Champion Lions Close Regular Season Against Harrisburg Friday

Published on August 11, 2011 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orlando City SC News Release


ORLANDO - The Orlando City Lions clinched the USL PRO regular season title last Saturday, but still have one game remaining before the playoffs. The Harrisburg City Islanders come to the Citrus Bowl on Friday night for the final match of the inaugural campaign. Kickoff is set for 7:30 pm.

With their spot and seed already locked in, Head Coach Adrian Heath has the advantage of both resting key starters and finding just how prepared his deep bench is for the playoffs. Role players Wes Allen, Charlie Campbell, and Dennis Chin will all start for Lions. Chin in particular has been making his case for more minutes in recent weeks, and will have a chance to prove he belongs in the starting line-up with a strong performance against Harrisburg.

Mainstays Lawrence Olum and Erik Ustruck also return to the line-up after suffering injuries in the Bolton friendly. Both players were available last week, but were held out to rest up for the postseason. Friday's match gives the two versatile players a chance to stretch their legs and regain full match fitness ahead of the August 20 playoff opener.

The Lions and Islanders have met just once this season. Orlando defeated Harrisburg 3-1 in the May 22 road match, but it was not without drama. After scoring on a Demar Stewart in the opening 90 seconds, the Lions controlled the game. All of a sudden, in the 80th minute, Harrisburg found a late spark and equalized. Undeterred, the Lions responded with a late goal of their own just before the end of regulation. Lewis Neal added a penalty kick goal in stoppage time to seal the win.

Much has changed since late May. Harrisburg, then the struggling side, is now tied for the National Division lead with Rochester. Their victory last night in Charlotte kept the fourth and final playoff spot in the American Division open, meaning Orlando City will not know their first playoff opponent until they finish Friday's match.

With both squads in good form, Friday's match expects to be a case of who will blink first. It will not be one to miss. Those that cannot make it down to the Citrus Bowl can still catch the game on Brighthouse Sports Network. Tickets are still available for the match, and can be purchased by calling 855-ORL-CITY. Tickets start at just $12.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 11, 2011


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