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

Orlando City Soccer Club

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER AWARDS EXPANSION TEAM TO ORLANDO
MLS’ 21st 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 21st 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 20th 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 19th 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 18th 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 21st 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

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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

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

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.

ESPN Wide World of Sports

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.

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Preaparing for 2014: Orlando City Signing News

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

Orlando City Soccer

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

Orlando City

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.

 

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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.

 Orlando City

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.

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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 17th 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.

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Orlando City To Host 2013 USL PRO Championship

Orlando City def Riverhounds
Photo by Allison Petro

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.

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.

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

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Orlando City SC Lions Draws Against Dutch Lions

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

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 24th 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 35th 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.

Orlando City SC
Photo : Alex Schierholtz

Dayton’s Shintaro Harada, who was shown a yellow card for a tactical foul in the 42nd 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 59th 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 57th 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 66th 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 89th minute, 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) 24th

DDL- Shintaro Harada (unassisted) 35th

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

DDL- Joel Delass (penalty) 59th

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

DAY- Brandon Swartzendruber (unassisted) 88th

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-42nd (Yellow)

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

DDL- Matthew Williams- 66th (Yellow)

DDL- Brock Granger- 74th (Yellow)

ORL- Rob Valentino- 75th (Yellow)

ORL- Anthony Pulis- 86th (Yellow)

DDL- Tjeerd Westdijk- 90th (Yellow)

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 6:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear

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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Orlando City SC Draw Against Charleston Battery

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

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

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 8th 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 18th 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.

Orlando City Soccer Club

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 56th 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 63rd 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 89th 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) 56th

CRL- Haviel Cordoves (unassisted) 89th

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) 63rd

CRL- Nicholas Paterson (Yellow) 81st

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 4,387

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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Orlando City Continue US Open Cup Play Wednesday #GoCity

Orlando City Soccer - Weekly Review

Lions Take On MLS’ Chicago Fire Wednesday Night

Orlando City SC continues their run in the US Open Cup this Wednesday, June 26, at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill., against Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire in the tournament’s quarterfinals. Kickoff for the game is set for 8:30 p.m. EST and will be livestreamed on Chicago’s YouTube channel.

The Fire have been on a hotstreak as of late in MLS regular season action, remaining undefeated in their last five matches (seven including US Open Cup). Chicago has advanced past the Charlotte Eagles (USL PRO) 2-0 and Columbus Crew (MLS) 2-1 to get to Wednesday’s quarterfinal match.

Chicago, who’s never faced Orlando City in Open Cup play, are 20-0-1 all-time in Open Cup matches in the state of Illinois.

Since 1998, the Fire have won the Open Cup Championship four times- making Chicago one of six teams to capture the title at least four times in the tournament’s 100-year history.

The Lions advanced past MLS affiliate Sporting Kansas City 1-0 in the last round of US Open Cup play, with an early score by Forward Long Tan giving Orlando the lead and win. The win marked the club’s first-ever win over Sporting KC and advancement to the quarterfinal round of the US Open Cup. If the Lions advance past Chicago, Orlando will host the semifinals on Wednesday, August 7, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Orlando previously topped MLS’ Colorado Rapids 3-1 at the Citrus Bowl and the PDL’s Ocala Stampede in the second and third rounds of the knockout tournament. The four Sporting loanees who did not play against Sporting, including Dom Dwyer, Christian Duke, Yann Songo’o and Jon Kempin, will be eligible for the June 26 match against Chicago.

The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States and is open to United States Soccer Federation (USSF) affiliated teams. This year marks the centennial edition of the tournament. This year’s field consisted of 68 teams, the largest field in US Open Cup history.

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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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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Orlando City Capture Win Over Sporting KC

Orlando City
Jamila St. Ann/Sporting KC

Lions Capture 1-0 Win Over 2012 US Open Cup Champs Sporting KC

Orlando downs Major League Soccer affiliate SKC, moves on to Open Cup Quarterfinals

A quick score by Forward Long Tan was all Orlando City SC needed Wednesday night at Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kansas, topping Major League Soccer affiliate (MLS) Sporting Kansas City 1-0. The win advances Orlando to the quarterfinals of the US Open Cup, the first time the Lions have done so in franchise history.

“It’s a really big result and something the players can be proud of,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “All of a sudden we are a couple games from something really special. I’m looking forward to playing the next round opponent.”

Orlando City
Jamila St. Ann/Sporting KC

Orlando didn’t take very long to take the lead, with Forward Long Tan capitalizing on a well-played takeaway from Midfielder Adama Mbengue. In only the 2nd minute of play, the former Orlando City U23s star took possession away from the Sporting KC backline- finding Long Tan in stride behind the Sporting defense. The former DC United striker slotted it past Goalkeeper Eric Kronberg in the bottom-left corner to give the Lions the 1-0 advantage.

Orlando continued to move men forward against the MLS side, who responded with chances of their own throughout the later part of the second half. Sporting KC, holding a 6-5-4 record in MLS regular season play coming into the match, began to produce opportunities as the game went on- whipping in dangerous corners and crosses that kept the Lions humble moving forward. Despite the increasing chances, Orlando weathered the storm to go into the locker room on top 1-0.

Looking for a spark, Sporting subbed in Forward C.J. Sapong at the start of the second half. Sapong led the team in goals with nine last year, pushing the Lions’ backline as they held the 1-0 lead.

Orlando City
Jamila St. Ann/Sporting KC

Despite the added pressure, Lions’ Goalkeeper and Team Captain Miguel Gallardo held steady – making key saves in succession in the 60thminute to keep the Lions ahead. The 2011 USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year came up big as Sporting continued to push forward, leading the Orlando backline that featured second-time starter Justin Clark and veteran Rob Valentino.

Last-minute gasps by Sporting Kansas City in the five minutes of added time kept the game close, but ultimately Orlando prevailed 1-0 over their MLS affiliate.

Orlando City
Jamila St. Ann/Sporting KC

The win marked the club’s first-ever win over Sporting KC and advancement to the quarterfinal round of the US Open Cup. The quarterfinal opponent will be the winner of the Chicago Fire/Columbus Crew match, which was postponed until Thursday due to weather. The match will be held on Wednesday, June 26, at the opponent’s venue. The four Sporting loanees, including Dom Dwyer, Christian Duke, Yann Songo’o and Jon Kempin will be eligible barring a call-up from Kansas City.

The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States and is open to United States Soccer Federation (USSF) affiliated teams. The Open Cup was first held in 1913, with this year marking the centennial edition of the tournament. This year’s field consisted of 68 teams, the largest field in US Open Cup history.

Orlando City Match Recap:

Team                      1    2    Final

Orlando City              1    0    1

Sporting KC               0    0    0

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Long Tan (Adama Mbengue) 2nd

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Miguel Gallardo, D Bryan Burke, Justin Clark (Oumar Diakhite 74”), Rob Valentino, Luke Boden, M James O’Connor, Anthony Pulis, Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue (Freddie Braun 90’), F Long Tan, Dennis Chin (Erik Ustruck 71’)

Sporting KC- GK Eric Kronberg, D Kevin Ellis, Aurelien Collin, Ike Opara, Seth Sinovic, M Benny Feilhaber (Lawrence Olum 58’), Oriol Rosell, Paulo Nagamura, Josh Gardner (C.J. Sapong 46’) F Jacob Peterson (Teal Bunbury 76’), Claudio Bieler

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Anthony Pulis (Yellow) 71’

 Match Facts:

Time of Match: 8:30 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 15,981

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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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 SC Advance to Third Round of US Open Cup

Orlando City Lions Advance To Third Round

of US Open Cup, Top PDL’s Ocala 2-1

Orlando City

Club to host Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids on Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Behind one goal in the first and second halves, Orlando City SC advanced past the PDL’s Ocala Stampede 2-1 Tuesday night in Ocala, Fla., at Forest High School. With the win, the Lions will host Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Colorado Rapids next Tuesday, May 28, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

“I thought our first half performance was very good,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We gifted them (Ocala) a goal in the second half and let them back in the game. But at the end of the day we bring the Rapids to Orlando next week and it will be a good game for us.”

Orlando City

The Lions came out on the attack to begin the match, with league-leading scorer Dom Dwyer nearly converting chances early on, including a bicycle kick in the 20th minute of play. The Sporting Kansas City loanee and the Lions frontline continued to press, with it paying off just past the halfway point of the first half.

After an Ocala throw-in, Defender Erik Ustruck took away control from the Stampede, passing his attempt into the box where an Ocala defender knocked a deflection to Dwyer. The striker then lobbed the deflection up and over Goalkeeper Lex Craggs, putting Orlando up 1-0.

Orlando City

Just after the second half began, the Lions went up 2-0 after an Adama Mbengue strike in the 50th minute. The midfielder found space just inside the 18-yard box, blasting a low strike past the Ocala defense and into the lower-right corner for the two-goal advantage. 

Ocala responded with a goal of their own in the 58th minute, with Midfielder Christian Blandon converting a score after Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin made two diving saves in a penalty situation. The Stampede were awarded a penalty after Kempin took down an Ocala striker inside the box, with the Sporting KC loanee making two saves initially- only for Blandon to secure the follow up and cut the lead down to 2-1.

Orlando City

Orlando regained composure after the goal, retaining possession while getting multiple chances at a third score. The last part of the match was a back and forth affair, with the Lions ultimately holding strong and ending the match with the victory.

The club plays one regular season match on Saturday, May 25, vs. the Wilmington Hammerheads before hosting the Rapids in the third round of Open Cup playTuesday night at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Tuesday’s game marks the first time Orlando has hosted an MLS team at home in the knockout tournament, with the Lions traveling to opponent’s venues in the third round of the past two seasons.

Tickets will be available on www.Orlandocitysoccer.com/tickets. For more information on the upcoming matches, please visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

OrlandoCitySocer

Orlando City/Ocala Stampede Match Recap

Photos: Orlando City SC

Team                           1    2    Final

Orlando City SC                1    1    2

Ocala Stampede                 0    1    1

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dom Dwyer  (unassisted) 27th

ORL- Adama Mbengue (unassisted) 50th

OCA- Christian Blandon (unassisted) 58th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Jon Kempin, D Erik Ustruck, Justin Clark, Oumar Diakhite, Brian Fekete, M Jonathan Mendoza, Adama Mbengue, Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, F Dom Dwyer (Dennis Chin 46’), Jean Alexandre (Long Tan 66’)

Ocala Stampede- GK Lex Craggs, D David Kamali, Liam Gourlay, Rafael Alves (Jack Bailey 84’), Samuel Duininck, M Stephen Walmsley, William Tice (Kevin Ireland 70’) , Christian Blandon, Wayne Roberts (Kely Breitmeyer 46’), F Amany Nunes, Kenneth Hogg  

Penalty Summary:

ORL- Adama Mbengue (Yellow) 37th

ORL- Freddie Braun (Yellow) 77th

OCA– Samuel Duininck (Yellow) 87th

ORL-Erik Ustruck (Yellow) 90th

Match Facts:

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Weather:  Cloudy

Attendance: 1,030

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