. The investment will be used for the club’s share of a private/publicly funded multi-purpose soccer stadium in downtown Orlando and future acquisition of an MLS franchise.
“Every year, hundreds of thousands of Brazilians visit Orlando,” said Silva. “It’s our number one destination in the US and us Brazilians, besides being famous for our friendliness and willingness to buy at the outlets and malls; we are also a nation that loves soccer. More than that, we are a country of 200 million fanatics for soccer! It is a great honor that I now become a part of this vibrant soccer club, Orlando City, which is being built with boldness to make history in this country and will give much pride to this City.”
Until last week, Flávio Augusto chaired the Ometz Group, with 16 holding companies, including the country’s leading English language schools for adults, Wise Up (FIFA World Cup Sponsor). On February 7th, the Ometz Group was acquired by Abril Educação, one of Brazil’s largest media companies. Today, Mr. da Silva still leads the Wise Up Group and is also the third largest shareholder in Abril Educação. As part of the acquisition, Mr. da Silva will oversee the development of Abril Educação operations around the world.
He also owns the Canal Geração de Valor “Value Generation”, where he shares entrepreneurial experience and advice; he has more than 304K followers on twitter and 670K on Facebook.
The new owner gives Orlando a major advantage in its drive to be named the next MLS expansion franchise. To secure a move up to the major leagues, MLS requires clubs to have, among other things, a fiscally stable and established ownership group and a stadium seating between 18,000 and 25,000. The Citrus Bowl and its upcoming redevelopment does not meet these needs, therefore, the club is on record stating that a 18,500 seat downtown stadium is their goal. The Lions recently presented an independent economic impact study to local press and political leaders which demonstrated that the stadium and MLS franchise would create a $1.3 billion impact for the region over the next 30-years.
Florida Governor Rick Scott came out in favor of Orlando’s MLS bid last week, stating “I am very supportive and will do everything I can do at the state level.”
MLS Commissioner Don Garber visited Orlando in March of 2012, leaving the town after meeting with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and County Mayor Teresa Jacobs. Impressed by the support from Lion fans at a town-hall style meeting, Garber said “It’s not a matter of if, but a case of when” in regards to a franchise in Central Florida. The club has been in close communication with Garber and the MLS for over two years now.
Mr. da Silva’s investment gives Orlando’s MLS bid a unique advantage, immediately gaining ties to one of the biggest soccer countries in the world, Brazil. More announcements will be made on specifics regarding the ties to Brazil in the upcoming weeks.
The existing ownership group, which includes President Phil Rawlins, will remain in place and continue to run day-to-day operations at Orlando City. Flavio Augusto joins Orlando’s current local ownership group, which includes amongst others, entrepreneur John Bonner and Morgan & Morgan’s Scott Bates.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
Annual motor sports spectacle is Central Florida’s largest stadium event of the year
The Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam makes its return to the Orlando area when the annual motor sports spectacle drives into the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.
Central Florida will heat up this January when 1,500 horsepower, 10,000-pound monster trucks compete in side-by-side racing and the fan-favorite freestyle competition where each monster truck gets up to 120 seconds to “wow” the crowd with huge jumps, wheelies, truck-spinning donuts, flips, and the destruction of cars, vans, buses, motor homes and more.
The Monster Jam is one of Orlando’s most popular and largest single day stadium events, attracting capacity crowds of over 60,000 fans. A huge field of sixteen monster trucks will compete in side-by-racing and the fan-favorite freestyle competition.
One of the many highlights of this year’s event is the 10th anniversary of the sport’s 10-time World Champion Maximum Destruction.
Four-time World Champion, Dennis Anderson, returns to his favorite city driving the legendary monster truck he created 31 years ago, GRAVE DIGGER.
After touring with his oldest son Adam in 2012, Dennis will bring another Anderson with him to Orlando in 2013 with the debut appearance of SON OF A DIGGER driven by Anderson’s middle son, Ryan Anderson.
The event will also feature 10-Time World Champion MAXIMUM DESTRUCTION celebrating the team’s 10th anniversary, plus the return of GRINDER, Latino favorite EL TORO LOCO, and more yet-to-be announced motorsports competitions.
Maximum Destruction
Monster Jam returns to Orlando with one show only on Saturday, January 26that the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, 1610 W. Church Street, Orlando, Florida, 32805. Gates Open at 5 pm. Opening Ceremonies at 6:30pm. Racing Starts at 7 pm.
Advance purchase SuperValue Tickets are ONLY $15. $35 VIP / $25 Sideline. However, tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets, the Amway Center Box Office, or charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. Tickets will also be available day of show at the Citrus Bowl.
All seats reserved. Subject to facility fee, plus convenience and handling charges. Don’t wait – buy tickets in advance as prices go up $5 more day of show. Get more show information at www.MonsterJam.com (click on “Tickets” and search for Orlando January 26th).
Fans can also save $15 with a Buy 3 Get 1 FREE 4-pak ticket voucher deal at area Metro PCS locations.
Grave Digger
There are also a ton of Preview Opportunities and Contests going on for Monster Jam!
Fans can go behind the scenes, meet the drivers for autographs and photo ops, and see themonster trucks up close at the World’s Ultimate Pit Party at Tinker Field from 2-5 pm. Purchase a pit pass for only $10 more when making your ticket purchase, or pick up a free pit pass at participating Orlando area Southern Ford Dealers beginning January 2nd. Pit Passes, along with a valid event ticket, get fans into the Pit Area.
Fans can also go for a ride in a real monster truck before the show by picking up a free Monster Truck Ride Pass at any Advance Auto Parts location from 1/7/13-1/25/13 while supplies last. Monster truck rides begin at 1 p.m. in the lot across from Gate D and run until 7 p.m. Valid only with a Saturday, January 26th event ticket.
Save $15 and get a FREE SuperValue Ticket with a Buy 3 Get 1 SuperValue Ticket
FREE Deal. Pick up your free 4-Pack Ticket Voucher from participating Orlando Area MetroPCS Locations from 1/7/13 through 1/25/13 while supplies last. See Voucher for details.
(ASR) 13th, Erik Manuel Lamela (Alessandro Florenzi)
(ASR) 31st, Miralem Pjanic (unassisted)
(ASR) 45th, Mattia Destro (unassisted)
(ASR) 66th, Alessandro Florienzi (unassisted)
Lineups:
Orlando City: Miguel Gallardo, Jerome Mechack, Alex DeJon, Kieron Bernard, Luke Boden, James O’Connor (Jordan LeBlanc 68’), Jean Alexandre (Ian Fuller 74’), Chris Harmon (Brian Fekete 46’), Jamie Watson (Jonathan Mendoza 57’), Dennis Chin (Christian Eissele 74’), Adama Mcengue
A.S. Roma: Michael Bradley (Simone Perrota 46), Leandro Castan, Erik Manuel Lamela, Miralem Pjanic, Daniele De Rossi (Panagiotis Tachtsidis 46’), Mattia Destro, Ivan Rodrigo Piris, Maarten Stekelenburg (Bogdan Lobont 46’), Jose Rodolfo Dodo (Marco Antonio De Mattos Filho 59’), Nicolas Andrea Burdisso (Alessio Romagnoli 46’), Alessandro Florenzi
Match Facts:
Time of match: 12:30 p.m.
Weather: Clear
Attendance: 700+
Orlando City Falls To A.S. Roma
Valuable experience gained for Lions in 5-0 loss to three-time Serie A Champions
Winter Park, Fla. – Orlando City kicked off the new year in style, playing a friendly against three-time Serie A champion A.S. Roma in the 2013 preseason opener. Despite the 5-0 scoreline, the Lions impressed the sellout crowd at Barker Family Stadium in Winter Park, Fla., keeping up with worldwide stars like Michael Bradley, Francesco Totti and Maarten Stekelenburg in a game that the team hopes to be a springboard to a successful 2013 season.
“It’s been a really good experience for everyone,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “It’s a huge eye-opener to what the next level of soccer is for everyone on the team.”
Roma, who trained at the Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney during their winter break, looked sharp against the 2012 USL PRO Regular Season champs. The Italian squad got started on the board early on, capitalizing on an early breakaway in the 2nd minute to take the 1-0 lead. Forward Erik Manuel Lamela notched a score after a well-directed pass by Miralem Pjanic hit the striker in stride, with the shot going up and over Orlando Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo and into the net.
Lamela wasn’t done with scoring in the first half as the Buenos Aires native gave Roma a two goal advantage in the 13th minute. In a scrum around the box, the forward once again found the back of the net, with help coming this time from Midfielder Alessandro Florenzi. Pjanic, who held the assist on the first goal, netted Roma’s third goal in the 31st minute while Mattia Destro added a fourth in the 45th to give the Italian side a 4-0 lead going into halftime.
The second half brought about many changes for both squads, giving each club a chance to look at players who normally don’t see the pitch. Youngsters Brian Fekete from the University of Tampa and Jonathan Mendoza from the U23 squad came on as substitutes for Orlando, gaining valuable experience for players Heath has an interest in for upcoming 2013 season. The same happened for Roma, who gave playing time to keeper Bogdan Lobont, Marco Antonio De Mattos Filho and Panagiotis Tachtsidis.
Roma continued their impressive style of play, with a score by Alessandro Florenzi in the 66th adding onto their lead. The score, however, was not a concern for Heath as his team played against one of the world’s best, with the experience more valuable than a victory in the friendly.
“The match was great for our younger players to see what top level competition is,” Heath said.
All ticket proceeds of the match went to the Orlando City Soccer Foundation. A 501 (c)(3) non-profit, the Foundation promotes exercise and healthy eating to the children and families in the Central Florida area and has done recent work in the Parramore area at the New Image Youth Center.
Orlando City takes a break from friendlies until early February, when the club participates in its third Disney Pro Soccer Classic. The Lions will play against Major League Soccer clubs like the Philadelphia Union, Toronto FC and the Columbus Crew before seeing their placement on championship day on February 23. All matches will be held at the Disney Wide World of Sports Complex in Kissimmee, Fla. For more information on the games, go to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs,visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
The Russell Athletic and Capital One Bowls bring thousands of visitors to explore the City Beautiful, and offer local fans a way to watch their favorite team or conference play.
Players from both teams have spent the week practicing, visiting the kids at Give Kids the World Village, exploring Walt Disney World, and getting ready for their final game of 2012 season.
Kick-off for the Scarlet Knights and Hokies is at 5:30 pm, and it is sure to be great game.
While this is the 15th time that Rutgers and Virginia Tech have faced each other, the Hokies lead the series 11-3, they haven’t met since the Hokies left the Big East in 2004.
Beamerball returns to Florida, as the Virginia Tech Hokies make their 10th Bowl appearance in the state and their first in the Russell Athletic Bowl. It has been a disappointing 6-6 season full of injuries, but Virginia Tech looks to win tonight to avoid their first losing season since 1992 and to take the focus off of the coaching staff questions and back on the team.
Meanwhile the Scarlet Knights have had quite a different season than the Hokies. Kyle Flood, in his first season as Head Coach at Rutgers, led them in a successful 9-3 season to their first Big East Championship. A win tonight against the Virginia Tech Hokies would give the Scarlet Knights their best season since 2006 with a 6th straight bowl win.
With both teams having offensive struggles and inconsistencies at times, this game is going to come down to how well the defenses will be able to perform. While the Hokie in me is hoping that they’ll be able to dig down deep to pull out a win, I am realistic about their chances against Rutgers whose defense ranks in the top 25 nationally in four major defensive statistical categories. I am sure that both teams will try to establish a strong running game to offset a weak offense, force turnovers from defenses that are proven scorers, and hope for special teams gold. It is going to be a close game that you won’t want to miss.
If you can’t make it to the Russell Athletic Bowl tonight, make sure you tune at 5:30 pm to ESPN and follow along on our adventure @onthegoinmco!
Italian giant to play in front of sellout at Barker Family Stadium in Winter Park, Fla.
Orlando City kicks off the 2013 season with an exhibition match against three-time Serie A Champion A.S. Roma on Wednesday, January 2, at Barker Family Stadium in Winter Park, Fla. The game, which was announced only a few weeks ago at City’s second annual fan forum, gives soccer fans in Central Florida a chance to see top-level talent play against their favorite hometown team.
“It’s obviously a fixture we’re incredibly looking forward to,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We realize we’re playing one of the biggest clubs in the world. We know it’s going to be extremely difficult, but we just want to give a good account of ourselves.”
Roma, who competes at the top of the Italian football league in Serie A competition, have won three Serie A championships with the most recent title coming in the 2000-01 season. The club participates in the same league as soccer-super giants like A.C. Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus. The team, which has USA national team star Michael Bradley on its squad, currently sits in 6th place in the Serie A table with a record of 10-2-6.
A.S. Roma recently agreed to a multiple-year sponsorship deal with Disney and their Wide World of Sports Complex in Kissimmee, Fla., with this the first trip to Orlando during their Winter break. Team officials agreed to hold a match before Roma’s flight later in the evening, with all ticket proceeds going toward the Orlando City Soccer Foundation. A 501 (c)(3) non-profit, the Foundation promotes exercise and healthy eating to the children and families in the Central Florida area and has done recent work in the Parramore area at the New Image Youth Center.
The Lions will be playing with a modified roster, fielding six-eight players from the 2012 regular season championship squad along with trialists brought on by Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath and Assistant Head Coach/Midfielder Ian Fuller. The preseason matches, Heath says, are a great opportunity to evaluate new talent.
“It’s given us an opportunity to invite one or two college graduates and see what they can do,” Heath said. “It’s something we can look forward to.”
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs,visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
ORLANDO CITY SOCCER ANNOUNCES TICKET PRICES FOR A.S. ROMA MATCH
Proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Orlando City Soccer Foundation
At last week’s Fan Forum, Orlando City SC announced a highly anticipated friendly against Italian club A.S. Roma on January 2, allowing fans to experience top-flight soccer during the off-season. The match will be held at the Cahill Sandspur Field and the Barker Family Stadium at Rollins College at 1000 Holt Avenue in Winter Park, with a 12:30 p.m. kickoff.
Today, the Lions announced tickets on sale, with prices ranging from $10 to $25, available solely on OrlandoCitySoccer.com. Seating is extremely limited, and fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. 100% of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to benefit the Orlando City Soccer Foundation.
“We are extremely proud to use this match as a platform to raise funds to benefit children in our community and further the sport of soccer, “ said Kay Rawlins, Director of Community Relations.
The Orlando City Soccer Foundation has recently held a series of soccer clinics with the New Image Youth Center on Parramore, also donating indestructible soccer balls to the children.
Roma announced a deal with ESPN Wide World of Sport Complex earlier in the year, making Central Florida their official winter training home. Team leaders also confirmed that the three-time Serie A champions will be bringing their “A” squad to Florida, making for an exciting matchup in Winter Park.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs,visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.
