Florida Citrus Bowl Invites Public To U.S. Women’s National Team Training Session

U.S. Women’s National Team to Hold Public Training Session

November 9, 2013 at

Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando

Florida Citrus Bowl
United States (USA) starting XI. The women’s national team of the United States defeated the Korea Republic 5-0 during an international friendly at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ, on June 20, 2013.

U.S. Soccer Fans Are Encouraged to Attend Public Training Session at 11 a.m. ET as U.S. WNT Prepares to Face Brazil

All U.S. Soccer fans are invited to attend the U.S. Women’s National Team’s public training session on Saturday, Nov. 9, at11 a.m. ET at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla.

Admission is free and open to the public. U.S. Soccer Supporters Club members will receive premium seating at the public training session. If fans wish to take part in this exclusive priority, they can join the U.S. Soccer Supporters Club through ussoccer.com or at the stadium on the day of the training session.

At the session, fans will get a first-hand look at how the U.S. Women’s National Team prepares for a match a little more than 24 hours before kickoff.

Fans attending the public training session at the Citrus Bowl are asked to park in Lots 1, 6, 7 and A free of charge. Fans may enter the stadium through Gate B, which will open at 10:30 a.m. ET.

The U.S. will face Brazil in an international friendly match on Sunday, Nov. 10, at 3:30 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the match live on NBC, as well as follow the action on ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker and via Twitter @ussoccer_wnt.

The meeting of the world’s top-ranked U.S. team against fourth-ranked Brazil marks the first match between the countries in the United States since 2008, when the USA pulled out a 1-0 victory in San Diego. The teams have played three times since: in Beijing, China, at the 2008 Olympic gold medal game; in Dresden, Germany, during the historic 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal; and in Chiba, Japan, during an international tournament in April 2012.

Tickets are on sale through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout Central Florida (including many Walmart locations), as well as the Amway Center ticket office (open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.) [Note: Tickets are not sold at the Florida Citrus Bowl except on the day of the event.]

The match will be the USA’s first visit to Orlando and the Florida Citrus Bowl since May 22, 1999, when the Americans also played Brazil. That 3-0 U.S. victory featured Mia Hamm scoring her 108th-career goal to break the international scoring record.

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Orlando City SC Win Over Harrisburg

Orlando City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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 City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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 20th 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.

Orlando City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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 25th 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.

Orlando City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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 36th 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 City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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.

Orlando City SC
Photos: Alex Schierholtz

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 3rd 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) 25th

ORL- Jean Alexandre (Jamie Watson) 36th

ORL- Dennis Chin (unassisted) 71st

HAR- Lucky Mkosano (Yann Erka) 79th

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)- 16th

ORL- Kevin Ellis (yellow) – 89th

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear/Light Rain

Attendance: 7,311

Orlando City Soccer

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.

 

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Orlando City SC Defeats Charleston Battery

Orlando City
Photos: Allison Petro/Alex Schieholtz

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.

Orlando City
Photos: Allison Petro/Alex Schieholtz

“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.

Orlando City
Photos: Allison Petro/Alex Schieholtz

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 29th 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. 

Orlando City
Photos: Allison Petro/Alex Schieholtz

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 55th 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.

Orlando City
Photos: Allison Petro/Alex Schieholtz

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 7th in the USL PRO table with a record of 7-4-5 (26 points) while Pittsburgh is three spots behind in 10th 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:

ORLJamie Watson (Christian Duke) 29th

CHB-Jose Cuevas (Dane Kelley) 55th

ORL-Jamie Watson (penalty) 70th

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) 25th

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Overcast

Attendance: 8,729

Orlando City

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s 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.

 

 

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Match Preview: Orlando City hosts Brazilian Champion Fluminense FC

Lions Host Brazilian Champion Fluminense FC in International Friendly Saturday

Orlando City Soccer Club

Kickoff 7:30 p.m. at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando City SC hosts Brazilian Champion Fluminense FC in an international friendly on Saturday, June 22, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The game will broadcast in Brazil on Globo TV, one of Brazil’s largest TV networks.

“We’re delighted to host a club like Fluminense,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “It’s not very often you get to play one of the biggest clubs from Brazil. They have some great players playing for them and it’s just a great opportunity for our players and fans alike to see them play.”

Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the top level of Brazilian soccer. This year they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious Libertadores of American Cup. Led by Head Coach Abel Braga, who began his professional career with the club, Fluminense boasts some of the top talent from the country of Brazil and beyond.

The team has been in Orlando since Monday, training at the club’s practice facility in Sanford while taking in the Central Florida area.

Saturday’s match adds to the list of top-level clubs Orlando has played in the Central Florida area, which includes: English Premier League clubs Newcastle United, Stoke City, Bolton Wanderers and A.S. Roma of Serie A.

For more information on Saturday’s match, go to Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City Soccer

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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Goals in 87th, 90th Minutes Lift Orlando City Lions To 2-0 Victory

Orlando City

Orlando City Lions undefeated in last 25 regular season home matches

Behind 87th and 90th minute goals by Jamie Watson and Dom Dwyer, Orlando City (10-1-2, 32 points) topped visiting Antigua Barracuda FC (0-10-0, 0 points) 2-0 Sunday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The win marked the 25th consecutive regular season home match without defeat, dating back to June of 2011.

The Lions controlled possession early on, with the team adjusting to a lineup that featured 10 different starters from Friday night’s 2-0 win over the visiting Phoenix FC. Players including Defenders Justin Clark and Brian Fekete, along with former Orlando City U23s defensive stalwart Oumar Diakhite, made their first starts of the 2013 season- getting valuable minutes under their belts against Antigua.

Orlando City
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida

Early chances by Midfielders Adama Mbengue and Assistant Coach/Midfielder Ian Fuller loosened up the Antigua backline toward the middle of the first half, with the Lions gaining more chances as the match went on. Mbengue and Fuller both had attempts ring off the right-hand post, coming dangerously close to the back of the net. The chances continued to mount for Orlando, but despite the increased pressure the clubs went into halftime tied 0-0.

League-leading scorer Dom Dwyer, Forward Long Tan and Midfielder Jamie Watson came in after the break to give the Lions a spark up front, looking to get by the Antigua backline. After chipping away and earning continued chances, Orlando finally got their chance with three minutes left to play in regulation.

Orlando City
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida

Former Portland Timber Midfielder Freddie Braun was making a turn in the 18-yard box in the 86th minute, only for Barracuda Defender Dublin George to trip Braun- awarding Orlando the penalty. Watson converted in the bottom-left corner past Goalkeeper Molvin James, putting the Lions up 1-0. The penalty conversion marked the second straight game in which Watson converted an attempt and his seventh goal of the season.

The Lions weren’t done, with Watson finding Dwyer on a well-played ball past the Antigua defense, with the striker scoring his 15th of the season in the 90th. The conversion extended Dwyer’s single-season record of goals in a USL PRO season, which he broke on Friday in the team’s win over Phoenix.

Orlando City
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida

Goalkeeper Jon Kempin, who saw his first regular season start since an April 19th match against the LA Blues, played the full 90 minutes Sunday night behind a steady Orlando backline. The 0-0 draw was the Kansas native’s first shutout in purple colors since coming on loan at the beginning of the season.

Tonight’s win marked the 25th consecutive match the Lions have been undefeated in USL PRO regular season play at home, dating back to the team’s inaugural season in June of 2011 (Antigua). The Lions are 7-0-0 at home in 2013, scoring 25 goals while only allowing six at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Head Coach Adrian Heath looked past the three points after the match, saying the team needs to improve and was not impressed with the club’s play.

“We were pathetic,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel sorry for the supporters who came out and watched that performance. I’ve learned an awful lot about a lot of people today.”

Orlando enters into the fourth round of the US Open Cup this Wednesday, June 12, in Kansas City, Kansas, against Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City. The Lions topped the Colorado Rapids 3-1 on May 28 at the Florida Citrus Bowl, marking the first time in franchise history the club has beaten an MLS club in the US Open Cup. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. EST.

The four players on loan from SKC, including Dom Dwyer, Jon Kempin, Christian Duke and Yann Songo’o, will be unavailable for selection on Wednesday. For more information on Wednesday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City
Alex Schierholtz/Sportstalk Florida

Orlando City Match Recap

Team                      1    2    Final

Orlando City              0    2    2

Antigua Barracuda FC      0    0    0

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Jamie Watson (penalty) 87th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Jamie Watson) 90th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Erik Ustruck, Oumar Diakhite, Justin Clark, Brian Fekete (Bryan Burke 66’), M Adama Mbengue (Jamie Watson 53’), Christian Duke, Ian Fuller (Dom Dwyer 46’), Freddie Braun, Jonathan Mendoza, F Dennis Chin (Long Tan 53’)

Antigua Barracuda FC- Molvin James, Dublin George, Karanja Mack, Mervyn Hazelwoord, Hazeley Pyle, Lawson Robinson, Orlando Mitchum (Alex Phillip 74’), Toric Robinson, Andre Manders (Eugine Kirwan 31’), Randolph Burton, Tamorley Thomas

Penalty Summary:

ANT- Eugine Kirwan (Yellow) 68’

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear/Cloudy

Attendance: 6,187

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

 

 

 

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Orlando City Downs Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids 3-1

Orlando City
Photo: Alex Schierholtz

Dwyer with brace, Burke with goal/assist in Orlando City SC franchise’s first win over MLS club in US Open Cup play

Orlando City SC (USL PRO) defeated the visiting Colorado Rapids (Major League Soccer) 3-1 Tuesday night in the third round of US Open Cup play at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla. Forward Dom Dwyer notched two goals in the second half, leading the club to its first-ever win over an MLS club in US Open Cup play and advancing Orlando to the 4th round of competition.

“I think just before and during the second half we were far and away the better team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I thought we were worthy winners and it would have been a travesty if we didn’t take home the win.”

Orlando City
Photo: Alex Schierholtz

Orlando got on the board early, with a Bryan Burke score giving the Lions the 1-0 advantage. In the 4th minute, the winger received the ball on the edge of the box- rifling his attempt off a Colorado defender and into the back of the net. The goal was Burke’s second consecutive, counting regular season play, with the former Kitsap Puma (PDL) star netting his first goal of the season Saturday night in USL PRO season over Wilmington.

Colorado quickly responded, with a defensive turnover leading to the equalizer. Rapids’ Midfielder Kamani Hill jumped on a bad pass by the Orlando backline in the 17th minute, putting his attempt past Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo to even the game at 1-1.

After finishing out the first half tied, Orlando began the second half on the attack. In the 48th minute, Burke surged down the right hand side- floating a ball to a waiting Dom Dwyer on the back post. The USL PRO leading scorer whipped his header attempt into the back left corner, giving the Lions a 2-1 lead.

Orlando City
Photo: Alex Schierholtz

Orlando continued to push forward, resulting in a costly mistake by Colorado Goalkeeper Steward Ceus in the 57th minute. After getting free past the Rapids backline, Dwyer had a 1-on-1 with Ceus, with the goalkeeper making a last-ditch effort by tackling the Cuckfield, native, just outside the 6-yard box. The tackle resulted in a straight red, leaving the Rapids down a man heading into the final 30 minutes of the match.

It didn’t take long for Orlando to capitalize on the man-up advantage. Former Orlando City U23s Midfielder Adama Mbengue played a great ball through to Long Tan on the edge of the box in the 63rd minute, with the former DC United Striker finding Dwyer on the reception of his pass. Dwyer converted past the newly-subbed Clint Irwin for the 3-1 lead.  Orlando controlled possession to close out the match, topping the Rapids with the final score 3-1.

Orlando City
Photo: Alex Schierholtz

The win marked a few firsts for the Lions, including the club’s first win over an MLS side in Open Cup play and first time advancing to the 4th round of competition.

At time of distribution, the winner of the Des Moines Menace (PDL) and Sporting Kansas City (MLS) was not determined. Whichever club wins will play Orlando in the 4th round, with the Lions traveling to Sporting Park to play SKC in case the MLS club prevails while hosting the PDL side in Orlando if the Menace win. The match will be on Wednesday, June 12. Orlando is the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC.

Orlando City Match Recap

Team                           1    2    Final

Orlando City SC                1    2    3

Colorado Rapids                1    0    1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Bryan Burke (unassisted) 4th

COL- Kamani Hill (unassisted) 18th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Bryan Burke) 48th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Long Tan) 63rd

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- Miguel Gallardo, Yann Songo’o, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Rob Valentino, Anthony Pulis, James O’Connor, Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue (Jamie Watson 67), Dom Dwyer, Long Tan (Dennis Chin 76)

Colorado Rapids- Steward Ceus, Marvell Wynne, Shane O’Neill, German Mera, Anthony Wallace, Dillon Powers, Nick LaBrocca (Atiba Harris 72), Kamani Hill (Deshorn Brown 66), Tony Cascio, Kevin Harbottle (Clint Irwin 58), Danny Mwanga

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Anthony Pulis (Yellow) 32nd

COL- Shane O’Neill (Yellow) 36th

COL- Steward Ceus (Red) 56th

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Yellow) 65th

COL- Atiba Harris (Yellow) 80th

Match Facts:

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear/Cloudy

Attendance: 4,128

 Orlando City

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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Orlando City Faces Dayton at Home Saturday Night at 7:30 p.m.

Orlando City Soccer

Lions on 20-game home unbeaten streak during regular season play

Orlando, Fla.— After earning a point on the road in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday night, Orlando (3-1-1, 10 points) comes back to Central Florida for a three-game homestand starting this Saturday night against the Dayton Dutch Lions (1-0-0, 3 points) at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. as the Lions look to extend their 20-game home unbeaten streak in USL PRO regular season play at the Citrus Bowl.

The Lions drew against the Charlotte Eagles late Tuesday night, moving Orlando up to top spot in league standings with 10 points through five games played. A goal by Dom Dwyer in the 8th minute put Orlando up early, only for a late equalizer by Eagles’ Midfielder Nathan Thornton in the 90th minute allowing Charlotte to grab the tie and win from the Lions.

Orlando topped the visiting LA Blues 3-2 in front of a regular-season record crowd of 9,140 in their last home match at Fifth Third Bank Field. Midfielder Jamie Watson, who was named the USL PRO player of the Week Tuesday, was involved with all three goals as Orlando avenged their only loss of the young season.

Orlando is 2-0-4 all-time against Dayton, who plays their second match of the season on Friday in Plant City, Fla., against expansion VSI Tampa Bay. The team is coached by Patrick Bal with Gibson Bardsley and Remco Klaasse leading the team in scoring with one goal a piece. Their lone win came against Pittsburgh on April 20, topping the Riverhounds 2-1.

The Lions then continue their homestand this Tuesday, April 30, at 7:30 p.m. against fellow Florida side VSI Tampa Bay. Pregame festivities including a concert by local band Posterra. For more information on this week’s upcoming matches, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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Orlando City SC Announces MetroPCS Concert Series

Metro PCS

Orlando City SC Announces MetroPCS Concert Series

Local bands to play in concert series before home matches in 2013

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City, in cooperation with corporate partner MetroPCS, announced the 2013 MetroPCS Concert Series on Wednesday. The concert series, which will feature local bands from the Central Florida area before each home match in 2013 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, adds to the already exciting gameday atmosphere at Orlando City matches as the club heads into its third year of operation.

“This is our second season partnering with OCSC as the exclusive wireless provider and we appreciate their efforts in delivering our message to the Central Florida community,” said Chandra Waters, director of Advertising and Public Relations at MetroPCS. “In return, we are proud to support them on their journey toward joining Major League Soccer (MLS), as well as introduce fans to the wide range of local music talent.”

Concerts will commence one hour prior to kickoff in the MetroPCS fan zone, encouraging fans to come and experience the in-stadium atmosphere before the opening whistle blows. The band lineup, brought to you by WJRR, for the first half of the season is below. The second half will be announced at a later date. This year’s fan zone will be the franchise’s busiest, with more booths, sponsors and activities than ever before.

“The fans of OCSC are in for a real treat this season with the addition of the Concert Series during pre-game festivities,” continued Waters. “From the moment they enter the stadium, there will be a palpable feel of excitement!  There will be something for everyone and we are proud to be the exclusive sponsor of the Concert Series, which will bring in some of the most talented local artists in Central Florida.”

The concert series begins with Dropa Stone at the Lions home opener on Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.  The band plays a rock-based style of music with blues, funk and reggae influences. The Concert Series will take place in the concourse area of the stadium and fans are encouraged to come early and enjoy the music before each match.

Lineup of bands through 6/29/13:

4/14/2013

Rochester Rhinos Dropa Stone

4/19/2013

Los Angeles Blues The Crazy Carls

4/27/2013

Dayton Dutch Lions B2BB

4/30/2013

VSI Tampa Bay Postera

5/4/2013

Antigua Barracuda Leaving Haven

5/25/2013

Wilmington Hammerheads To Be Determined*

6/7/2013

Phoenix FC Wolves Empire Theory

6/9/2013

Antigua Barracuda Savi Fernandez

6/22/2013

Fluminise Latin Band

6/29/2013

Richmond Kickers A Brilliant Lie

For more information on the concert series, visit orlandocitysoccer.com.

*Band for 5/25 match to be determined at a later date.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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Orlando City Soccer To Host Brazilian Powerhouse Fluminense Football Club!

Orlando City Soccer

Orlando To Host Brazilian Powerhouse Fluminense FC

Game to be played on June 22 at the Florida Citrus Bowl against 2012 Brazilian Champions

Orlando, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Fluminense Football Club, is proud to announce an international friendly between the two teams on Saturday, June 22, at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The announcement comes off the heels of new Brazilian Owner Flavio Augusto da Silva making a significant investment in Orlando City last week, exhibiting the Lion’s strong new ties with the country of Brazil.

“We are delighted to be hosting the reigning Brazilian Champions, Fluminense,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “They are one of the very best teams in all of Brazil and have a host of world-class players in their squad. I’m sure it will be a great spectacle for our fans.”

Fluminense FC competes in Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A, the top level of Brazilian soccer.  This year they are also one of the sides representing Brazil in the prestigious Libertadores of American Cup Led by Head Coach Abel Braga, who began his professional career with the club, Fluminense boasts some of the top talent from the country of Brazil and beyond. Midfielder Deco and forward Fred headline the club’s players coming to Orlando for the friendly.

We are honored to have been invited to participate in this international friendly match and, most importantly, of the new relationship being built with Orlando City,” said Fluminense’s president Peter Siemsen.

The match adds to the list of top-level clubs Orlando has played in the Central Florida area, which includes: English Premier League clubs Newcastle United, Stoke City, Bolton Wanderers and A.S. Roma of Serie A. The ability to draw major franchises from top-level leagues is something Rawlins says is an important factor in Major League Soccer’s considerations of who gains entry into the league.

“Arranging this took a lot of work and several meetings with Fluminense but it once again shows our commitment to bringing the very best in club soccer to Orlando,” Rawlins added.

The Lions announced last Monday that the Rio de Janeiro native Silva invested in Orlando City, funding the club’s share of a private/publicly funded multi-purpose soccer stadium in downtown Orlando and future acquisition of a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise.  The new owner also told those in attendance that his Brazilian contacts with major companies and soccer franchises will be important moving forward, with the Fluminense release displaying just that.

Fans can buy their tickets to the friendly beginning Tuesday, February 26, at 12 p.m. Tickets start at just $15 and can be bought online by going to Ticketmaster.com. Fans can also buy Orlando City 2013 season tickets, which start at just $125. The Lions kick off the regular season at home on Sunday, April 14, at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos. For more information on tickets, fans can call 855-ORL-CITY.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

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Orlando City and Tampa Bay To Hold Exhibition Matches

ORLANDO CITY AND TAMPA BAY TO HOLD EXHIBITION MATCHES

Clubs will play home and away series along with participating in Disney Pro Soccer Classic

 

TAMPA/ ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City SC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies announced today a home and away preseason friendly starting in March of 2013. The first match will be in Orlando at the Florida Citrus Bowl on Saturday, March 9, with the second following on Saturday, March 30 in St. Petersburg at Al Lang Stadium.

The series comes after continuous fan suggestion of creating a strong rivalry between the two franchises. The Lions and Rowdies, both recent champions in the USL PRO and NASL, are top-flight clubs that show the rapid growth of the beautiful game in the sunshine state.

 

The Central Florida Sports Commission has also announced that both clubs will be taking part in Soccer Spring Training and the Disney Pro Soccer Classic tournament. The Disney Pro Soccer Classic will be held at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Feb. 9, 2013 with the tournament culminating in the championship game on Feb. 23. The tournament will feature six Major League Soccer (MLS) teams participating in Spring Training, as well as NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies and USL PRO Regular-Season Champion Orlando City Soccer Club.

 

Orlando City won their second-straight regular season title in 2012 after totaling a franchise-best 17-1-6 (W-L-T) record and 57 points. The Lions have also done major work off the pitch, moving further along in talks of becoming an Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise with a recent announcement of an economic impact study, detailing the effects of bringing a MLS franchise to Central Florida.

 

“We are excited for our fans that have been able to arrange what we hope will be an annual preseason competition with the Rowdies,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “It should be a terrific local derby.”

 

The Rowdies were crowned the 2012 North American Soccer League Champions after winning the NASL Soccer Bowl over Minnesota Stars FC on October 27 at Al Lang Stadium. It was the second time the Rowdies were crowned NASL champions, with the first coming over the Portland Timbers back in 1975. In 2012, the Rowdies won their second consecutive FIFA Fair Play Award and featured the NASL Coach of the Year and three of the NASL Best Eleven players.

 

“The Rowdies are excited to face off against MLS clubs in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic,” said Rowdies President & General Manager Andrew Nestor. “We’re starting the 2013 preseason one month earlier than 2012 to participate in this event and play top competition in order to maintain a championship caliber team. We’re proud to represent NASL in this tournament, and the event against Orlando City will be another great experience for our fans.”

 

Tickets for the first match in Orlando can be purchased now by calling (855) ORL-CITY, while tickets for the second match in Tampa Bay will go on sale at a later date and will be able to be purchased through www.rowdiessoccer.com. Tickets for the Orlando match will not be included as a part of the OCSC season ticket package, but discounts will be available for season ticket holders.

 

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

 

About Tampa Bay Rowdies:

The Tampa Bay Rowdies are a professional soccer club and a member of the North American Soccer League (NASL). The Rowdies home stadium is Al Lang Stadium in downtown St. Petersburg, Fl. The Rowdies were reborn in 2010 and quickly reestablished as a premier club in the United States, winning the NASL Soccer Bowl Championship in 2012. The Rowdies were born in 1975 and were Tampa Bay’s first-ever professional sports franchise. From 1975-1984, the Rowdies were one of the most successful teams in the original NASL, winning the Soccer Bowl Championship in 1975 and reaching the finals in 1978 and 1979. For more information, visit www.rowdiessoccer.com.

 

About CFSC:
The Central Florida Sports Commission strategically solicits, creates and supports marquee sports-related events and businesses that enhance our community’s economy. The Sports Commission represents the counties of Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia, as well as the City of Orlando. The Sports Commission also produces sports-related programs for the residents of Central Florida including the Celebrity Mascot Games, the SPORTYS, Breakfast of Champions and the Daytona Beach Half Marathon. For more information, please visit www.centralfloridasports.org.

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