Larin, Kaka, Dwyer Gaining Chemistry
The addition of Dom Dwyer into the Orlando City lineup gives Jason Kreis’ team a new dynamic. Dwyer is capable of playing as a target man up top; he also possesses genuine pace and can get in behind the opposition’s defense. His partnership with Cyle Larin has the potential to blossom into a deadly striking duo.
Using his bullish style of play, Larin is adept at holding the ball and getting it to teammates who are advancing up the field. And, with Kaka pulling the strings in the number 10 role, it is only a matter of time until things start to click up top for the Lions.
Larin set up Kaka’s goal against Atlanta by squaring a pass to the Brazilian -- whose special touch with a soccer ball seems to be permanent. On that very play, Dwyer was lurking just outside the box which occupied the attention of Atlanta defenders, opening up more space for Kaka to unleash his strike.
This is only a glimpse into what the future may hold for the new attacking trio.
Defense Holds Strong
Aside from a minor lapse which led to Atlanta’s stoppage-time equalizer, the Orlando City defense performed well on Saturday.
Scott Sutter had a standout performance at the right back position, while Donny Toia held down the left flank in his typical no-nonsense manner. The back line did well to hold Major League Soccer’s top-scoring team to one, last-minute goal.
City Improving Road Form
Points on the road come at a premium in Major League Soccer; every team in the League takes enormous pride in protecting home field advantage.
Orlando City has now taken four points from its last two road matches (vs. RSL, Atlanta). The Lions will look to build on this positive trend as they travel north to take on the Montreal Impact this Saturday, August 5th.
