Orlando became the first MLS team to win four straight games to open a new stadium thanks to Cyle Larin’s stoppage-time winner. Captain Will Johnson had his best day in purple, scoring a stunning opening goal and assisting the winner.
Orlando City left it late on Saturday in route to their fourth win of the season, all of which have come within the friendly confines of Orlando City Stadium. The Galaxy were hoping to escape with a gritty road point after Romain Alessandrini rifled in an equalizer in the 83rd minute. However, the Lions continued to fight and Cyle Larin delighted the home crowd when he volleyed home Will Johnson’s corner kick in stoppage time to win 2-1. Here are the takeaways from the match:
Your Starting XI for today's #ORLvLA match. #NeverHuntAlone pic.twitter.com/ELFKAQ3IJO
— x - Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) April 15, 2017
Will Johnson has provided solid leadership in Kaká’s absence
When Orlando’s captain suffered a hamstring injury in the opening game, Orlando fans had reason to be concerned about who would step up in his absence. Kaká has collected a number of awards for his remarkable play over the years, including the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year in 2007. Just as important as his technical ability has been his leadership on the field.
Will Johnson was handed the captain’s armband following Kaká’s injury and has lived up to the billing. Johnson has 10 years of MLS play under his belt, providing much needed experience. Furthermore, Johnson’s relentless style of play and versatility, evidenced by his impressive performance at right back in the win for New York City FC, has made him the heartbeat of the team’s gritty performances.
Guys, Wild Man Will is somewhere still hype about yesterday. #NeverHuntAlone pic.twitter.com/E6tmdHmlmq
— x - Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) April 16, 2017
Joe Bendik continues to come up big
Orlando’s defense gave up the most goals in the league last season, and, whether deservedly or not, a portion of the blame was placed on the play of goalkeeper Joe Bendik. The 2017 campaign has been a remarkable turnaround for the Orlando defense, allowing only 4 goals in the side’s opening five matches.
Alongside the outstanding play of Jonathan Spector, Bendik has been a revelation between the sticks. In his second season in central Florida Bendik has come up big time and time again when his team needs a save to keep a match scoreless or to maintain a slim lead. Week 1 saw Bendik collect Save of the Week honors and he made five saves on Saturday, including this gem late in the game.
https://twitter.com/OrlandoCitySC/status/853346852183396352
While the season is young, it’s hard to question Orlando’s winning mentality
After five matches Orlando sits in second place in the Eastern conference with 12 points. In comparison, it took the men in purple eleven matches to gain 12 points in the 2016 season.
Although the season is very young, Orlando City seems to possess a different mentality in how they’ve been able to grind out results. Coach Jason Kreis has noted that the team’s overall effort has been phenomenal. He has also stressed the camaraderie on display up to this point, which could very well lead the side to the first playoff appearance in franchise history.
Highlights
Next: MLS: Top Goals From Week 7
Orlando City will meet NYCFC for the second time this season on Sunday.