Orlando City Takes on Seattle Sounders Reserves Sunday Night

Orlando City first match against MLS Reserve League

squad this Sunday in Tacoma, Washington

After capping off a 7-2 victory Saturday night, Orlando City (5-1-1, 16 points) travels to Tacoma, Washington, to face the Seattle Sounders Reserves on Sunday, May 12, at Cheney Stadium. The game marks the first reserve-league match of the season for the Lions in the 2013 season, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. EST.

The Sounders Reserves are 1-1-1 through three games played in the 2013 MLS Reserve League. Seattle topped the San Jose Earthquakes Reserves 2-1 in their last match at Starfire Stadium, capturing their first win of the Reserve League season. The inter-league match between the Sounders and Lions will count toward each team’s respective league tables as per an agreement made between Major League Soccer (MLS) and USL PRO in the offseason.

The Lions are heading into the week coming off a 7-2 win over visiting Antigua Barracuda FC. The game set franchise records in biggest goal differential (+5) and goals scored (7) in any USL PRO match since the team began play in 2011. Sporting Kansas City loanee and Orlando City SC Forward Dom Dwyer scored his first hat trick in Orlando colors in just 40 minutes, leading the team to the dominant victory.

Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath commented on the striker’s play after the match, saying he is impressed so far with the Cuckfield, England, native’s play.

“Dom’s got a history of scoring goals,” said Heath. “He looks as though he’s going to score every time he plays.”

The Seattle match marks the beginning of a three-game road swing for Orlando, who continues on to play away against the Harrisburg City Islanders and Rochester Rhinos on May 17 and May 18, respectively. The upcoming three road games is the only time the Lions will play a trio of matches away from Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, where they are 4-0-0 in 2013.

Orlando City Completes Homestand Saturday vs. Antigua

First match against Antigua Barracuda FC in 2013 this Saturday in Orlando

Orlando, Fla.— Orlando City (4-1-1, 13 points) hosts Antigua Barracuda FC (0-3-0, 0 points) this Saturday, May 4, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. After Tuesday night’s match was cancelled due to severe weather, Orlando looks toward Saturday as the Lions wrap up their first homestand of the 2013 USL PRO regular season.

Orlando is currently undefeated at home through the beginning of the 2013 USL PRO season, winning all three of their matches played in Central Florida. The Lions have an impressive goal differential of +7 in the three home matches played, scoring 10 goals while only allowing three.

The Antigua match also marks the beginning of matches in the month of May for the Lions, who travel to play the Seattle Sounders Reserves on Sunday, May 12, to kick off a three-game road swing that lasts the majority of the month of May. The Sounders Reserves match is the first of two for Orlando against the Reserve League side, with the game counting in each team’s respective league tables.

The match between Orlando City SC and VSI Tampa Bay FC was cancelled due to severe weather just before 8:30 p.m. Tuesday night. After an hour delay, team and league officials called the game due to an incoming severe weather system that would not allow play to occur. The match will be rescheduled at a future date, which is currently to be determined.

MATCH RECAP: Orlando Blanks Dayton 4-0

Orlando Blanks Dayton 4-0 In Front of Regular-Season Record Crowd

9,589 fans witness Orlando top visiting Dayton, Dwyer notches brace in win

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 3 1 4

Dayton Dutch Lions 0 0 0

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Dennis Chin (Jamie Watson) 28^th

ORL-Dom Dwyer (Rob Valentino 34^th

ORL-Jamie Watson (penalty) 39^th

ORL- Dom Dwyer (Mbengue) 72^nd

ORLANDO, Fla.—Led by three first-half goals, Orlando City (4-1-1, 13 points) handed the visiting Dayton Dutch Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) their first loss of the season 4-0 Saturday night in front of a regular-season record 9,589 fans at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The win gives the Lions a 3-0-0 home record in USL PRO regular season play as Orlando continues their home stand Tuesday night against VSI Tampa Bay.

“It was a very good, professional performance tonight,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I’m proud of the boys.“

Dayton, who won their first two games of the season coming into Orlando, played the Lions tough early on. The Ohio-based side held strong defensive lines as an attempt to disrupt forward movement by Orlando, but as the first half went on the Lions began to find breaks.

After multiple chances by the Lions frontline, Orlando broke through in the 28^th minute with a goal from Forward Dennis Chin. The 2012 USL PRO Scoring Champion, who was making his first start for Orlando in the 2013 regular season, slotted home a score after Midfielder Jamie Watson found the striker in stride past the Dayton backline. Chin chipped the Watson feed up and over Dutch Lions’ Goalkeeper Matt Williams for the 1-0 advantage.

Once the first score occurred, Orlando opened up the match. Defender Rob Valentino found Sporting Kansas City loanee and Forward Dom Dwyer in the box in the 34^th minute, with the former USF Bull finding the back of the net after eluding Dayton’s backline for his fourth goal of the season and 2-0 advantage.

Just five minutes later, Dwyer again found himself in scoring position only for a Dayton defender to trip him inside the 18 yard box, awarding the Lions a penalty kick. Watson, who came into the game leading the league in overall points, calmly converted the attempt in the lower right-hand corner to give the Lions a 3-0 lead heading into the half.

Orlando continued to press in the second half, showing no let-up from the first 45 minutes of play. It was again Dwyer who scored for the Lions, weaving his way past a Dayton defender on the left side of the pitch in the 72^nd minute for his brace and the 4-0 advantage. The 4-0 scoreline tied the franchise’s largest goal differential in a regular season match (+4), with the game ending in the same tally.

Orlando quickly turns their attention to a home match this Tuesday, April 30, against expansion side VSI Tampa Bay. Tampa (3-3-0, 9 points) has won two out of their last three coming into Tuesday night’s match, which marks the first-ever meeting between the two Florida clubs.

The 9,589 fans Saturday night marks the second-straight week in which Orlando City set a regular-season attendance record. The previous week, 9,140 came out to see the Lions top LA 3-2, a record in its own right.

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Sean Kelley, Defenders Bryan Burke, Rob Valentino, Yann Songo’o, Luke Boden, M Kevin Molino (Jonathan Mendoza 76), James O’Connor (Freddie Braun 70), Anthony Pulis, Jamie Watson (Adama Mbengue 72), F Dennis Chin (Long Tan 81), Dom Dwyer (Jean Alexandre 81)

Dayton- GK Matt Williams, D Taylor Lord (Jeremy Cheeseman 83), Greg Preciado, Shintaro Harada, Shane Smith M Joel Delass, Irakli Khutsidze (Tjeed Westdijk 72), Brock Granger, Gibson Bardsley (Joseph Madigan 56), F Brandon Swartzendruber (Remco Klasse 56), Eric Kissinger (Ryan Grothaus 84)

Penalty Summary:

DAY- Joel Delass (Yellow) 47^th

Match Facts:

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

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 9,589

For more information on Tuesday night’s match, 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.

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

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:

MATCH RECAP: Orlando Draws Charlotte 1-1

MATCH RECAP: Orlando Draws Charlotte 1-1,

Moves to Top of League Standings

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 1 0 1

Charlotte Eagles 0 1 1

Scoring Summary:

Orlando- Dom Dwyer (Luke Boden) 8^th

Charlotte- Nathan Thornton (unassisted) 90^th

Lineups/Substitutions:

Orlando City- GK Sean Kelley, D Yann Songo’o, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Rob Valentino, M Anthony Pulis, Freddie Braun, Kevin Molino, Jamie Watson, F Dom Dwyer, Long Tan (Jean Alexandre 61’)

Charlotte- GK Eric Reed, D Fejiro Okiomah, Tyler Newnam, Matthew Gold, Shaun Francis M Nathan Thornton, Sergio Villasenor (Mitchily Waul 41’), Stephen Okai (Christian Meda 27’), Juan Guzman, Samuel Asante, F Christian Ramirez (Stefan Smith 79’)

Penalty Summary:

6’ Sergio Villasenor (Yellow)

26’ Fejiro Okiomah (Yellow)

40’ Freddie Braun (Yellow)

45’ Kevin Molino (Yellow)

45’ Samuel Asante (Yellow)

72’ Shaun Francis (Yellow)

73’ Tyler Newnam (Yellow)

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:00 p.m. EST

Weather: Clear

Orlando Draws Charlotte 1-1, Moves to Top of League Standings

Late Charlotte Goal in 90^th Minute Equalizes Match, Lions Earn Point On The Road

Charlotte, N.C.— Orlando City (3-2-0, 10 points) drew the Charlotte Eagles (1-1-1, 4 points) 1-1 at the Queen Sports Complex in Charlotte, N.C. Tuesday night, moving the Lions to the top of the league standings through five games played. A goal by Dom Dwyer in the 8^th minute put Orlando up early, only for a late equalizer by Eagles’ Midfielder Nathan Thornton in the 90^th minute allowing Charlotte to grab the tie and win from the Lions.

The Lions jumped out to an early lead, with a well-placed corner from Winger Luke Boden finding an unmarked Dom Dwyer in the box for the header and goal in the 8^th minute. Dwyer, who’s currently on loan from Orlando’s Major League Soccer affiliate Sporting Kansas City, whipped his conversion into the back of the net for the 1-0 lead. The goal was Dwyer’s third of the regular season, which ties him for team and league best with Midfielder Jamie Watson.

Orlando continued to create more chances in the first half, along with deterring the Eagles of any scoring opportunities of their own. The scoreline remained at 1-0 to close out the first 45 minutes of play, with a familiar face in goal helping the Lions’ defense keep the score sheet clean.

Orlando Goalkeeper Sean Kelley made his first start of the 2013 season with the Lions for a sidelined Miguel Gallardo and banged-up Jon Kempin. Kelley, who was signed prior to the start of the season, is familiar to Head Coach Adrian Heath’s system, playing for the Lions in 2011 and 2012 as backup to Gallardo.

The Lexington, Ky., native made key saves for the Lions in the first half, including a diving deflection in the 27^th minute. Eagles’ Defender Shaun Francis rocketed a shot outside the 18’ yard only for Kelley to punch it out of danger while extending his arms and diving to his left.

Charlotte came out of halftime with a more active attack, putting pressure on the Orlando backline. After trying to breakthrough, Charlotte capitalized in the closing minutes of play. A long ball by an Eagle defender found Midfielder Nathan Thornton toward goal, with a costly defensive miscommunication, allowing him to weave around Kelley and easily slot home the equalizer in the 90^th minute of play.

The Lions come back home this Saturday, April 27, to play the Dayton Dutch Lions at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Orlando is 2-0-4 (W-L-T) all-time against Dayton, who currently holds a 1-0-0 record through one game played in the young 2013 regular season. For more information on the Saturday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City Faces LA Blues Today!

Orlando City Faces Top-Place LA Blues Today at 7:30 p.m.

Lions look for win over Blues after early season loss on Friday at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando City continues their home stand this Friday, April 19^th, against the LA Blues at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. The two met last week in California, with the Lions upended 1-0 by the upstart Blues on their second road match in three days to begin the regular season.

“We haven’t strung a full 90 together that we’ve all been proud of, but we’re improving,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel that we’re getting into some sort of rhythm and we’re looking forward to the game on Friday.”

The Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) most recently topped Rochester 3-1 at their home opener on Sunday night. Inclement weather caused the game to be delayed nearly two hours, with Dom Dwyer, Long Tan and Jamie Watson scoring for Orlando after the long delay for the win.

LA (3-1-0, 9 points) stands at the top of the table through the early 2013 USL PRO Season. Orlando fell to the Blues last week 1-0 at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. A goal in the 80th minute from former Orlando Striker George Davis IV put LA on top, giving them their first-ever victory over the Lions in franchise history.

Orlando is 2-1-1 all-time against LA, with Heath stating this year’s Blues squad is much improved over last season’s team.

“I told the guys before we played LA the first time that the Blues are going to be a lot better than last year,” Heath added. “The coach and GM are serious football people over there and we expect them to be strong.”

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, with pregame festivities including a concert by local band The Crazy Carls. Friday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com. For more information on Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City Wins Rain-Delayed Home Opener 3-1

Forwards Long Tan, Dom Dwyer, Jamie Watson score in home-opener victory Sunday night

Orlando City began their home schedule in winning style Sunday night, topping the visiting Rochester Rhinos 2-0 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions (2-1-0) and Rhinos (0-2-0) had to withstand a combined two hours of stoppage due to severe weather in the area as Orlando took home their second win of the young 2013 USL PRO season.

“I was confident that if we scored the first goal we’d be ok,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I love playing in the rain because the pace of the game picks up, so besides the wind I thought the conditions were fine.”

A steady rain came down on the field at the start of the game, making for a fast-paced match between the two clubs. In the 13^th minute, Orlando got their first scoring chance of the game as Sporting KC and Orlando City Forward Dom Dwyer found 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino behind the Rochester backline.

Molino’s effort went off the right post after Rhino Goalkeeper Kristian Nicht was lured out of his box due to the danger, with the pressure from Orlando continuing through the beginning of the first half.

But as the rain continued and thunderclouds began to roll in, the match was postponed due to severe weather in the area in the 21^st minute. The break lasted a total of 56 minutes, with the match resuming at 7:24 p.m. only to be postponed again minutes later. The game finally got underway at 8:30 p.m., totalling close to a two-hour delay.

When play finally resumed, Orlando continued their strong pace of passing and possession. Midfielder Jamie Watson nearly capitalized on a chance in the 37^th minute, finding an open lane just outside the 18-yard mark with his attempt just missing the far post. The attacking continued, with it paying off for the Lions in stoppage time of the first 45. After Kevin Molino followed up an attempt from Dwyer, Tan found the rebound – blasting his attempt past Nicht for the 1-0 lead.

The Lions didn’t let up in the beginning of the second half, jumping on the Rochester backline to score the second goal of the game. Winger Bryan Burke placed a well-played cross to a charging Dom Dwyer in the 47^th minute, who easily slotted home his second goal of the season to give Orlando the 2-0 advantage.

Watson continued the scoring for Orlando in the 62^nd minute, cleaning up a loose ball in the Rhinos’ box for the 3-0 advantage. Rochester scored in the 90^th minute of play as Forward Blake Brettschneider lofted his shot up and over Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin. The score was too little, too late, however, with the Lions taking home the victory 3-1.

Orlando continues home play this Friday, April 19^th, against the LA Blues. Orlando has already played the California-based squad this season, falling 1-0 on the road in Fullerton, Calif. Blues’ Forward George Davis scored the lone goal in the 80^th minute for LA, propelling them to the home win. The Lions are 2-1-1 all time against the Blues in four meetings between the two clubs.

For more information on the Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Match Recap: Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Goals by Dwyer, Tan and Molino propel Lions comeback victory in regular season opener

Tempe, Ariz.— Orlando City SC kicked off the 2013 USL PRO season opener in comeback fashion, defeating expansion side Phoenix FC 3-1 at the Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Sunday night. After being down 1-0 in the opening part of the match, the Lions scored three unanswered to take the victory and three points to begin the 2013 regular season.

The match in Tempe began with scoring chances for the Lions, including a free kick resulting from a controversial challenge by Phoenix Goalkeeper Andrew Weber. The former Seattle Sounder took down a charging Dom Dwyer outside the 18-yard box, giving the keeper an early yellow card. The Lions couldn’t connect on the ensuing corner, but kept control early on against the expansion side.

Phoenix responded with attacks of their own, capitalizing in the 16^th minute. Speedy Midfielder Diego Faria caught the Lions sleeping just past the 15 minute mark, beating Goalkeeper and Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin after intercepting a pass from the Orlando backline to give his expansion club an early 1-0 lead.

After the early goal, Orlando settled down in the later part of the first half– nearly capitalizing on multiple chances before finally breaking through in the 35^thminute. Forward Jamie Watson found a clear lane on the right side of the pitch outside the 18-yard mark, with his pass curling in and finding a charging Dom Dwyer in stride. The Sporting loanee headed the ball past Weber, tying the match at 1-1.

The Lions came out in the second half with increased energy and fight, controlling possession for the majority of the second half. Head Coach Adrian Heath made a crucial change in the 63^rd minute, subbing in former DC United Striker Long Tan to push the attack – which is exactly what the Chinese forward did.

After a well-played through ball by 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino, Tan took care of the rest – chipping his attempt up and over Weber to give the Lions the 2-1 advantage.

Orlando wasn’t done scoring, converting their third straight after Molino found space on the righthand side, blasting his shot home to give Orlando the comfortable 3-1 lead in the closing part of the match.

Orlando now heads further west to meet the L.A. Blues for a Wednesday night matchup at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium. The match was originally scheduled for 7 p.m. but has moved back one hour to 8 p.m. EST kick off time. The Blues are 1-1-0 through two games in the young USL PRO season, topping Phoenix 2-0 in the league opener on March 23 before falling to VSI Tampa Bay FC 0-1 on April 2. The match will be live streamed on USLNation.

For more information on Wednesday’s away game in Los Angeles and the upcoming home opener this Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Team adds familiar face as team captain out with injury

ORLANDO—Orlando City SC announced Wednesday that the team has signed former backup Goalkeeper Sean Kelley, pending USSF approval. The move comes as starting Goalkeeper and Team Captain Miguel Gallardo sustained a knee injury in training and will be out 4-6 weeks. The team begins the 2013 USL PRO season away against expansion franchise Phoenix FC on Sunday, April 7 with kickoff set for 10:30 p.m. EST.

“We hope Miguel has a speedy recovery,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “But we are lucky to have Sean with us. He’s been with us and knows the team. It’s a great opportunity for him and it’s good to have him back.“

Kelley is familiar to Heath’s system, signing with the team in 2010 in Austin, Texas, and moving with the franchise to Orlando in 2011. The backup famously came in for Gallardo in the 2011 USL PRO Championship game, making key saves in the penalty shootout against the Harrisburg City Islanders to help secure the league championship. The Kentucky native appeared in four matches for the Lions in 2012, recording an 0.571 Goals Against Average (GAA) and two shutouts.

Kelley, along with new Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin, will have to fill in for the injured Gallardo for the beginning of the 2013 USL PRO season. Gallardo appeared in 21 games for the Lions in 2012, leading the league is GAA (.780) while recording eight clean sheets. The 2011 USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year holds the record for clean sheets in a season with 11 in 2011.

Acquisition: Orlando City SC (USL PRO) Signs Goalkeeper Sean Kelley

Birthday: 04/15/1988

Height: 6’5”

College: George Mason

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

MATCH PREVIEW: Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Orlando Starts 2013 USL PRO Season Against Expansion Club Phoenix FC in Arizona Sunday night

Orlando, Fla.— Orlando City kicks off the 2013 USL PRO on the road Sunday, April 7, in Phoenix against expansion club Phoenix FC at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Kickoff for the game is set for 10:30 p.m. EST as the Lions look to capture their third straight USL PRO regular season title.

“We’ve had a great preseason and I think we’ve gotten progressively better, ” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath after Orlando’s win in St. Petersburg over the Tampa Bay Rowdies Saturday night. “We’re looking forward to having another bit season.”

The Lions begin the regular season with a head of steam after concluding the 2013 preseason, which wrapped up Saturday night as Orlando captured the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against 2012 NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies in St. Petersburg. Orlando scored late to secure the 3-2 win over the Rowdies and 6-4 aggregate overall. Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue and Dom Dwyer all score for the Lions in the win in front of hundreds of City supporters who made the trip down I-4.

Sunday’s opponent, Phoenix FC, is one of two expansion franchises for the 2013 USL PRO season. Phoenix was announced as USL franchise on July 2 of 2012 and is led by Head Coach David Robertson. Robertson played in over 220 first team games for Scotland’s Aberdeen, helping his squad win the Scottish League Cup in 1989 and the Scottish Cup in 1990.

His club defeated fellow expansion side and cross-state VSI Tampa Saturday night 1-0, with Phoenix’s Netinho scoring the only goal of the game, and the first in the club’s history in the Wolves’ first win. Overall the club is 1-1-0 (W-L-T), falling to the LA Blues in the USL PRO opener back on March 23.

For more leading up to Sunday’s game, please visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Training Times:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Off 10-11:15** 10-11:15 ** 10-11:15** 10-11:15**

*Practices are held at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla, and are open to media. Times are subject to change. Please contact Chris Jones (cjones@orlandocitysoccer.com) on confirmed times before attending training.

**times a.m.

Release: Soccer Foundation Aims To Build Soccer Fields In Downtown Orlando

Orlando City Soccer Foundation Aims To Build Soccer Fields In Downtown Orlando

OCSF kicking off 2013 with special initiatives that include Parramore area and player outreach

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando City Soccer Foundation (OCSF) kicks off 2013 with exciting initiatives to give back to the Orlando community through outreach programs and services targeted at children and families, including building two soccer fields in the Parramore area. The soccer fields, which would be lit, outdoor turf pitches, are meant to provide a safe place to play while promoting healthy lifestyles.

“Reaching out to our local community using the powerful platform of sport is imperative,” said Foundation Chair Kay Rawlins. “Our main focus is promoting a healthy lifestyle for children, such as eating healthy and engaging in exercise. The project is important because it will provide a safe place to play for kids in the community while also teaching them about a healthy lifestyle.”

Through an ongoing process with the US Soccer Foundation, OCSF has targeted Parramore, which is located near downtown Orlando. Providing a soccer facility in the neighborhood will offer children a free and safe place to play, and would be the only soccer facility located in the neighborhood. OCSF hopes to announce that funding has been secured by the end of 2013, with construction starting immediately afterwards.

Placing the two soccer-field facility in Parramore serves as a catalyst to other great benefits for the neighborhood. The Foundation will hire coaches and other necessary staff members to help facilitate soccer activities and maintain the fields. These coaches will provide free guidance and tips for children on the field as well as important life skills that they can use off it.

The Foundation plans on fulfilling other civic duties to the community, such as going to local schools and youth groups to advocate staying active and eating healthy. Many players have already partnered with existing non-profits and civic organizations including ROCK, Easter Seals Disability Services and New Image Youth Center (NIYC). Additionally, team members will provide free soccer clinics for children as part of an ongoing relationship with the NIYC.

“This year will be full of promise,” Rawlins added. “We want to start our initiatives in the heart of Parramore, which will hopefully start a trickle effect throughout Orlando. Preparing the children for the future is something that the whole city of Orlando should be involved in.”

OCSF is a 501 ©3 non-profit organization, and is dedicated to fulfilling the charitable objectives of Orlando City SC by providing outreach programs, services and initiatives for individuals and organizations in need. For more information, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Players include 2012 SuperDraft first rounder, two homegrown Kansas City products

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City, announced Thursday that four players from Sporting will join the Lions on permanent loan for the 2013 USL PRO season. The players, who will compete for starting roles immediately, include Forward Dom Dwyer, Midfielder Christian Duke, Defender Yann Songo’o and Goalkeeper Joe Kempin. They will be available for play in Orlando’s upcoming collegiate friendlies and the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against the NASL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies on March 30.

“We are bringing players in who all want to be on the first team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We think that they are going to come in and immediately compete. It’s game on for everybody.“

The four Kansas City products will be on loan for the 2013 season, but can be recalled at any time for Sporting KC responsibilities throughout the year. The players coming to Orlando results from a partnership completed in January of 2013, with the Lions becoming the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC for the 2013 and 2014 seasons.

2012 MLS SuperDraft first round selection and Sporting’s No. 16 pick Dom Dwyer enhances the Orlando City frontline for the 2013 season. The striker played in nine Reserve League matches last year, scoring two goals for Kansas City. Dwyer’s first competitive minutes were in the club’s 3-2 win over the Lions in the 2012 version of the U.S. Open Cup. The Chuckfield, England, native spent time collegiately at the University of South Florida (USF), leading the Bulls with 16 goals and two assists in 21 games played.

Sporting KC Academy product and Midfielder Christian Duke adds to the already competitive midfield group that Orlando City currently fields. The Overland Park, KS, native has been a part of the Sporting KC Academy since June of 2007, attending Shawnee Mission South High School at the same time. Duke then attended the University of San Diego Toreros, becoming a consistent starter for the team. As a senior in 2012, the midfielder started all 23 matches for San Diego, earning All-West Coast Conference Second Team honors while leading the team to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament.

Another Kansas City home grown product joins the Lions in 2013, with Goalkeeper Jon Kempin to fill the backup slot to Miguel Gallardo. Kempin was Sporting’s first-ever home grown Player signing back in 2010, making his professional debut the same season as backup to starter Eric Kronberg. Kempin, similar to Dwyer, played in the 3-2 U.S. Open Cup match win over Orlando City last season. The goalkeeper is an active member of the Under-20 and Under-23 National Team pools, being named to the 20-player roster for U20 training camp in Puebla, Mexico in January 2013.

The final addition to the 2013 squad includes Defender Yann Songo’o. Son of Cameroon National Team Goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o and brother to Portland Timbers Midfielder Frank Songo’o, Yann was signed to the Sporting side this past December. Songo’o represented Cameroon at the 2011 African Youth Championship in South Africa, helping his country reach the final and qualify for the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Orlando continues preseason play against Florida Gulf Coast this Saturday, March 16, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Admission is free to the complex for the friendly. For more information on everything Orlando City, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Completes Comeback Against Tampa Bay

Down 1-0 at half, Lions scored three unanswered to take home the win

Despite being down a goal at halftime, Orlando City rallied back to beat the Tampa Bay Rowdies 3-2 in the first leg of the I-4 Derby sponsored by United World Soccer at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl Saturday night. The Lions scored in the 49^th, 58^th and 70^th minutes and withstood a late score by the Rowdies to complete the comeback victory.

“Our response in the second half was positive, we moved the ball quickly and opened them up,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “The game could’ve been out of sight with the amount of chances we had, but certainly glad of the 3-2 result after being down 1-nil at halftime.“

Orlando put the pressure on the Tampa Bay side early and often, creating chances for the Lions in the first half. Midfielder Jamie Watson was on the end of a few scoring chances in the first 10 minutes, having two shots on goal with one skipping inches left of the post for the Lions.

Tampa got on the board first, however, with a bad giveaway from the Orlando City backline leading to the score. Tampa Bay Forward Amani Walker took advantage of the poor passing by the City backline, slotting home the goal to give the Rowdies a 1-0 lead in the 17^th minute.

City continued to pressure throughout the rest of the first half, with the Lions holding a 12 -2 advantage in shots as the halftime whistle blew with the Rowdies still ahead by one.

Orlando got on the board immediately starting the second half, with Watson converting a corner kick to even the score line at 1-1. New signee Freddie Braun attempted the corner leading to the score, with the midfielder slotting home the goal.

The Lions offensive continued, with another goal coming in the 58^th minute for Orlando. After Forward Long Tan’s strike was deflected back in the middle of the pitch by Tampa Goalkeeper Andrew Fontein, Midfielder James O’Connor half-volleyed the deflection into the lower left-hand corner to give Orlando the 2-1 advantage. Forward Jean Alexandre also got on the scoreboard in the second half, with the striker chipping his breakaway opportunity up and over Fontein for the score and 3-1 lead.

Tampa Bay wasn’t done, with 2011 USL PRO Rookie of the Year Luke Mulholland converting on a free kick in the 75^th to put the Rowdies back in contention. The consistent Orlando attack was too much as the game wore on, with the match ending in a 3-2 victory for the Lions.

The Lions continue the 2013 preseason in a series of collegiate friendlies, starting with University of Stetson this Wednesday, March 13, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Orlando will also meet Florida Gulf Coast, Rollins College and the University of Tampa before the Lions square off against the Rowdies in the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer in St. Petersburg, Fla., at Al Lang Stadium on March 30.

Orlando City Game Summary

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 0 3 3

Tampa Bay Rowdies 1 1 2

Scoring Summary:

(TB)-Amani Walker- 17^th

(ORL)-Jamie Watson- 49^th

(ORL)-James O’Connor-58^th

(ORL)-Jean Alexandre-70^th

(TB)-Luke Mulholland-75^th

Lineups:

Orlando City- Miguel Gallardo, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Oumar Diakhite, Rob Valentino, Adama Mbengue (Jonathan Mendoza-79^th), Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, Jamie Watson, Jean Alexandre, Long Tan

Tampa Bay- Andrew Fontein, Takuya Yamada, Dan Scott (Georgi Hristov-56^th), Jay Needham, Andres Arango (Jordan Gafa-79^th), Raphael Cox, Stuart Campbell, Shane Hill, Luke Mulholland, Amani Walker, Evans Frimpong

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 6,877

For all game information and times of matches, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Match Preview: Orlando Faces Tampa In First-Ever ‘I-4 Derby’ at Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando Faces Tampa In First-Ever ‘I-4 Derby’ at Florida Citrus Bowl

Home leg this Saturday, March 9, at Florida Citrus Bowl with kickoff set for 7:30

Orlando, Fla.- Orlando City SC faces cross-state and 2012 NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies this Saturday, March 9, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla. In the inaugural ‘I-4 Derby’, a home-and-away series between the two clubs, Orlando looks to gain further traction heading into the 2013 USL PRO regular season.

The last time the two clubs met, the Lions defeated the Rowdies 2-0 in the conclusion of the 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic last Saturday. Goals from Midfielder Jamie Watson and Forward Dennis Chin led the way for Orlando. Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo and the City backline held their own against the Rowdies attack, keeping their first clean sheet in the PSC vs. cross-state Tampa.

The Lions have made roster moves since the last meeting against the Rowdies, adding Orlando City U23s Captain Jonathan Mendoza and University of Tampa standout Brian Fekete to the squad. Both had previously been on trial with Orlando before signing with the team. Defender Jerome Mechack was also signed by Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City after spending most of the 2013 preseason on trial.

Tampa Bay comes into the game led by Head Coach Ricky Hill, who heads into his second season with the club. Hill led Tampa Bay to a record of 12-9-7 in the 2012 regular season before making a run in the NASL playoffs, topping Minnesota Stars FC 3-2 on penalty kicks. Lion fans will remember Rowdies standout and Midfielder Luke Mulholland, who won USL PRO Rookie of the Year after notching nine goals and five assists for rival Wilmington Hammerheads in 2011.

The I-4 Derby was announced this past November 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 both top-flight clubs that show the rapid growth of the beautiful game in the sunshine state.

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.

The two sides will meet again on March 30 for the second leg of the derby in St. Petersburg, Fla. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at Al Lang Stadium. The Lions will also continue their preseason against local college teams, including Stetson, Florida Gulf Coast and Rollins College. For the full preseason schedule, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.
Training Schedule:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15**

**times a.m.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Sporting KC Signs Orlando Defender Mechack Jerome

Sporting KC Signs Orlando Defender Mechack Jerome

First transaction between partners Sporting KC and Orlando City has Lions defender going to major leagues

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in conjunction with affiliate and Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City (SKC), announced Thursday that Defender Mechack Jerome has been signed to the major league side for the 2013 season pending receipt of International Transfer Certificate. Spending much of the 2013 preseason on trial with Kansas City, Jerome impressed the Sporting coaching staff enough to garner a call-up from the 2012 USL PRO regular season champion Orlando team to the majors.

“We’re delighted for him,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We have seen his gradual development and are pleased that he has moved on to one of the best clubs in MLS. It’s certainly gratifying for us.”

Jerome was a key part of the Orlando City backline that allowed the fewest goals in the league in 2012. The Haitian international appeared in 20 games last season, scoring one goal while logging three assists. He established himself as a regular in the starting XI, logging 1,423 minutes over the 2012 season. In total, he has made 34 appearances for the Lions in two seasons with the club.

“I’ve always wanted to play in MLS and I am very happy to have signed,” Jerome said. “It’s a group of great guys and a good team. I feel comfortable here already. It was a great experience playing for Orlando City and I am thankful for the opportunity that they gave me by allowing me to come play for Sporting Kansas City.”

The fullback started three out of the four matches for Sporting in the recently completed Disney Pro Soccer Classic, earning praise from SKC Head Coach Peter Vermes in his time with the club.

“He’s a gamer,” Vermes said in a conference call back on February 14. “He is tough in the position. He understands it defensively. He’s very controlled with the ball. He gets the game. He really does. He hasn’t had a lot of time with us, but he’s done well and I like him so far.”

After beginning his career in Haiti with Baltimore de St. Marc, Jerome joined Mirandela of the Portuguese Second Division for the ’09-10 season. He was then acquired by Heath and the Austin Aztex in 2010, moving with the club to Orlando later that year.

The Liancourt, Haiti, native joins Lawerence Olum as former Orlando players who have made the Sporting side after going on trial. Olum appeared 21 times for the Lions in the 2011 season, scoring the opening goal of the 2011 USL PRO Championship match.

About Orlando City Soccer Club: