Victory evaded the Lions on Wednesday night in a hard fought draw against the Earthquakes. Orlando City may have done enough to deserve the full three points but, overall, will be pleased with a point and eager to return to Orlando City Stadium for Sunday’s clash against NYCFC.
“Just really appreciative of the guys' efforts,” said Jason Kreis after the match. “[I] said before the game that the objective for us was pretty clear. We needed to defend better and I felt like we did that. Obviously, we hate to concede the goal and it would've been nice to walk out of here with a shutout, but it comes off a dead ball so that's a matter of organization that we didn't quite get settled.” Earthquakes striker Chris Wondolowski scored a classic poacher’s goal in the 83rd minute off a scrappy corner kick which, aside from a direct free kick attempt in the first half, was San Jose’s only clear cut scoring opportunity of the match.
MLS debutant defenders Victor “PC” Giro and Leonardo Pereira
shut down the left side of the pitch
for the Lions and limited the ‘Quakes to minimal chances created on that flank. Scott Sutter and Jose Aja were both solid as well, commanding the right side of defense with their physical prowess and calm demeanor on the ball. Joe Bendik had a relatively quiet night but was called into action in the 25th minute with a fingertip save off of a dipping free kick by San Jose’s Jahmir Hyka.
The game changed from an attacking standpoint when Kaka and Carlos Rivas entered the match in the 63rd minute. Rivas netted the Lions only goal off a PC cross that was begging to be struck first time – and the Colombian did so with pristine accuracy into the bottom corner. Orlando City had more possession and outshot San Jose 18 to 11 but only managed to finish the one goal. Kaka had a glorious chance to steal three points on the road but his 1-on-1 effort was denied by the ‘Quakes David Bingham in stoppage time.
Head Coach Jason Kreis was asked about Rivas’ impact off the bench in his postgame interview. “We're pleased that he comes in and gets to contribute to scoring another goal, as well as some other really nice passes and play with the pass that he played for Ricky [Kaká] to go one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Pleased with all the guys. Pleased with the guys that started the match. Pleased with the guys that came off the bench.”
Orlando City’s
squad depth is a vital asset
considering the congested MLS schedule. Three matches in eight days is tough for any team but Kreis’ trust in his reserve players has put the team in a favorable position entering Sunday’s home match.
The Lions have beaten NYCFC twice already this season and Jason Kreis will look to field an exceptionally strong team on Sunday to make it 3-0 on the season against his former club.
