Defense Comes up Big; Redding Returns
The Orlando City back line was rock solid Wednesday night against a potent Sounders attack.
Defensive midfielders Cristian Higuita and Antonio Nocerino covered virtually every blade of grass at CenturyLink Field; suffocating the midfield area and forcing the likes of Clint Dempsey and Nicolas Lodeiro into difficult situations.
Joe Bendik was excellent for the Lions, too. The Orlando City goalkeeper made his case for MLS Save of the Week in the 59th minute when he denied Clint Demsey’s point blank attempt then scurried to the top of the box to smother the rebound.
Tommy Redding made his return to the Orlando City starting XI after representing USA at the U-20 FIFA World Cup in South Korea earlier this month. The young defender’s raw athleticism and quality decision making were on display as Orlando City stifled countless Seattle counter attacks.
PC Makes Impact off the Bench
Victor “PC” Giro brings an attacking dynamic to the left back position. His speed, quality on the ball, and direct approach puts the opposition under immense pressure. The Brazilian was subbed on against Seattle at the 85th minute mark and immediately changed the game.
Jason Kries clearly gave PC the freedom to bomb down the left flank at any available opportunity. Down a goal, this was the final card the Lions Head Coach would play en route to his team’s emotional equalizer.
After some clever dribbling down the left, PC was fouled by a Sounders defender deep into stoppage time. The ensuing free kick resulted in a goal that would earn Jason Kreis and Orlando City a valuable point on the road.
In the Hunt
Half-way through the season, Orlando City sits fourth place in the MLS Eastern Conference standings. The Lions are five points clear of seventh place Atlanta United; and are in the midst of the Club’s best start to a MLS season.
After barely missing out on MLS Playoff competition last year, Jason Kreis and the Lions are eyeing a playoff spot in 2017. A positive result against the Chicago Fire this Saturday evening would be a massive result for Orlando City to hold their current playoff position in the Eastern Conference.
