Orlando City Soccer Club Archives - Page 4 of 8

Orlando City To Play 2014 Season At ESPN Wide World Of Sports

Orlando City Soccer Club to Play 2014 Season at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

2014 season ticket holders guaranteed first choice of seats for 2015 season

Orlando City Soccer Club announced today that the team will play itshomes games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort during the 2014 season. For the Lions, who aim to finalize plans this year to start play in Major League Soccer (MLS), the complex will serve as a one-year temporary home during renovations of the Florida Citrus Bowl, the Lions’ primary home stadium.

Tickets for the 2014 season will go on sale immediately. Season ticket holders for 2014 receive first choice of seats for the 2015 season, which Orlando City expects to be its inaugural season in MLS.

“We hope our fans are as thrilled as we are to call ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex our home field for the 2014 season,” said Phil Rawlins, president of Orlando City Soccer Club. “With professional sporting event experience, premier soccer fields and world-class amenities, this facility will enable us to play all of our home games in one location and in a venue where our fans will be closer to our players than ever before. We look forward to next year’s possibilities before hopefully heading into MLS for the 2015 season.”

To enhance the experience for spectators, additional stadium seating is planned to surround all four sides of the soccer field at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. With increased capacity of approximately 5,200, the stadium will be one of the largest soccer venues in Central Florida, expanding capacity foreven more fans to attend the Lion’s matches in 2014. Other amenities include free parking and a wide variety of food and beverage offerings.

“The team has really enjoyed playing on top-class, grass surface during Disney’s Pro-Soccer Classic for the past three years,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We’re very excited and hope that our fans will enjoy every match in 2014 from beginning to end.”

The Orlando City games builds on the growing portfolio of professional and youth soccer events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex as well as adds to the list of major pro sports events held in recent years at the complex, including the Disney Pro Soccer Classic, Atlanta Braves spring training, the Tampa Bay Bucs training camp, the NBA Pre-Draft Camp and Tampa Bay Rays regular-season games among other events.

The Florida Citrus Bowl is expected to re-open in early 2015 after undergoing more than $200 million in renovations.

For more information on the Lions’ 2014 season, please check OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Preaparing for 2014: Orlando City Signing News

Orlando City SC Lions Re-Sign Gallardo, Boden and Pulis for 2014 Season, Preparing For 2015 Season

Club signing players who have potential for jump to MLS in Spring 2015

Orlando City SC announced Monday that Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo, Defender Luke Boden and Midfielder Anthony Pulis have all re-signed with the Lions for the upcoming 2014 USL PRO season, pending USSF approval. The signings mark a continued effort by Head Coach Adrian Heath to retool the roster with talented players with an eye toward a 2015 entry into Major League Soccer (MLS).

“We are preparing a squad that consists of players who we believe might make that jump with us,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath.

Luke Boden originally signed with Orlando prior to the inaugural 2011 season and, along with Gallardo, is one of five players who have made their way onto the 2014 squad after joining the Lions in their first-ever season. Boden has been a consistent starter in Heath’s system over the past three seasons, playing in 61 regular season matches from 2011-2013.

In 2013, the defender started all of the matches he appeared in (22), playing 90 minutes all but one time.

Miguel Gallardo has been consistently been a mainstay between the nets over the past three seasons. The Torreon, Mexico, native has never had a Goals Against Average (GAA) higher than 1.00 during his time in Orlando, earning accolades such as 2011 USL PRO Goalkeeper of the year. In 2012, Gallardo led the league in GAA with a .780 average and recorded eight shutouts.

Gallardo played in 15 regular season matches for Orlando in 2013, totalling five shutouts and a .958 GAA in 1,221 minutes played. He also started all three postseason matches in the Lions’ run toward a 2013 USL PRO Championship.

Anthony Pulis re-joins the Lions after two successful seasons with Orlando, making 32 total appearances from 2012-2103. Pulis has served as an anchor in the midfield for Heath’s club, playing alongside newly promoted Coach/Midfielder James O’Connor.

Before joining the Lions in 2012, Pulis spent time with premier English sides such as Stoke City and Southampton.

Heath has said multiple times that the club is searching for players that would make the jump from USL PRO to MLS in 2015. Gallardo, Pulis and Boden join James O’Connor, Rob Valentino, Dennis Chin and Jamie Watson as players from the 2013 season to make the 2014 squad.

For more information and signings, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Transaction:

Orlando City SC (USL PRO) signs Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo, Defender Luke Boden, Midfielder Anthony Pulis

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier soccer club in the United States, aiming to be in Major League Soccer by 2015. The Lions recently captured the 2013 USL PRO Championship, the club’s second postseason title in just three years. 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 OrlandoCitySoccer.com and OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orange County Approves Funding For Orlando City Soccer Stadium

Orlando City Soccer Club Funding — Photo: Orlando City Soccer Club

Crucial vote passes Tuesday afternoon, funding for downtown Orlando City Soccer Club’s soccer stadium now complete

The Orange County Board of Commissioners voted through the approval of funds for a new downtown, multi-purpose soccer stadium Tuesday afternoon. With the funding plan now complete, Orlando City SC executives will now enter into final negotiations with Major League Soccer (MLS) to bring a franchise to Orlando.

“We are ecstatic about the positive vote,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “Our fans have been the driving force behind the effort to bring MLS to Orlando. This one is for them.”

The vote approved the use of Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funds for multiple venues, including a soccer stadium. The City of Orlando unanimously approved the funding on October 7, completing the financial structure of the proposed soccer stadium.

Club officials have stated that, with approval of funding for a downtown stadium, a franchise could be awarded as early as November. The Lions would begin play in MLS in Spring 2015.

“We’d like Orlando to be the next expansion team,” MLS Preisdent Abbott said in an interview with the Orlando Sentinel Monday. “We have in place a number of the factors that we think are needed to be successful, a strong leadership group and a strong fan base. Once we finalize (a stadium plan), we will have a Major League Soccer team here.”

For more information on the effort to bring MLS to Orlando, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Is One Step Closer To Soccer Stadium

City of Orlando Commissioners Unanimously Approve Funding For

Orlanco City SC Soccer Stadium

Orange County Commissioners Vote on 22^nd Final Step in Bringing MLS to Orlando

The City of Orlando Board of Commissioners voted through the approval of funds for a new downtown, multi-purpose soccer stadium Monday afternoon in downtown Orlando. The vote moves the club one step closer toward bringing a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise to Orlando, with the Orange County Commissioners vote on October 22 the final stage in completion of stadium funding.

“This is obviously a very big step toward our goal of bringing MLS,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “I am delighted to have the City behind us so we can now focus on the second vote that is only two weeks away.”

Supporters came out to the event to show the support of the vote, which was unanimous among the six Commissioners and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. The vote approved the use of Tourist Development Tax (TDT) funds for multiple venues, including a soccer stadium.

“There are significant days in our community and this is one of them,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Hopefully we have another one later this month.“

The final step on funding for a stadium will occur on Tuesday, October 22, at the County Administration Building. Pending the County approval of the stadium plan, Orlando would be able to enter into final negotiations with MLS to award an expansion team to Central Florida.

The October 22 vote takes place at 201 S Rosalind Avenue at the County Administration Building. Parking is available around the building.

For more information on the upcoming votes, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City 2013 USL PRO Championship Match Preview

Orlando City Faces Charlotte

Saturday In 2013 USL PRO Championship

Orlando City def Riverhounds — Photo by Allison Petro

Lions attempt to capture second postseason title against Eagles Saturday night

Orlando City SC (16-4-6, 54 points, No. 2 seed) hosts the Charlotte Eagles (10-5-11, 41 points, No. 5 seed) in the 2013 USL PRO Championship on Saturday, September 7, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions attempt to capture a second postseason title in franchise history Saturday night, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m.

“This is the final game, and we know what we have to do,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We will have another great crowd at the Citrus Bowl Saturday night and we want to make them happy.”

Saturday’s opponent, Charlotte, upset the No. 1 seeded Richmond Kickers 2-1 last Saturday night to advance to the Championship.Midfielder Chris Ramirez scored his second goal of the postseason and Nate Thornton notched the final goal for the victory.

“Their front three players will cause different problems than most of the players in the league,” Heath continued. “I wasn’t surprised that Charlotte beat Richmond. We have to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game. I think if we can do that, we can win the game.”

Leading the Charlotte frontline is striker Jorge Herrera, who led the Eagles in scoring in 2013 with 10 goals. Charlotte is coached by Mark Steffens, who’s in his 17^th year with the Eagles.

The Lions have played the Eagles twice in 2013, winning 1-0 in Orlando while ending in a 0-0 draw in Charlotte. The Lions have yet to fall to the Eagles in three years, compiling a 4-0-2 all-time record against the North Carolina side.

Orlando is in the Championship match for the first time since 2011. The Lions topped the Harrisburg City Islanders on penalty kicks two years ago, taking home the USL PRO Championship in the club’s inaugural season.

Tickets for the Championship game are available by calling (855) ORL-CITY. For more information on Saturday’s Championship match, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Orlando City To Host 2013 USL PRO Championship

Lions face Charlotte Eagles in 2013 USL PRO Championship at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando City SC (No. 2 seed) will host the 2013 USL PRO Championship against the Charlotte Eagles (No. 5 seed) on Saturday, September 7, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

The Eagles claimed their first postseason victory against their long-time rival Richmond as Midfielder Chris Ramirez scored his second goal of the postseason and Nate Thornton notched the winner for the 2-1 victory Saturday night. Orlando advanced to the Championship matchFriday with an exciting 3-2 victory over the Charleston Battery.

For more information on the Championship match against the Eagles on Saturday, including ticket availability, stay tuned 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 OrlandoCitySoccer.com and OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City Players Kick Open Foster Care Center

ORLANDO CITY SC PLAYERS HELP “KICK” OPEN COMMUNITY BASED CARE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA’S ALL-NEW FOSTER CARE FACILITY

— Soccer players donate time and toys to center —

As Community Based Care of Central Florida (CBCCFL) geared up today for their grand opening of CBC West – a brand-new service center dedicated to helping parents best care for foster children – athletes from Orlando City SC spent time at the facility ensuring a special room was filled with soccer balls, signed autographs and Lions merchandise to inspire the children.

The new CBC West building allows Devereux, One Hope United, IMPOWER and CBCCFL to work closely together helping foster children in need. In the past, each organization was scattered in separate buildings throughout the county. And now with CBC West, they will operate on all cylinders with ease, including helping foster parents make appointments, visitation sessions and attend support groups for their foster kids.

It is no surprise that foster children are more likely than most to need additional medical and emotional support. According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, “about 30% of children in foster care have severe emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems.” By working together under one roof, these four organizations can work hand-in-hand to bring positive results to Central Florida’s foster children.

Community Based Care of Central Florida (CBCCFL) is the lead agency overseeing foster and adoption programs in Orange, Osceola and Seminole county.

Devereux is a non-profit organization providing services around the nation for persons with emotional, developmental & educational disabilities.

One Hope United is an accredited, not-for-profit human service organization that provides a diverse array of high-quality prevention, intervention, counseling and child development programs.

IMPOWER is a non-profit organization dedicated to the mental health and well-being of children in need. They are focused on empowering the lives of those in need by offering personal attention, counseling, assistance and inspiration to help them succeed.

From visitation rooms where children can safely play with their biological parents to individual and group therapy, the new service center makes being a foster parent even easier.

Thanks to Orlando City SC players who donated time and toys for Central Florida’s foster children along with three Central Florida companies – McCree General Contractors & Architects, Michelee Puppets, and Blackrain Partners – the visitation rooms in the new building are now filled with cheerful and positive activities.

Orlando City Heads To Semifinals

Orlando City Lions Blank Riverhounds 5-0,

Will Host Semifinals Friday Night

Tan records brace in win, Orlando to face Charleston Battery Friday

Orlando City SC (No. 2 seed) defeated the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (No.7 seed) 5-0 Saturday night in the USL PRO Quarterfinals, advancing to the league Semifinals. 8,486 fans watched the Lions top the Riverhounds, with Orlando set to host the Charleston Battery on Friday, August 30, in the league Semifinals.

“I think the work rate that (Long) Tan and (Dennis) Chin produced set the tone for the entire night,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “My favorite quote to the players is ‘The supporters want to see you play like they would play if they had a chance.’ I think they did that tonight.”

The Lions got off to a hot start, with a goal occurring in just the 3^rd minute of play. A well-placed corner by Winger Luke Boden found the head of Forward Long Tan- who whipped his attempt past Pittsburgh Goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap for the 1-0 lead.

Immediately following, Pittsburgh went on the attack- with Riverhounds’ Midfielder Rob Vincent finding himself with open space behind the Orlando backline in the 4^th minute. Vincent slid his attempt past Orlando Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo, only for Defender Rob Valentino to make a sliding save inside the box- clearing the chance out of danger.

Just a minute later, the Lions converted a second goal, with Renan Boufleur cleaning up a loose ball inside the 6-yard box for the score. After an Anthony Pulis corner, Tan flicked it on for Boufleur in open space inside the 18-yard box- with the Phoenix FC loanee blasting it home for the 2-0 lead in just the 5^th minute of play.

Orlando didn’t let up for the remainder of the first 45 minutes, with Pittsburgh having few chances against a solid backline that included Valentino, Erik Ustruck, Luke Boden and Boufleur.

The second half started off much like the first, with a quick score by Orlando giving the Lions a comfortable 3-0 lead. After getting behind the Pittsburgh defense, Chin played a brilliant back heel pass to Tan – with the striker putting his shot past Gilstrap for his second goal of the night. The two scores in one game by Tan was the first time the striker notched a brace since joining the team in the 2012-13 offseason.

Orlando tacked on two more goals to seal the deal, with Chin converting in the 68^th minute while Midfielder Anthony Pulis drove home a penalty kick in the 79^th for the 5-0 advantage and victory.

The Lions will face the defending league Champions Charleston Battery in the league Semifinals on Friday, August 30, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Orlando holds a 7-1-2 advantage (W-L-T) against the Battery, with the most recent meeting on July 11 resulting in a Lions win.

Tickets are available for Friday night’s Semifinal by calling (855) ORL-CITY or by visiting OrlandoCitySoccer.com. The ticket office will have extended office hours leading up to the match: Sun 10am-2pm; Mon-Thu 9am-7pm; Fri 9am-2pm. Tickets will also be available on Friday at the Florida Citrus Bowl box office after 2p. For more information on the upcoming playoff game and more, please visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Orlando City Match Recap

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 2 3 5

Pittsburgh Riverhounds 0 0 0

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Long Tan (Luke Boden) 3^rd

ORL- Renan Boufleur (unassisted) 5^th

ORL- Long Tan (Dennis Chin) 48^th

ORL- Dennis Chin (Long Tan) 68^th

ORL- Anthony Pulis (penalty) 80^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Rob Valentino, Erik Ustruck, Renan Boufleur, Luke Boden, M James O’Connor (Ian Fuller 80’), Anthony Pulis, Adama Mbengue (Christian Duke 67’), Kevin Molino, F Long Tan (Freddie Braun 77’), Dennis Chin (Jean Alexandre 72’)

Pittsburgh Riverhounds- GK Hunter Gilstrap, D Sterling Flunder, Rich Costanzo (Mike Seamon 58’), Mike Green, Andrew Marshall, M Rob Vincent, Kevin Kerr (Stefan Lundberg 58’), Alfonso Motaglvan, Matt Dallman (Ryan Kinne 76’), F Mike Seth, Jose Angulo

Penalty Summary:

PIT- Andrew Marshall (Yellow) 4^th

ORL- Luke Boden (Yellow) 54^th

Match Facts:

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

Weather: Cloudy/Light Rain

Attendance: 8,486

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orange County Purple Pride Day For Orlando City

Orlando, Orange County Mayors Declare Friday “Purple Pride” Day

To Support The Orlando City Soccer Club

Mayors sign joint proclamation encouraging Central Florida to wear purple in support of the Lions’ playoff game

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs signed a joint proclamation Thursday, declaring Friday, August 23, “Purple Pride” day. The proclamation comes just a few days before the Lions begin the 2013 USL PRO playoffs against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

The full proclamation reads as follows:

Whereas, Orlando City Soccer Club is Orlando’s hometown soccer team, and is beloved throughout Central Florida; and

Whereas, Orlando finished the regular season in second place in the league standings with a record of 16-4-6 (W-L-T); and

Whereas, in only three short years in Orlando, the Lions have won two regular season titles and on league Championship; and

Whereas, on Saturday, August 24, the Orlando Lions will battle the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl for the opening round of the 2013 USL PRO postseason; and

Whereas, the Lions are aiming to bring a second USL PRO Championship to the Central Florida area, with the club last doing so in 2011; and

Whereas, the winner of the game will move onto the Semifinals, which will be held the weekend of August 30-September 1; and

Whereas, the City of Orlando and Orange County Government supports the Lions in their 2013 postseason run and encourages all residents to dress in Lions gear and wear purple this Friday and throughout the weekend to show their support

NOW, THEREFORE, WE, Buddy Dyer, Mayor of the City of Orlando, and Teresa Jacobs, Mayor of Orange County, hereby do proclaim Friday, August 23, 2013 as “Purple Pride Day.”

Tickets for the Quarterfinal game Saturday night are available by calling (855) ORL-CITY or by visiting OrlandoCitySoccer.com. Tickets start at just $15. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Lions Begin Postseason Play Saturday!

Orlando City Lions Begin Postseason Play Saturday Night

Pittsburgh Riverhounds come to town for opening round of USL PRO playoffs

ORLANDO, Fla.- Orlando City SC (16-4-6, 54 points, No. 2 seed) welcomes the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (10-8-8, 38 points, No. 7 seed) for the opening round of the 2013 USL PRO postseason this Saturday, August 24, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Quarterfinal match kicks off the playoffs for the Lions, who will attempt to win their second USL PRO Championship in three years.

“I think the important thing is that anything less than our best won’t be good enough,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We have to bring our ‘A’ game this Saturday.”

Orlando and Pittsburgh have met twice this season, with the Riverhounds holding the series advantage with one win and one draw in 2013. The most recent match saw Pittsburgh top the Lions 1-0 on August 3 at the Citrus Bowl.

The Riverhounds are led by Forward Jose Angulo, who finished tied atop the league’s goal-scoring leaders with 15 in 2013. The striker shares the Golden Boot title with Sporting Kansas City loanee and Forward Dom Dwyer, who also totaled 15 scores. Angulo’s 15 goals are nearly half of Pittsburgh’s team total, which ended at 36.

Playoffs are knockout-format, with the No.1 seed facing No.8, No.2 v No. 7, No. 3 v No.6, and No. 4 v No 5. Seeds remain the same after each round. If the Lions should advance past the first weekend of playoffs, the Semifinals would also be in Orlando- with the date set for Friday, August 30.

On the injury front, Midfielder Jamie Watson and Goalkeeper Jon Kempin will be working over the upcoming week to get back to full health- but Heath stressed that rushing injuries can lead to worse results.

“Depending on where they are, they may be available for Saturday’s game,” Heath added. “The important thing is to not rush them back.”

The Lions are 3-1-0 in postseason play in franchise history, which includes a victory over the Harrisburg City Islanders in the 2011 USL PRO Championship match in Orlando. Heath’s side was upset by the Wilmington Hammerheads 4-3 in the second round of the playoffs last year.

Tickets for the playoff game are available by calling (855) ORL-CITY or by visiting OrlandoCitySoccer.com. Tickets start at just $15.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Win Over Harrisburg

Alexandre Scores Brace, Orlando City Lions

Grab 3-1 Win Over Harrisburg

Midfielder returns from national team duty with Haiti, scores brace in first half

Orlando City SC (12-2-6, 42 points) defeated the Harrisburg City Islanders (11-8-1, 34 points) 3-1 Saturday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. 7,311 supporters watched Orlando Midfielder Jean Alexandre score two in his return from national team play, leading the Lions to a crucial three points at home.

“I thought first half we played terrific and played a lot of really good football,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We dropped off in the second half but after all the travel and games we’ve played recently- the upcoming break is coming at the right time.“

Orlando began the match in fine form, finding open spaces behind the Harrisburg backline in the first minutes of play. The first scoring chance for the Lions came in the 20^th minute of play, with the second Orlando corner of the night nearly converting for the lead. Defenders Luke Boden and Rob Valentino almost connected on the attempt, with Valentino’s header ricocheting off the crossbar and out of danger. Orlando kept digging, however, with their first score of the match following soon after.

Midfielder Jean Alexandre’s return to the Lions provided an immediate boost for Heath’s side in the midfield. Alexandre, who spent the last three weeks as captain of the Haitian National Team in CONCACAF Gold Cup play, converted Orlando’s first score in the 25^th minute. After another corner attempt, Boden found himself free with possession- crossing in to the near post as Alexandre nodded it in for the 1-0 advantage.

The Haiti native wasn’t done scoring in his return to Orlando, with a well-played ball by Midfielder Jamie Watson finding Alexandre for his second of the night. In the 36^th minute, Watson fed a charging Alexandre behind the City Islanders’ defense- with the midfielder tucking it in the back of the net for the 2-0 lead.

Orlando kept the scoring up as the match went on, with Forward Dennis Chin netting his fourth goal of the season in the process. Substitute Jonathan Mendoza began the play, with his effort deflecting right to Chin. The speedy striker slotted home the score inside the 18-yard box, giving the Lions a 3-0 lead midway through the second half.

A late goal by Harrisburg’s Lucky Mkosano put the visiting side within striking distance, but the two-goal differential proved to be too much as Orlando came out on top 3-1.

After a tough stretch of matches in the month of July, the Lions will now be able to take time and recuperate with their next game set for August 3^rd at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. The two clubs met on Wednesday night, with the game ending in a 0-0 draw in Pittsburgh, Penn.

For more information on the upcoming home match against the Riverhounds, stay tuned to OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Orlando City SC Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 2 1 3

Harrisburg City Islanders 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Jean Alexandre (Luke Boden) 25^th

ORL- Jean Alexandre (Jamie Watson) 36^th

ORL- Dennis Chin (unassisted) 71^st

HAR- Lucky Mkosano (Yann Erka) 79^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Kevin Ellis, Rob Valentino, Renan Boufleur, Luke Boden, M Christian Duke, James O’Connor, Jamie Watson (Jonathan Mendoza 44’), Jean Alexandre (Freddie Braun 73’), Adama Mbengue (Erik Ustruck 89’) F Dennis Chin

Harrisburg- GK Nick Noble, D Stephen Basso (Antonio Bua 74’), Andrew Ribeiro, Coady Andrews, Colin Zizzi, M Jason Pelletier (Matt Bahner 51’), Kenny Caceros (Jamiel Hardware 69’), Cris Hernandez (Yann Ekra 46’), Don Anding, F Jimmy McLaughlin (Morgan Langley) 62’, Lucky Mkosano

Penalty Summary:

HAR- Kenny Caceros (yellow)- 16^th

ORL- Kevin Ellis (yellow) – 89^th

Match Facts:

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

Weather: Clear/Light Rain

Attendance: 7,311

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Lions Draws Against Dutch Lions

Dayton Equalizes Late, Orlando Grabs Point Away From Home

Hard-fought away match consisting of seven bookings results in road point for Lions

Orlando City SC (11-2-5, 38 points) played to a 3-3 draw against the Dayton Dutch Lions (7-4-6, 27 points) Sunday night at Beavercreek High School Stadium in Beavercreek, Ohio. Sporting Kansas City (Major League Soccer) loanee and MLS 2011 Rookie of the Year C.J. Sapong scored his first goal for the Lions in the second half to put the Lions up 3-2, but Orlando was unable to hold off a late Dayton rally to end the match at 3-3.

Orlando notched the first score of the match in the 24^th minute, with Forward Dennis Chin knocking in a loose ball in front of Dayton Goalkeeper Matthew Williams to give the Lions a 1-0 advantage. After the ball was previously scooped up by Williams, Chin refused to give up on the play- knocking in fumbled possession by the goalkeeper for the early lead.

The Dutch Lions responded later on in the first half, with Dayton Midfielder Shintaro Harada equalizing in the 35^th minute of play. After a pass in by the Dutch Lions, an unlucky rebound found Harada, who blasted his attempt past Sporting Kansas City loanee and Goalkeeper Jon Kempin for the goal.

Orlando wasn’t done with scoring in the first half, with a well played give-and-go between James O’Connor and loanee C.J. Sapong resulting in the Lions’ second goal of the evening. After receiving a pass in the midfield, O’Connor made a run on the left side of the pitch, finding Sapong in the heart of the Dutch Lions defense. Sapong immediately fed it back to O’Connor behind the Dayton backline, with the midfielder converting for the 2-1 lead.

Dayton’s Shintaro Harada, who was shown a yellow card for a tactical foul in the 42^nd minute, was given his second at the start of the second half for the Dutch Lions after the same type of professional takedown – putting the home side down to a disadvantage of 10 men for the rest of the match.

Despite the man down, Dayton equalized off of a penalty kick in the 59^th minute. A handball was called on the Orlando backline inside the 18-yard box, awarding the penalty opportunity. Dutch Lion Joel DeLass took the opportunity in the 57^th minute, with it being called back due to early movement on the home team side. DeLass calmly converted the second attempt a minute later, tying the match at 2-2.

The Lions answered with a penalty conversion of their own, with Sapong scoring his first goal for Orlando in the 66^th minute. Dutch Lion Goalkeeper Williams fumbled a long ball played in, pushing off Sapong as the forward attempted to take away possession. The 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year slotted it past Williams, giving Orlando the 3-2 advantage.

Dayton’s final goal occurred in the 89^thminute, with a well-played volley from substitute Brandon Swartzendruber beating Kempin in the upper right hand corner to tie the match at 3-3. Despite a few late chances by Orlando, the match ended at the same 3-3 scoreline.

Orlando continues play on the road this Wednesday, July 17, against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds at Highmark Stadium. The two squads have yet to meet in 2013, with the Lions holding a 2-0-2 record all time against the Riverhounds. The match is set to kickoff at 7 p.m. EST. For more information on the upcoming away game in Pittsburgh and Orlando’s next home game on Saturday, July 20, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Orlando City SC Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 2 1 3

Dayton Dutch Lions 1 2 3

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dennis Chin (unassisted) 24^th

DDL- Shintaro Harada (unassisted) 35^th

ORL- James O’Connor (C.J. Sapong) 43^rd

DDL- Joel Delass (penalty) 59^th

ORL- C.J. Sapong (penalty) 66^th

DAY- Brandon Swartzendruber (unassisted) 88^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin; D Renan Boufleur, Rob Valentino, Erik Ustruck, Luke Boden; M James O’Connor, Anthony Pulis, Adama Mbengue, Jamie Watson (Jonathan Mendoza 55’); F C.J. Sapong, Dennis Chin (Long Tan 61’)

Dayton- GK Matthew Williams, D Taylor Lord, Brock Granger (Eric Kissinger 77’), Gregory Preciado, Shane Smith (Remco Kiaasse 46’), M Joel DeLass, Shintaro Harada, Irakll Khutsidze (Joseph Broekhulzen 85’), F Tjeerd Westdijk, Gibson Bardsley (Joseph Madigan 64’), Thomas Garner (Brandon Swartzendruber 88’)

Penalty Summary:

DDL- Shintaro Harada-42^nd (Yellow)

DDL- Shintaro Harada-47^th (2^nd Yellow/Red)

DDL- Matthew Williams- 66^th (Yellow)

DDL- Brock Granger- 74^th (Yellow)

ORL- Rob Valentino- 75^th (Yellow)

ORL- Anthony Pulis- 86^th (Yellow)

DDL- Tjeerd Westdijk- 90^th (Yellow)

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 6:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City SC Defeats Charleston Battery

Watson Scores Brace, Lions Top Battery 2-1 Thursday Night

Club breaks mid-week attendance record with 8,729 fans at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando City SC (10-2-4, 37 points) downed the visiting Charleston Battery (7-3-6, 27 points) 2-1 Thursday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in front of a club mid-week record crowd of 8,729 fans. Jamie Watson scored a goal in each of the halves to propel the Lions to a crucial home win in USL PRO play, moving Orlando further ahead in the league table.

“It’s a huge relief to get this tonight,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “After losing players and a few past results it was important to get three points.”

The Lions fielded a starting lineup that featured all four Sporting loanees, including Defender Kevin Ellis and Forward C.J. Sapong- who arrived in Central Florida earlier in the afternoon.

The early parts of the first 45 minutes were a back and forth affair between the two sides, with Orlando attacking in pockets behind Sapong and team-leading scorer Jamie Watson. Those pockets continued to open up, with the Lions capitalizing on a well-played series in the 29^th minute.

After a Charleston attack, Defender Rob Valentino began the series by clearing out the Battery offensive, finding loanee and 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year Sapong at the mid stripe. The striker then nodded the pass to fellow Sporting KC player Christian Duke, who played a through ball to a charging Watson. Watson then slotted his attempt in the lower right-hand corner past Battery Goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper for the 1-0 advantage.

The second half began with Charleston on the offensive, with the Lions backline clearing out multiple early chances by the South Carolina based side. Charleston equalized in the 55^th minute, with a Jose Cuevas goal putting the match at 1-1. Battery Forward Dane Kelley set up the strike, finding Cuevas in open space inside the 18-yard box for the goal.

The Lions’ pace picked up after allowing the score, controlling possession while creating more opportunities as the second half progressed. Sapong created Orlando’s next scoring chance, with the striker getting tripped up while making a run just inside the penalty area- awarding the Lions a penalty kick. Watson took the attempt, converting past Cooper, despite the goalkeeper guessing correctly to give Orlando the 2-1 advantage heading into the final 15 minutes of the match.

Despite some late chances by the visiting side, Orlando held strong while keeping the scoreline at 2-1- gaining three valuable points at home with the win.

Orlando takes to the road for their next two matches, playing away at the Dayton Dutch Lions and Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Sunday, July 14, and Wednesday, July 17, respectively. Dayton currently stands in 7^th in the USL PRO table with a record of 7-4-5 (26 points) while Pittsburgh is three spots behind in 10^th with a mark of 5-6-6 (17 points). Orlando has taken on Dayton once in 2013, topping the visiting Dutch Lions 4-0 back on April 27. The Lions and Riverhounds have yet to face this season.

Both matches will be streamed live on USLNation.com, with Sunday’s match kicking off at 6:30 p.m. EST. For more information on the upcoming away matches and Orlando’s next home game on Saturday, July 20, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Orlando City Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 1 1 2

Charleston Battery 1 0 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL–Jamie Watson (Christian Duke) 29^th

CHB-Jose Cuevas (Dane Kelley) 55^th

ORL-Jamie Watson (penalty) 70^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Luke Boden, Renan Boufleur, Rob Valentino, Kevin Ellis, M James O’Connor, Christian Duke, Freddie Braun (Jonathan Mendoza 55^’), F Long Tan (Dennis Chin 62’), Jamie Watson (Erik Ustruck 84’), C.J. Sapong

Charleston Battery- GK Odisnel Cooper, D Emmanuel Adjetey, Colin Falvey, Kenneth Ellison (Taylor Mueller 83’), John Wilson, M Jarad van Shaik (Haviel Cordoves 75’), Nicholas Patterson, Michael Azira, F Jose Cuevas (Bryce Alderson 71’), Quinton Griffith, Dane Kelley

Penalty Summary:

CHB– Kenneth Ellison (Yellow) 25^th

Match Facts:

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

Weather: Overcast

Attendance: 8,729

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 pream 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 OrlandoCitySoccer.com and OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC Draw Against Charleston Battery

Orlando City SC Lions Score First, Hold Off Charleston in 1-1 Draw

Orlando Takes Key Point Away From Home Despite Playing Man Down in Final 27 Minutes

Orlando City SC (10-2-4, 34 points) played to a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery (7-2-6, 27 points) at Blackbaud Stadium in Charleston, S.C., Friday night. After having a goal advantage early in the second half, the Lions went down a man – allowing a last-minute score to even the match at 1-1.

An unlucky challenge got the game off on the wrong foot for the Lions, with Winger Bryan Burke going off the pitch due to an apparent leg injury in the 8^th minute of play. His status will be evaluated early next week.

Sporting Kansas City loanee and Goalkeeper Jon Kempin, who was making his first start in league play in just under a month, made key saves for the Lions to keep the score line even early. One of those saves was in the 18^th minute, with Battery Midfielder Michael Azira blasting a shot inside the 18-yard box only to be deflected out of danger by the Kansas native.

The goalkeeper continued to play at a high level throughout the first half, keeping Charleston scoreless despite multiple chances by the opponent’s frontline in the later part of the first half.

After the break, the Orlando offense turned up the heat-with the Lions capitalizing in the 56^th minute of play. After earning a corner kick, Defender Luke Boden whipped in an attempt, finding Rob Valentino on the volley for the 1-0 advantage.

Despite the 1-0 lead, the Lions went down to 10 men after Midfielder Adama Mbengue was shown a straight red card with a challenge on the Battery in the 63^rd minute of play. The man-down put Orlando at a disadvantage for the rest of the match, with Charleston capitalizing in the final minutes of regulation.

The Battery came on the offensive in the final parts of the match, attacking open spaces in the Orlando backline. The Charleston side knocked it even in the 89^th minute, with Haviel Cordoves’ shot deflecting past Kempin to even the score line at 1-1. The Lions held off another late charge by the home team, taking a key point away from Orlando in the draw.

With the result, Orlando stretches their lead atop the league table over second-place Harrisburg City Islanders (31 points) by a full three points.

Orlando returns home for a rematch against the Battery on Thursday, July 11, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. For more information on the upcoming Charleston match, including ticket prices and more, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City Match Recap:

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 0 1 1

Charleston Battery 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Rob Valentino (Luke Boden) 56^th

CRL- Haviel Cordoves (unassisted) 89^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Bryan Burke (Erik Ustruck 9’), Luke Boden, Rob Valentino, Renan Boufleur, M Jonathan Mendoza (Brian Fekete 77’), Anthony Pulis, Adama Mbengue, James O’Connor (Freddie Braun 46’), F Dennis Chin (Long Tan 77’), Jamie Watson (Christian Duke 45’)

Charleston Battery- GK Odisnel Cooper, D Mark Wiltse, Colin Falvey, Kenneth Ellison (Haviel Cordoves 73’), Emmanuel Adjetey, M Jarad Van Schaik (Bryce Alderson 69’), Quinton Griffith (Zachary Prince 81’), Nicholas Paterson, Michael Azira, F Jose Cuevas, Dane Kelley

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Red) 63^rd

CRL- Nicholas Paterson (Yellow) 81^st

Match Facts:

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

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 4,387

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Sporting Kansas City Recalls Striker Dom Dwyer From Orlando City SC

Sporting Kansas City Recalls Striker Dom Dwyer from Orlando City SC

League-leading scorer recalled by MLS affiliate

Orlando City (USL PRO) and Sporting Kansas City (Major League Soccer) announced Thursday that Forward Dom Dwyer will be recalled from the Lions, returning to Kansas City today. Dwyer holds the league all-time single season scoring record with 15 goals through 13 games played.

“We are always aware of the loan agreement that they (Sporting) could call him up,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We respect that decision and it’s something we knew that could happen. He’s a great kid to have around with a great personality, but we are going to continue on with our season. It’s time for one or two players to step up and continue that goal scoring Dom brought to the team.”

The striker broke the scoring record, originally held by Jhonny Arteaga of FC New York, back on June 7 vs. USL side Phoenix FC. Dwyer has a total of 18 goals in all competition in 2013, a franchise record for goals in a single season. In USL PRO action, Dwyer totalled 1,017 minutes and 31 points.

Dwyer, 22, was one of four Sporting KC players loaned to Orlando City in March along with Christian Duke, Jon Kempin and Yann Songo’o. A Generation Adidas signing, Dwyer was selected by Sporting KC in the first round of the 2012 MLS SuperDraft out of the University of South Florida (USF). He made two MLS appearances (including playoffs) during his rookie season in addition to minutes in nine MLS Reserve League games and two international friendlies.

Dwyer will be available for selection this Saturday when Sporting Kansas City hosts the Columbus Crew at 7:30 p.m. CT at Sporting Park.

The Lions return to regular-season action this Saturday, June 29, against the unbeaten Richmond Kickers (7-0-5) at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. with tickets starting at just $15.

For more info on the match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club: