Orlando City Soccer Club Archives - Page 3 of 8

Orlando City SC Still At The Top

Orlando City SC Secures Draw Against Rochester to Remain at the Top of the League

Defender Luke Boden provided the equalizer for the Lions midway through the second half

Orlando City SC Rochester 5 11 2014 — photo: Rochester Rhinos

Orlando City SC (6-0-3, 21 points) secured a crucial 1-1 draw against the Rochester Rhinos (2-1-4, 10 points) at Sahlen Stadium on Saturday night. After going down late in the first half, Defender Luke Boden provided the equalizer midway through the second half.

Heading into the match against Rochester, Head Coach Adrian Heath had to utilize his roster with the Lions playing exactly 24 hours earlier in. Prior to the two-game road trip, the English manager expressed his unhappiness with playing back-to-back to matches but stated that securing at least four points would suffice.

After coming away with a 3-1 win in Pennsylvania last night, City lacked imagination in the first half and seemed to be playing for a draw. Rochester would make things difficult for the Lions when they went ahead late in the first half.

Rochester took the lead in the 34^th minute when J.C. Banks cut inside and whipped a ball into the box for Tyler Rosenlund, who nodded it to the back-post leaving Carl Woszczynski with no chance.

Rochester Goalkeeper John McCarthy’s first save of the night came in the 54^th minute, when Sporting Kansas City loanee Mikey Lopez got onto the end of a cross from Corey Hertzog. The midfielder was unmarked at the back-post but struggled to put much on his header and McCarthy was able to make a comfortable save.

After struggling to create many clear-cut chances in the first half, Orlando looked much sharper in the opening portion of the second half and would eventually breakthrough in the 62^nd minute.

Defender Luke Boden pounced on the ball after a poor clearance from the Rhinos defense and tucked away his second goal of the season.

Heath made a few attacking changes to push for a winning goal, but Boden’s finish would prove to be the final goal of the match, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

City will now return back to Orlando to begin preparing for its second round Lamar Hunt Open Cup match against Premier Development League (PDL) side Ocala Stampede on Wednesday, May 14, at Seminole Soccer Complex.

The Lions will return back to league play when they travel west to take on Arizona United SC on Saturday, May 17.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com.

Orlando City SC Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 0 1 1

Rochester Rhinos 1 0 1

Scoring Summary

ROC- Tyler Rosenlund (J.C. Banks) 34’

ORL- Luke Boden (unassisted) 62’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC- GK Carl Woszcynski, D Bitielo Jean-Jacques (Tyler Turner 31’), Justin Clark, Brad Rusin, Luke Boden, M Aodhan Quinn, James O’Connor (Yordany Alvarez 80’), Adama Mbengue (Kevin Molino 46’), Mikey Lopez, Brian Span (Dennis Chin 75’) F Corey Hertzog

Rochester Rhinos- GK John McCarthy, D Kyle Hoffer, Onua Obasi, Pat McMahon, Tony Walls, M Tyler Rosenlund, Lance Rozeboom, Alex Sundly, F Alex Dixon, J.C. Banks, Johnny Mendoza

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Tyler Turner (unassisted) 64’

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team. The club will begin play in MLS in 2015, becoming the league’s 21^st club. The Lions’ first team has won two USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships and will continue play in USL PRO in 2014 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC Wins Again!

Orlando City SC Wins Fifth

Straight League Match

Lions defeat OKC 3-1, remain unbeaten in USL PRO

Continuing their winning ways, Orlando City SC (5-0-2, 17 points) defeated Oklahoma City Energy FC (2-4-0, 6 points) 3-1 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Sunday night. The win marks the fifth straight for City, as the Lions remain unbeaten in USL PRO.

Head Coach Adrian Heath was heavily critical of his side earlier this week, despite the Lions securing a 3-0 win over the Tampa Bay Rowdies of NASL in the opening match of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer.

Directly after the Rowdies match, the English manager stressed that the result wasn’t enough and demanded a better performance from his side.

Although City didn’t quite get off to the quick start that Heath would’ve liked, the Lions settled in nicely as the first half progressed.

“I’m pleased with the performance,” said Heath after the 3-1 win. “They’ve worked hard and responded to a lot of the things that we’ve been talking about. There are a few areas of our game that are still worrying me but I thought that we did more than enough to win the game.”

The majority of the first-half featured both sides exchanging opportunities, with neither side able to breakthrough until Orlando’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) signing Kevin Molino created two quality chances towards the end of the first-half.

In the 32^nd minute, Molino received the ball on the right-hand side and floated a lovely ball in the area to Dennis Chin, who out-jumped the OKC center-halves to nod the ball past his former teammate, Jon Kempin.

Chin’s finish was the final product of an efficient counter-attack, as City only needed three passes to find the back of the net.

Less than two minutes later, Molino would get free on the right side again, after a poor giveaway from the Energy, and played a driven ball across the six-yard box for former Real Salt Lake City Midfielder Yordany Alvarez who had a comfortable finish for the second goal of the match.

The consecutive assists puts the Trinidadian tally at four for the season, as the midfielder inches closer to the club record, which stands at seven in one season.

Despite the Lions’ strong play, OKC also managed to create dangerous chances themselves and came close to converting on multiple occasions.

The majority of the Energy’s looks at the City goal came from set-pieces that forced two tough saves from Gallardo and a goal-line clearance from Adama Mbengue.

However, OKC would pull one back in the 41^st minute when Philip Lund scored from 12 yards away. The goal was the result of a dangerous ball that was played into the box and redirected by Midfielder Steve Perry to Lund, who fired it passed Gallardo.

To begin the second half, Orlando City would find the score-sheet much more quickly when Chin outran the Energy defense to score his fourth goal in the past five USL PRO matches.

The speedy striker went on a forty yard run with the ball before slotting home the final goal of the match in the 47^th minute.

The Lions will now begin preparing for an upcoming two game road-trip, that includes back-to-back matches against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (5/9) and the Rochester Rhinos (5/10).

Both matches will be live streamed via the Riverhounds’ and Rhinos’ YouTube channels.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com.

Orlando City SC Match Recap

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 2 1 3

OKC Energy FC 1 0 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dennis Chin (Kevin Molino) 32’

ORL- Yordany Alvarez (Kevin Molino) 33’

OKC- Philip Lund (Steven Perry) 41’

ORL- Dennis Chin (unassisted) 47’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Tyler Turner (Bitielo Jean-Jacques 62’), Justin Clark, Brad Rusin, Luke Boden, M Yordany Alvarez, Darwin Ceren, Adama Mbengue, Kevin Molino (Mikey Lopez 88’), Brian Span (Anthony Pulis 70’) F Dennis Chin (Corey Hertzog 76’)

OKC Energy FC- GK Jonathan Kempin, D Kyle Miller, Kevin Ellis, Tark Morad, Gareth Evans, M Philip Lund (David Leichty 74’), Christian Duke (Nate Shiffman 74’), Michael Thomas, Adda Djeziri, Steven Perry (Adnan Gabeljic 63’), F Kyle Greig

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Tyler Turner (Yellow Card) 47’

OKC- Michael Thomas (Yellow Card) 65’

ORL- Anthony Pulis (Yellow Card) 86’

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: — Clear

Attendance: 4,532

Orlando City SC Continues Run

Orlando City SC Defeats OKC Energy FC 2-1, Continues Undefeated Run

Dennis Chin and Kevin Molino score, City remains in first place in USL PRO

Continuing its winning ways, Orlando City SC (4-0-2, 14 points) defeated expansion side OKC Energy FC (2-3-0, 6 points) 2-1 at Pribil Stadium on Saturday night. The victory puts City in control of first place in USL PRO, three points clear of LA Galaxy II.

Saturday night’s match marked Oklahoma City Energy FC’s inaugural home game, featuring a sell-out crowd. Despite the match being the first ever between the two sides, both Orlando and OKC share a connection, as the Energy is coached by former Sporting Kansas City Captain Jimmy Nielsen, who included former Orlando City players Jon Kempin and Kevin Ellis in the line-up.

City, on the other hand, was without two of its key players due to Rob Valentino suffering an injury earlier this week against FC Dallas and Darwin Ceren heading back to Orlando for personal matters.

As a result, the first 15 minutes featured a more direct approach from City, rather than their usual possession-oriented style, and OKC was arguably the better side.

Energy FC Midfielder Peabo Doue got in behind on two separate occasions, but a well-timed challenge from 18-year-old Defender Tyler Turner and a key save from veteran Miguel Gallardo kept the scoreline level.

The Lions’ first quality chance wouldn’t occur until the 23^rd minute when the club’s first MLS signing employed a bit of trickery to skip past OKC center-halves Gareth Evans and Mark Howard. The Trinidadian International then played a crafty ball to Chin who had his final effort saved by Kempin.

But, just one minute later Chin would redeem himself by finding the back of the net from a deep ball played by Yordany Alvarez.

After an initial save from Kempin, the striker pounced on the rebound and tucked away his second goal of the season.

With the early goal secured, City took control of the game and created a flurry of close chances in the final minutes of the first half.

The elements played a part in the match as both teams had to adjust to the windy conditions on hand.

City played with the wind in the first half but was forced to play against strong gusts in the second 45, making it difficult for the Lions to have any sort of aerial play.

Nevertheless, City would find their groove in the second half and attack relentlessly. In the 56^th minute, Molino scored his fourth goal of the season after intercepting a poor back pass from Mark Howard.

The finish puts Molino’s tally to four in as many games, with the midfielder leading the team in goals so far this season. In his three previous seasons with City, Molino has never scored more than two goals in each campaign.

Deep into stoppage time, OKC scored their first-ever home goal when substitute Stephen Perry was able to get on the scoresheet.

The Lions will now return back to Orlando and prepare for their home leg of the I-4 Derby, presented by United World Soccer. The match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30. Kick-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com

Orlando City SC Match Recap

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 1 1 2

OKC Energy FC 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dennis Chin (unassisted) 24’

ORL- Kevin Molino (unassisted) 56’

OKC- Stephen Perry (unassisted) 90’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Tyler Turner, Justin Clark, Brad Rusin, Luke Boden, M Yordany Alvarez, Anthony Pulis, Adama Mbengue, Kevin Molino (Mikey Lopez 85’), Brian Span F Dennis Chin (Corey Hertzog 70’)

OKC Energy FC- GK Jon Kempin, D Cyprian Hedrick, Gareth Evans, Kevin Ellis, Mark Howard (David Leichty 82’), Kyle Miller, M Michael Thomas, Nate Shiffman (Stephen Perry 46’), Peabo Doue (Phillip Lund 46’), F Adda Djeziri (Pete Caringi 57’), Kyle Greig

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Justin Clark (Yellow Card) 88’

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 8:00 p.m. EST

Weather: — Windy

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Accepting Ticket Deposits for 2015 MLS Season

Orlando City SC Launches Season Ticket Deposit Campaign for Inaugural MLS Season

$50 Deposit Ensures Fans’ Seat Priority as Season Ticket Members;

Lions to play 2015 season in Orlando Citrus Bowl

Orlando City SC announced today it will immediately begin accepting season ticket deposits for the 2015 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, allowing fans the opportunity to secure their place as part of the historic inaugural season. The $50 deposit per seat is fully refundable and will allow Season Ticket Members to secure their seating priority and also indicate preference of their seat location for 2015 in the newly reconstructed Orlando Citrus Bowl. Fans can claim their spot in history by placing a deposit at www.OrlandoCitySC.com or by calling 855-ORL-CITY.

As previously announced, current 2014 Orlando City Season Ticket Members will receive seating priority over newly placed deposits and are not required to place a deposit for 2015 Season Ticket Memberships unless there is an interest in adding seats to their account.

Fans placing deposits will have the opportunity to indicate their preferred ticket location among club, midfield, sideline, corner, end-line and supporters sections.

Season ticket prices and the seating configuration for the 2015 season are expected to be released early this summer following the finalization of the Orlando Citrus Bowl’s new seating configuration.

“In less than one year our community will be hosting Major League Soccer matches,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “We’re excited to offer our fans the ability to secure seats to experience our historic first MLS season.”

httpv://youtu.be/rXyCEoYkHsU

Due to delays in the City of Orlando’s acquisition of land required for the downtown, soccer-specific stadium, the Lions also announced they will play the entire 2015 MLS season in the Orlando Citrus Bowl. With more than $200 million spent on stadium reconstruction, the “new” Orlando Citrus Bowl will reopen as a world-class stadium and offer an enhanced fan experience at every ticket price level in 2015 featuring wider chair-back seating in select areas, new concession areas, and new club and premium spaces throughout the stadium.

Throughout the years, the Citrus Bowl has become a fortress for Orlando City fans and the 2015 season will provide the City faithful with a return to their original stomping ground. In just three seasons at the Citrus Bowl, the Lions generated unprecedented success while creating numerous fond memories, including a minor-league championship event attendance record of over 20,000 fans at the 2013 USL PRO championship match.

Beginning in 2016, the new downtown stadium will become the permanent home of Orlando City with its location one block west of the Amway Center. The natural grass playing surface will be surrounded by approximately 20,000 seats, providing an intimate and energetic atmosphere. Funding for the $80+ million stadium has already been secured from the Club, City of Orlando, Orange County, Seminole County and Osceola County.

“We remain hard at work alongside our partner the City of Orlando on all aspects of the project,” said Rawlins. “I am very confident saying that we remain fully on track to open our new stadium prior to the start of the 2016 MLS season and we will be announcing details for our new stadium ground breaking ceremony later this year.”

The Club recently announced that the 2016 stadium project is being guided by industry leading companies Populous, Barton Malow and Icon Venue Group.

All three companies have a wealth of experience in designing stadiums and are responsible for constructing many of the premier facilities in the world, such as Yankee Stadium, Amway Center, Wembley Stadium, 02 Arena and the Rose Bowl.

For more information or to establish yourself as a prestigious Orlando City Inaugural Season Ticket Member, please visit OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

About Orlando City SC:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s 21st expansion team, beginning play in 2015. The Lions’ first team has won two USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships and will continue play in USL PRO in 2014 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com andwww.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC Needs Your Input!

Orlando City SC Seeks Fan Input on Design of New Soccer Stadium

Idea the Result of Recent Supporter Group Suggestions to Architects; Group of Respondents will be selected to Participate in Small-Group Workshops with Stadium Design Team

Orlando City SC announced today a unique plan to solicit input and gather suggestions from its fans on the design of its new downtown stadium. The idea was born out of a recent meeting with Orlando City supporter group leaders and stadium architects.

“We recently invited the leaders of our supporter groups to meet with our stadium design team. During this conversation it became very apparent that our supporters had a lot of great ideas – and that we needed to find a mechanism to incorporate additional fan input into our stadium design,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “As a result, we’ve launched this new initiative to encourage all of our fans to send us their stadium design ideas.”

Fans are encouraged to send their stadium design ideas to stadiumideas@orlandocitysoccer.com or via Twitter using #NewOCSCStadium.

“If you have even a small idea that you think would be cool regarding Orlando City’s new stadium, this is how you can get our attention for it,” said Rawlins. “Orlando City’s goal is to create an iconic year-round development on Church Street that will serve as the top soccer stadium in MLS – and we’re excited to hear our fans’ ideas on how we can best accomplish this goal.”

In addition, upon review of fan submissions, the club will select a group of respondents to participate in small-group workshops with the stadium design team.

Fan input will continue to be solicited throughout the design process, and the club intends to also release a compilation of fan ideas collected in the coming weeks.

For more information, please visit OrlandoCitySC.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Wins First Match of 2014 Season

Lions continue unbeaten streak against Rochester Rhinos

Orlando City SC gained their first win of the 2014 USL PRO regular season on Saturday, April 5, with a 3-1 victory over the Rochester Rhinos. The win against the Rhinos continues the Lions’ unbeaten run against Rochester, as City have never lost to the upstate New York based club in three years (7-0-1).

“I’m pleased that we won the game and I’m pleased that we scored three goals, but I think that our performance could have been a bit better,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We had a bit of break when we needed it tonight, unlike last week.”

After only coming away with two 1-1 draws in their opening matches against Charleston and Pittsburgh, Head Coach Adrian Heath mentioned that City needed to score early to open the game up and prevent opposing teams from bunkering in.

On Saturday night, the gaffer got his wish when attacking midfielder Kevin Molino put the Lions up 1-0 in the third minute. The Trinidadian international began the match in cracking form and was active in the final third, creating chances for not only himself but also for his fellow attacking players.

Molino missed an early strike from inside the area in the 1^st minute, but would make up for it two minutes later with a comfortable finish from a Tyler Turner cross.

With the early goal secured, the Lions looked more relaxed and began playing vintage Orlando City football.

The three attacking midfielders, da Luz, Molino and Ceren were popping in and out of the free space in Rochester’s defensive third, and the holding midfielders, Quinn and Alvarez, continuously made themselves available when the front three ran into trouble.

Meanwhile the backline looked equally impressive, as Orlando were fervent in their efforts to press the Rhinos high up the pitch and force them to clear it away.

However, despite not maintaining much possession, Rochester nearly equalized when Midfielder Minh Vu came close to capitalizing on a defensive error from Orlando. Luckily for the Lions, Vu tapped his strike just wide of the target.

Vu’s chance was the only clear-cut opportunity for the visitors in the opening half.

Orlando, on the other hand, managed to create several in the first period. With da Luz and Molino drifting further inside, Defenders Luke Boden and Tyler Turner found more space on the wings and were able to drive low crosses to the near-post.

After coming close to scoring on several occasions, including a chance from Hertzog that ricocheted off the post, Valentino scored the second goal of the game for Orlando.

Valentino scored six goals for the Lions in 2013 and added another to his career while wearing purple and white by calmly re-directing a well-placed cross from Alvarez.

With the momentum in their favor, Orlando came close to scoring a minute later when Hertzog had a one-on-one with Goalkeeper Luis Soffner, but the former Whitecaps striker hit his final strike directly at the ‘keeper.

Orlando City looked even more confident to begin the second half, but an early mistake from rookie Aodhan Quinn gave the visitors a bit of life.

Quinn attempted to play a back pass to Rusin but, instead, ending up splitting the two center-halves, and Rochester Midfielder JC Banks was able to run on to it and place it past Gallardo.

Two of three goals allowed by Orlando this year have come from their own mistakes, and City’s confident play became a bit more cautious. But in the 72^nd minute, Heath made a tactical change and brought on attacking players Adama Mbengue and Dennis Chin.

Within minutes, Heath’s substitution would yield dividends when Chin scored a tap-in from six yards out in the 76^th minute. The goal marked the first in 2014 for the Lions’ all-time leading scorer.

The remaining 14 minutes featured professional football from City as they maintained possession and didn’t allow Rochester to take advantage of any mistakes.

Next week, Orlando will host the Charleston Battery on Saturday, April 12, before venturing on a two-game road trip against F.C. Dallas and OKC Energy.

For more information, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Orlando City SC Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 2 1 3

Rochester Rhinos 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Kevin Molino (Tyler Turner) 3’

ORL- Rob Valentino (Yordany Alvarez) 35’

ROC- JC Banks (unassisted) 53’

ORL- Dennis Chin (Kevin Molino) 76’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC-GK Miguel Gallardo, D Tyler Turner, Rob Valentino, Brad Rusin, Luke Boden, M Aodhan Quinn (Mikey Lopez), Yordany Alvarez, Darwin Ceren, Kevin Molino, Austin da Luz (Adama Mbengue 71’), Hertzog (Dennis Chin 71’)

Rochester Rhinos- GK Luis Soffner, D Ayao Sossou (Tony Walls 53’), Kyle Hoffer (Patrick McMahon 77’), Patrick Slogic, Babacar Diallo, Minh Vu (Samuel Petrone 76’), Lance Rozeboom, Tyler Rosenlund, Alex Dixon (Jonathan Mendoza 64’), JC Banks, Colin Rolfe (Ohua Obasi 76’)

Penalty Summary:

ROC- Kyle Hoffer (Yellow Card) 17’

ORL- Luke Boden (Yellow Card) 54’

ORL- Tyler Turner (Yellow Card) 68’

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: — Clear

About Orlando City SC:

Orlando City SC And Tampa Bay Rowdies I-4 Derby Returns

Orlando City SC and Tampa Bay Rowdies Announce Return of I-4 Derby

Home Leg of I-4 Derby Included in Orlando City Season-Ticket Package

Orlando City SC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies announced today the return of the I-4 Derby friendly matches, beginning in April 2014. The first match of the derby will take place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Wednesday, April 30, with the second leg occurring in St. Petersburg at Al Lang Stadium on Sunday, July 6.

For OCSC fans, the home leg of the I-4 Derby will be included in this year’s Orlando City season-ticket package. For non-season ticket holders, single game tickets will feature the same pricing as regular season matches- with tickets starting at just $19.

“We’re delighted to be playing the Rowdies again this year,” said President Phil Rawlins. “Derby matches are great for the sport and for our fans, so we’re looking forward to two great matches again this year.”

The I-4 Derby was agreed upon by both sides last year after continuous fan suggestion from the two clubs’ supporter groups.

After a win against the Rowdies in the Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic, Orlando carried that momentum over into the 2013 derby matches and captured two 3-2 victories.

Both matches at the Florida Citrus Bowl and Al Lang Stadium featured an incredible atmosphere, as each team’s supporter groups travelled to the opposing side’s venue to represent not only their team but also their city.

“We definitely enjoy the chance to play against a nearby club,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “They’re a good side and they’ve made some moves this off-season, but we’ll definitely be up for the game because we know how much it means to the fans.”

Since then, City has gone on to win their second USL PRO post-season championship and has been active in comprising a talented roster for not only 2014 but also for their inaugural Major League Soccer (MLS) campaign in 2015.

During 2013, the Rowdies finished third in the North American Soccer League (NASL) fall tables (5-5-4) after winning the NASL Soccer Bowl in 2012. A key highlight for the Tampa Bay based club in 2013 was a 1-0 defeat over the Seattle Sounders of MLS in the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Tickets for the first leg in Orlando will be available for purchase on Friday, April 4, at 10 a.m. via TicketMaster.com. Tickets for the away leg in Tampa will go on sale at a later date and will be available for purchase viawww.rowdiessoccer.com.

Orlando City season-ticket holders will receive their tickets in advance of the home leg.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Draws in Home Opener

Orlando City SC Lions Draw Riverhounds in Final USL PRO Home Opener

Orlando City SC march 29 2014 — Photo: Allison Petro

City draw back-to-back matches after conceding in second half

Orlando City SC opened their final US PRO season at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Saturday with a draw to the Pittsburg Riverhounds.

It is awesome to have the Lions playing at ESPN WWOS!

Here is more information about the game! Go City!

Orlando City SC drew the Pittsburgh Riverhounds 1-1 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Saturday, March 29. Defender Luke Boden provided the equalizer in the 58^th minute as City drew their second consecutive match in the early stages of their final USL PRO campaign.

“I have a lot of confidence in this group, despite the result,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We scored a lot of goals in the past three years and I guarantee that we’ll score more goals this year.”

In their first home game at ESPN WWOS, City began in typical fashion, controlling the pace of the game in the early stages. The Lions entertained large amounts of possession in midfield and the final third, but were also equally impressive in defence, allowing Pittsburgh very little time on the ball.

City’s cohesive high-pressure defending forced the Riverhounds to employ route one tactics and knock the ball long, rather than allowing them any threatening build-up play through the middle of the park.

On the other hand, Orlando’s midfielders were in complete control in the first 45, leading to several quality opportunities for the hosts. Orlando’s first MLS signee, Kevin Molino, provided the first chance for the Lions when he curled a dangerous effort that went just past the post.

Following Molino’s effort, Hertzog also added two close chances that kept visiting Goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap on his toes. Left and right fullbacks, Luke Boden and U.S. international Tyler Turner, also got involved in the attack and provided multiple crosses to the near-post for Hertzog from deep inside Pittsburgh’s half.

Luckily for Gilstrap, the Riverhounds’ defense did well to make several last minute clearances and prevent Hertzog from earning his first goal in purple and white.

On the other end, Pittsburgh’s few chances came primarily from set pieces as Orlando’s organized defending made it difficult for them to gain a real grip on the match. The visiting’s side’s best chance of the half came when lethal striker Jose Angulo almost nodded home a chance in the 27^th minute, but saw it skip off the cross-bar.

Valentino and Rusin managed Angulo quite capably in the first period, but the poaching striker, who scored a team-high 13 goals last season, was able to break through in the second half. In the 48^th minute, City fans argued for a foul as Angulo knocked Valentino to the ground and skipped past Gallardo to put the visitors up 1-0.

Nevertheless, City would continue to dominate the run of play and would fight back to level the score-line.

After progressing their way down the pitch, Orlando earned a corner in the 58^th minute, which led to a cracking finish from Boden. Gilstrap was able to punch away Molino’s initial cross, but the former Sheffield Wednesdaydefender was left all alone inside the area and controlled the ball well before volleying a powerful strike into the top-corner.

Adding to Pittsburgh’s woes, Gilstrap was also injured during the set-piece and reserve ‘keeper Greg Blum was brought in for relief, giving City more of a reason to fire away at the target. In light of the Lions’ equalizer, Pittsburgh began to show a bit of attacking life but Orlando regained their first-half form and re-took control of the game.

In the waning moments of the match, Head Coach Adrian Heath also brought on Forward Dennis Chin for Aodhan Quinn and moved Ceren alongside Alvarez, providing attacking flare and defensive support simultaneously as Orlando kept probing for the winner.

In the 83^rd minute, Chin came close to providing the second goal for City but his header went just wide of the post. With time ticking away, the Lions’ chances of gaining three points were beginning to look slim until the fourth official announced seven minutes of stoppage time.

As Pittsburgh bunkered in, Orlando continued pushing forward with multiple attacking players but key saves by Blum maintained a 1-1 score through 90 minutes. The draw against Pittsburgh marks the second consecutive match in which the Lions have conceded early before battling back to earn a point.

Orlando City will continue their home stretch, when they take on the Rochester Rhinos at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

Team 1    2    Final

Orlando City SC 0    1    1

Pittsburgh Riverhounds 0    1    1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Luke Boden (unassisted) 58’

PIT- Jose Angulo (unassisted) 48’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Rob Valentino, Bradford Rusin, Luke Boden, Tyler Turner, M Yordany Alvarez, Aodhan Quinn (Dennis Chin 76’), Austin da Luz (Adama Mbengue 72’), Kevin Molino, Darwin Ceren, Corey Hertzog

Pittsburgh Riverhound- GK Hunter Gilstrap (Greg Blum 62’), D Brian Fekete, Sterling Flunder, Andrew Marshall, Anthony Arena, Rob Vincent, Danny Earls, Matt Dallman (Brian Salazar 85’), Anthony Oboda (Mike Green 80’), Jason Johnson, Jose Angulo (Alfonso Motagalvan 89’)

Penalty Summary:

PIT- Andrew Marshall (Yellow Card) 33’

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: — Clear

For more information, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com

About Orlando City SC:

Orlando City SC Home Opener At ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex Saturday

Orlando City SC to Play Final USL PRO Home Opener on Saturday

Kick-off set for 7:30 p.m. at ESPN Wide World of Sports

Orlando City SC kicks off their final USL PRO home opener at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, as they welcome the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, March 29. The match will kick-off at 7:30 p.m.

“We’re delighted to play in-front of our fans this weekend and we’ll be looking to come out of the gate strong,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath on the home-opener. “Pittsburgh is a good side and we know that we have a bigger target on our backs this year, but we’ll be up for it.”

The WWOS complex will serve as a temporary one-year home for the Lions and has increased capacity to allow approximately 5,500 fans to attend City’s home matches this season.

After starting the season on the road in South Carolina with a 1-1 draw against the Battery, the Lions will look for their first win of the season. Newly signed Midfielder Austin da Luz looked sharp in his debut with Orlando, recording the team’s first goal of the 2014 campaign.

“The fans that made the trip to Charleston were unbelievable,” da Luz said ahead of Saturday’s matchup with Pittsburgh. “I can’t imagine what the home opener is going to be like. I think it’s going to be a great opportunity for us to get our first win.”

Defender Rob Valentino should be ready to go for the home opener this weekend. Valentino and Rusin looked to be a formidable partnership during the Pro Soccer Classic, as the Lions only conceded two goals in the two games Valentino and Rusin played together.

However, during the off-season Pittsburgh added even more attacking firepower to their core lineup and will provide a solid test for the City backline. After resigning lethal Striker Jose Angulo, who recorded 13 goals last season, the Riverhounds also added former Fulham and Chicago Fire Forward Collins John. Pittsburgh’s squad also includes three loanees from MLS affiliate Houston Dynamo.

During the 2013 season the Lions went 1-1-1 against the Riverhounds, but defeated them in the USL PRO quarterfinals en route to City’s third USL PRO Championship.

About Orlando City SC:

Orlando City SC Triple Signing Adds Depth for 2014 Season

Lions Sign Justin Clark, Rafael Diaz and Aodhan Quinn

New additions will provide depth for Orlando City in 2014

With the 2014 USL PRO Season starting soon, Orlando City SC has a pending triple signing that could mean depth for the team roster.

Check out the signing information below and #GoCity!

Orlando City SC announced on Wednesday the signing of Defender Justin Clark, Goalkeeper Rafael Diaz and Midfielder Aodhan Quinn for the 2014 USL PRO season, pending USSF approval. The three new additions will provide depth for Head Coach Adrian Heath’s roster.

Clark is set to rejoin the Lions after playing for Orlando last season, making 5 appearances during the 2013 campaign. With a year of professional experience under his belt, the athletic center-back will provide reassurance for veterans Rob Valentino and Brad Rusin.

Prior to joining Orlando City, Clark had a prolific career at local university, Rollins College. During his time as a Tar, the Atlanta, Ga. native was awarded the 2011 SSC of the Year award, named to the All-Sunshine State Conference team, named to the NSCAA All-South Region team, and also earned Third-Team All-America honors all during his senior year.

Both Diaz and Quinn are joining the Lions fresh off their college careers.

Diaz was a four-year starter at St. Johns University and has a tremendous wingspan that allows him to make difficult saves. While playing for the Red Storm Diaz set the all-time school-record with 32 shutouts, while being a three-time All-BIG EAST selection and a two-time NSCAA All-Northeast Region honoree. Diaz is also a former member of the U18 U.S. Men’s National team.

Quinn joins the Lions after capping off a stellar career at the University of Akron. Earlier this year, Quinn was selected by the Philadelphia Union in the third round (52^nd overall) of the MLS SuperDraft. Known as a crafty midfielder, Quinn recorded 14 goals and 14 assists during his three years at Akron.

Transaction: Orlando City SC signs Defender Justin Clark, Goalkeeper Rafael Diaz, and Midfielder Aodhan Quinn

Name: Justin Clark | Rafael Diaz | Aodhan Quinn

Position: Defense | Goalkeeper | Midfielder

Height: 6’1 | 6’0 | 6’0

Weight: 170 | 160 | 155

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Signs Thomas Redding

Orlando City SC Signs Thomas Redding as First MLS Homegrown Player

17-year-old U.S. Youth National Team Member hails from Oviedo, Fla.

Orlando City SC announced on Wednesday afternoon the signing of Oviedo, Fla., native Thomas Redding to a multi-year deal. At only 17 years old, Redding is the club’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) homegrown signing and is the youngest player on the roster.

“From the beginning, we’ve made no secret that the youth development aspect of our club is very important to us,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath on Redding’s signing. “Tommy has a lot of upside and is highly regarded by many in the soccer world, so we’re very pleased that he’s decided to begin his professional career with us.”

MLS’ homegrown player initiative was implemented in 2008 to allow young future professional players, located in MLS markets, to represent their hometown team. Despite being courted in the last year by premier professional clubs in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and England, Redding ultimately decided to start his professional career by representing the city in which he grew up playing youth soccer.

With the completion of the signing, the youngster is now eligible to play for the first team during the 2014 USL PRO campaign prior to the club entering MLS in 2015.

“I’m not surprised that the interest was there because he ticks a lot of the boxes that you look for in a modern-day central defender,” stated Heath. “He has a lot of potential and upside, and we’re very pleased that he has committed to us.”

Known as a quick and athletic defender, Redding is one of the elite players in the country for his age and has the ability to play multiple positions, according to Heath. The 6-foot-2 center-back is a current member of the U18 U.S. Men’s National Team, along with Orlando’s previous signing Tyler Turner, and made headlines after several impressive performances last year during FIFA U17 World Cup qualifying matches.

“We believe in our youth program and we believe in giving youngsters a chance,” added Heath. “We have two young players in our first team squad now, and hopefully they’re they first of many more.”

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Finishes Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic in Third Place

Orlando City Finishes Pro Soccer Classic in Third Place

After a draw in regulation, both sides forgo routine penalty-kicks

In the Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic third place match, Orlando City SC drew the New York Red Bulls 4-4 on Saturday, March 1, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. With Orlando and New York electing to forgo a decision by penalty kicks, both sides will finish the Pro Soccer Classic in third place.

“Despite allowing two or three poor goals, there were a lot of pleasing moments for us, especially going forward,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath after the match. “As their coaches just said, we’re difficult to contain with the way we move the ball.”

After controlling possession early in the match, a miscommunication in the New York defense would provide a golden opportunity for new signing Corey Hertzog. Going against the club who drafted him in 2011, Hertzog was in pursuit of a long-floated ball from Darwin Ceren.

Ceren’s ball seemed to be an easy clearance for the Red Bulls defense, but Defender Kosuke Kimura accidentally headed it past Goalkeeper Luis Robles who was on his way to clear the danger away. Hertzog was lurking in the area and slotted it home to give Orlando a 1-0 lead.

In light of Hertzog’s early goal, Orlando would get into their rhythm, and Molino and Hertzog would create a few opportunities that kept Robles honest.

On the other end, the 2013 Supporter Shield winners weren’t shy of going forward either and showed why they were one of the best sides in MLS last year. In response to a cracking effort from Molino that hit the cross-bar, New York progressed their way down the pitch and equalized the match in the 28^th minute.

After receiving the ball on the right-hand-side, Midfielder Lloyd Sam whipped in a driven cross to the near-post and Bradley Wright-Phillips was there to place it past Gallardo.

The equalizer from New York was arguably a fair reflection of the first-half, as neither side was ever in full-control of the game. Nevertheless, despite not having as much time on the ball in comparison to the matches in the group-stages, Orlando still looked dangerous in spurts.

Midfielder Darwin Ceren has quickly become a fan-favorite for his contributions on the pitch, and was a key facilitator in City’s attacking plays. As a result, Orlando would create the best chance of the match, in the 43^rd minute, after several probing efforts.

After good build-up play on the left-hand side, City worked the ball across the edge of the area to Yordany Alvarez who hit a powerful volley that forced Robles to push it over the bar and into the supporters section.

The play leading up to Alvarez’s effort was almost an identical replication of Darwin Ceren’s first goal for the Lions against Columbus Crew.

Orlando City Soccer Disney PSC 2014 Orlando City SC — Photo: Alison Petro

To begin the second half, Heath brought on Dennis Chin for Hertzog as his only change during the intermission.

Within two minutes of entering the game, the Chin would score his second goal of the preseason. After Molino earned a corner, Alvarez whipped the ball to the near-post for Chin who nodded it past Robles Robles.

However, Orlando had very little time to celebrate as Wright-Phillips tapped home his second goal of the game in the 50^th minute. Wright-Phillips, the brother of former England-international Sean Wright-Phillips, used his pace to get in behind the Orlando defense on several occasions but Gallardo maintained his excellent form with notable key saves.

But in the 68^th minute, New York would get the better of the Mexican goalkeeper when Ibrahim Sekagaya scored a tap in. Gallardo made a quality save on the initial free-kick from Orlando-native Dax McCarty, but Sekagya was there to tuck it away after City failed to clear it away.

In the ensuing moments after Sekagya’s goal, Orlando would not lose their fighting spirit and Adama Mbengue, who came on as a substitute in the 57^th minute, provided an equalizer in 76^th minute.

Stemming from another Yordany Alvarez corner-kick, Mbengue blasted a screamer from the edge of the area that flew into the top-corner.

Nevertheless, Midfielder Jonny Steele would respond with the Red Bull’s fourth goal of the match, only two minutes later.

Steele’s goal marks the second consecutive game in which Orlando has allowed four goals. However, similar to the Columbus match, City would respond and level the game at four goals apiece.

Orlando’s goal occurred after beautiful build-up play in the midfield that allowed Mbengue to release Molino in behind. The Trinidadian quickly latched on to the ball and dinked it by Robles.

“We played a pretty good New York side tonight and I think we made a good account for ourselves by finishing the tournament unbeaten,” added Heath.

With neither side being able to break the dead-lock in regulation, the match would finish as a 4-4 draw. After the final whistle, both clubs opted to forgo the routine penalty-kicks and conclude the Pro Soccer Classic with a tie for third place.

Orlando City’s next preseason match will take place on March 8 against Florida International University (FIU). Kick-off is set for 3 p.m., and the match will occur at Seminole Soccer Complex.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com

Orlando City Soccer Club Match Recap

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City SC 1 3 4

New York Red Bulls 1 3 4

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Corey Hertzog (unassisted) 7’

NY- Bradley Wright-Phillips (Lloyd Sam) 28’

ORL- Dennis Chin (Yordany Alvarez) 47’

NY- Bradley Wright-Phillips (Jonny Steele) 50’

NY- Ibrahim Sekagya (Unassisted) 68’

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Unassisted) 76’

NY- Jonny Steele (Peguy Luyindula) 78’

ORL- Kevin Molino (Adama Mbengue) 85’

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City SC- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Mason Trafford (Trial), Rob Valentino, Luke Boden, Tyler Turner (Jordan Cyrus trial 48’), M James O’Connor (Anthony Pulis 57’), Yordany Alvarez, Austin Da Luz (Adama Mbengue 57’), Darwin Ceren, Kevin Molino, Corey Hertzog (Dennis Chin 46’)

New York Red Bulls- GK Luis Robles, D Ibrahim Sekagya, Armando, Kosuke Kimura, Chris Duvall, M Lloyd Sam, Jonny Steele, Dax McCarty, Eric Alexander, F Peguy Luyindala, Bradley Wright-Phillips

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 6:00 p.m. EST

Weather: — Clear

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Preseason Friendly Series

Orlando City SC Announces

Preseason Friendly Series

Lions to play Chicago Fire on Feb. 11 at IMG Academy in Bradenton; college friendly series part of 2014 preseason

Orlando City SC announced Wednesday the club’s 2014 preseason schedule, featuring a match against Major League Soccer (MLS) Chicago Fire on Tuesday, February 11 at IMG Academy in Brandenton, Fla. A series of collegiate friendlies across Central Florida will also take place, leading up to the 2014 USL PRO season.

The collegiate section of the schedule includes matches against Florida International University, Stetson University, Rollins College and the University of South Florida. Fans are welcome to attend friendlies throughout the preseason.

Orlando City will also be participating in the annual Disney Pro Soccer Classic held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. The Pro Soccer Classic begins on Wednesday, February 19, and runs through Saturday, March 1. The Lions will face such prominent MLS sides as the Philadelphia Union (February 19), Toronto FC (February 22) and the Columbus Crew (February 26).

Season ticket holders will be able to claim a special discount for all Disney Pro Soccer Classic matches by calling (855) ORL-CITY. 2014 season tickets are still available to the general public but are going fast. Fans can call the same number for more information.

Orlando City SC Friendlies Schedule:

Date	Time	Opponent	Admission		Parking	Location
February 11	7 p.m.	Chicago Fire (MLS)	Starts at $9 for children, and $13 for adults		Available around soccer facility	5500 34^th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34210
February 19	6 p.m.	Philadelphia Union (MLS)*	Single session tickets start at $20*		Available at ESPN Wide World of Sports	700 S. Victory Way Kissimmee, FL 34747
February 22	8 p.m.	Toronto FC (MLS)*	Single session tickets start at $20*		Available at ESPN Wide World of Sports	700 S. Victory Way Kissimmee, FL 34747
February 26	6 p.m.	Columbus Crew (MLS)*	Single session tickets start at $20*		Available at ESPN Wide World of Sports	700 S. Victory Way Kissimmee, FL 34747
March 1	TBD	TBD (PSC Championship Game)*	Single session tickets start at $20*		Available at ESPN Wide World of Sports	700 S. Victory Way Kissimmee, FL 34747
March 8	3 p.m.	FIU	Free		Available at Seminole Soccer Complex	1900 Seminole Soccer Loop Sanford, FL 32771
March 12	7 p.m.	Stetson	Free		Available at Seminole Soccer Complex	1900 Seminole Soccer Loop Sanford, FL 32771
March 15	7 p.m.	Rollins		Free	Available at Seminole Soccer Complex	1900 Seminole Soccer Loop Sanford, FL 32771
April 1	7 p.m.	@USF (Corbett Soccer Stadium)		TBD	Available around Corbett Soccer Stadium	Elm Dr, Tampa, FL 33617

*= Disney Pro Soccer Classic

**=Single session guarantees entry into two Disney Pro Soccer Classic matches

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Returns For Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic

Orlando City and Defending Champion Montreal Impact Return for Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic

Lions and Impact among first to commit to the February soccer event at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex; Additional teams expected to be announced soon

Major League Soccer’s Montreal Impact and local favorite Orlando City Soccer Club will compete in the Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex this spring. Additional teams will be announced in the next several weeks.

Montreal, which returns for its third straight appearance in the tournament (Feb. 19 – Mar. 1), is back to defend the Disney Pro Soccer Classic title it won over the Columbus Crew a year ago when it blazed through the event undefeated. Montreal is led by Marco Di Vaio, who was third in the league in goals scored last year with 20.

In just three USL-Pro seasons, the Orlando City Lions have won two regular-season titles and two postseason championships, including last year’s championship. This will be the club’s fourth straight appearance in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, which will sort of be home games for the Lions because they will play their final USL-Pro season home games at ESPN Wide World of Sports this spring before joining the MLS in 2015.

httpv://youtu.be/lAfeGo3Rl08

“We are delighted to once again be competing in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic,’’ said Phil Rawlins, president of Orlando City Soccer Club. “Over the past three years, the Disney Pro Soccer Classic has proved invaluable in giving us game time against the very best teams in North America and preparing our players for the season ahead.”

“We’re excited to have two marquee teams to be among the first to participate in the Pro Soccer Classic. We fully expect this to be the best field in the Pro Soccer Classic’s history. This tournament further shows we are committed to the sport of soccer and now recognized as one of the top training and competition facilities in the world,” said Mike Millay, Director of Sports Development at ESPN Wide World of Sports.

Entering its fifth year, the Disney Pro Soccer Classic is designed to boost interest in soccer throughout Central Florida and establish the area as a prime training and competition destination for pro soccer clubs. Last year, the event at Disney attracted fans from across the U.S. and Canada and gave them a unique opportunity for an intimate fan experience at a world-class facility.

The tournament is just one of more than a dozen popular soccer events held annually at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which is the leading multi-sports venue in the nation and the official preseason training home of the AS Roma soccer club.

For more information on the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, visit http://espnwwos.disney.go.com. Travel packages are available through GetTravel.com. The packages may include accommodations near Walt Disney World Resort, game tickets, ground transportation, and discounted Disney theme park tickets.

About ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which hosts more than 350 events a year, is the leading multi-sport venue for amateur and professional sports in the nation, accommodating 70 different sports and athletes from more than 70 countries. Designed to take youth sports to the next level, the 230-acre facility features multiple competition venues, including Champion Stadium, the HP Field House, the Jostens Center, the Hess Sports Fields, a track & field facility, a tennis complex and a baseball/softball sportsplex. It is also home to the ESPN Innovation Lab, a real-world testing ground for the ESPN Emerging Technology Group that develops ground-breaking on-air products like Ball Track and ESPN Snap Zoom. In addition, the complex features 56 high-definition cameras and 40 high-definition video screens, including three jumbo screens, which can capture and display footage from any event taking place at the complex. The camera and video screens, as well as a 20-zone audio system, are controlled through the state-of-the-art HD production center with direct links to ESPN facilities in Bristol, Conn., New York and Los Angeles. For more information, visitwww.disneysportsnews.com for press releases, photos and videos. Follow us on Twitter at @DisneySports and on Facebook.

Orlando City To Be Major League Soccer’s 21st Club

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER AWARDS EXPANSION TEAM TO ORLANDO
MLS’ 21^st Team Will Debut in 2015 as League Expands to the Southeast

ORLANDO (November 19, 2013) – One of the fastest-growing, top 20 metropolitan areas in the United States will soon be the home of Major League Soccer’s 21^st club, as MLS Commissioner Don Garber and expansion team owners Flávio Augusto da Silva and Phil Rawlins announced tonight that Orlando will join the league in 2015.  Orlando’s new MLS team, Orlando City Soccer Club, will join as an expansion team for the league’s 20^th season.

With the addition of Orlando, MLS has added 11 clubs since the beginning of the 2005 season, leading to a remarkable and rapid transformation of professional soccer in North America. Three more expansion teams will be added by 2020.

“We are proud and excited to welcome Orlando to Major League Soccer,” Commissioner Garber said. “From the success of the Orlando City Soccer Club, to the incredible fan support and passion in the community, this is a new market that really excites us. We have great confidence in Flávio Augusto da Silva, Phil Rawlins and the rest of the Orlando City ownership group.   They love this sport, our League and this city. And thanks to the commitment of ownership, the City of Orlando and Orange County, Orlando City will soon have a spectacular new stadium that will provide fans and the entire community with a truly unique downtown sporting experience.”

One of the world’s top tourism destinations with more than 57 million visitors annually, metropolitan Orlando is the 19^th largest market in the United States and features a diverse, young and vibrant community.  The Orlando area’s Hispanic population has more than doubled since 2000, making it the nation’s fourth fastest-growing Latino market.

Orlando City’s inaugural season will see the club open its own soccer stadium in downtown Orlando. The brand new stadium will be located on Church Street, in a vibrant section of Orlando’s entertainment district. The new stadium will be accessible by both car and public transportation, with its construction scheduled to begin in spring of 2014. Prior to moving into the new stadium in the summer of 2015, Orlando City will play matches at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.

During the past year, Orlando has hosted several major soccer events, including the USL PRO championship match in September, which drew a USL-record crowd of 20,886 fans to the Citrus Bowl. More recently, the U.S. and Brazil match on November 10 at the Citrus Bowl drew the largest home crowd in nearly 10 years for the U.S. women’s national team. In addition, Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, where Orlando City will play the 2014 USL PRO season, has served as host to MLS preseason training and many elite international clubs.

Da Silva, a native of Brazil, leads Orlando City’s ownership group, which includes club Founder and President Phil Rawlins, Chairman John Bonner and 10 local partners.  Da Silva previously owned Wise Up, a group of more than 400 language schools operating in five countries, and currently owns Geração de Valor (Valuable Generation), a company dedicated to developing young entrepreneurs.  He is the former chairman of Ometz Group, an organization consisting of 16 holding companies, including Wise Up.

“Orlando is a special city with amazing fans that have embraced the beautiful game and we have no doubt that Orlando City will become the next success story in MLS,” said Da Silva. “We would like to thank MLS leadership for working with us and helping us bring Major League Soccer to Central Florida. Our goal is to continue the championship-winning ways this organization has established and to further the special relationship that this club has with its fans and the city of Orlando.”

Originally from the United Kingdom and a part-owner of English Premier League club Stoke City, Rawlins founded and developed a highly successful information technology sales and marketing consulting company. He founded the Austin Aztex, a USL PRO team, in 2007, before moving the team to Orlando in late 2010.

“It is a dream come true to bring Major League Soccer to Orlando,” said Rawlins. “The fans in Orlando have clearly demonstrated that they are ready for MLS, and we look forward to celebrating with them and working together to set a new standard in this country. We have watched the evolution of Major League Soccer, and we are thrilled to join what has become one of the fastest growing and most exciting leagues in the world.”

Individuals who purchase 2014 Orlando City season tickets will have top priority for the club’s 2015 MLS season seat selection. Call (855) ORL-CITY or visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com for details.

Details regarding conference alignment and schedule format for future MLS seasons will be unveiled at a later date.

About Major League Soccer

Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. MLS features many stars from the U.S., Canada, and around the world. Major League Soccer’s 18^th season featured 19 clubs each playing 34 regular-season matches. Those clubs include the Chicago Fire; Chivas USA; Colorado Rapids; Columbus Crew; D.C. United; FC Dallas; Houston Dynamo; 2012 MLS Cup champion LA Galaxy; Montreal Impact; New York Red Bulls; New England Revolution; Philadelphia Union; Portland Timbers; Real Salt Lake; San Jose Earthquakes; Seattle Sounders FC; Sporting Kansas City; Toronto FC and Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Expansion teams New York City FC and Orlando City Soccer Club will begin play in 2015. MLS Cup 2013 will be played December 7, 2013. For more information about MLS, log on to the league’s official website at www.MLSsoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team. The club will begin play in MLS in 2015, becoming the league’s 21^st club. The Lions’ first team has won two USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships and will continue play in USL PRO in 2014 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySoccer.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

www.MLSsoccer.com