Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com
Saturday, July 16, 2011
ORLANDO, Fla. – Matt Luzunaris and Lewis Neal scored three minutes apart late in the first half as the Lions defeated the Rochester Rhinos 2-1 in a match that was delayed for 75 minutes due to lightning. Coming back from an early deficit, Orlando was able to rally strongly as 4,758 fans cheered them on faithfully in the midst of a lightning storm.
“Obviously when they scored the first goal we were down, but we came back and had high energy and everyone worked hard together,” said Orlando forward Max Griffin. “This win is huge. It gives us a chance to solidify our spot and gain a special advantage.”
Rochester pressed early and took the lead in the 15th minute through Tony Donatelli. Rhinos midfielder Alfonso Motagalvan took a corner kick from the right that sailed over the Orlando City defense and landed at the feet of Donatelli who blasted a volley that sailed past the hands of Orlando goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo.
Orlando made two substitutions early in the first half when Erik Ustruck and Lawrence Olum were pulled due to minor injuries, but the Lions began to discover their rhythm as both Griffin and Luzunaris had chances from good crosses. Orlando also began to take increased control of the midfield and came close to an exhilarating equalizer when Jerome took a booming shot from over 30 yards out that struck the upper right post.
Orlando City did tie the game in the 38th minute when Jack Traynor made a textbook cross that soared over the Rhinos defense and found the head of Luzunaris. The former University of Central Florida standout, on loan from Major League Soccer's San Jose Earthquakes, was able to jump at exactly the right moment to send the ball crashing into the net and over the diving hands of Rochester goalkeeper Neal Kitson.
The Lions then took the lead in the 41st minute through Neal. After receiving a free kick right outside the penalty area, Neal struck the ball into the left corner of the net completely untouched. The Lions exploded with celebration and were able to carry the lead into the half.
With the Lions eager to add to their lead, and the Rhinos wanting a way back into the game, the second half started with aggressive play from both teams. Unfortunately, the match came to a halt when an intense lightning storm swept across Orlando. The game was delayed in the 67th minute for 75 minutes before the teams took the field again.
Despite slick conditions on the field, Orlando City was still able to pass well and maintain good possession. The last 10 minutes of the match proved to be a battle as the Lions played very defensively, keeping only Max Griffin at the high forward position. The Rhinos desperately tried to even the score with two dangerous corner kicks within the last five minutes, but were unable to capitalize due to Orlando’s excellent defense and multiple diving saves by Gallardo.
There is no rest for the Lions as the 2011 Premier League Challenge begins on Sunday with the visit of Bolton Wanderers to the Florida Citrus Bowl at 7:30 p.m. Then next Saturday Newcastle United comes to Orlando to take on the Lions. Tickets for both matches are still available, starting at just $25. Call 855-ORL-CITY (855-675-2489) for more information or to order tickets today.