Early Watson Goal Leads Lions to Victory

Published on August 3, 2011 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orlando City SC News Release


ORLANDO - Orlando City, already assured a playoff berth, earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over American Division rival Charleston Battery Wednesday night to pull within one point of assuring home field advantage in the opening round of the USL PRO playoffs. Jamie Watson scored the lone goal to lead the Lions to victory.

Like Orlando's previous two bouts with the Battery, the match was physical from the very start. Both sides felt each other out in the opening minutes, looking for the elusive opportunity to break the game open. Just past the quarter-hour mark, Orlando seized their chance.

In the 16th minute Lions midfielder Kevin Molino broke past the Battery back line and moved Charleston's defense to the right side of the goal, leaving open a big gap behind the Battery's backline. Molino found a streaking Jamie Watson in that gap, hitting him in stride, allowing Watson to blast the ball in for his fourth goal of the season.

Watson took some extra time after the goal to celebrate as he was overcome with emotion.

"It was my first goal in a long time," said Watson. "It was just one of those moments where I had to take it all in."

Charleston continued to lack any sort of offensive firepower after halftime, turning to Brandon Massey and Dane Kelley in the 60th minute to provide fresh legs for the Battery. The Orlando defense held their own against the Battery attack, keeping the Charleston substitutes from making any impact on the game. Orlando went on to shut out the Battery in the second half to secure the win and the clean sheet.

Orlando Head Adrian Heath commented on the defensive effort from his players.

"We played a solid game tonight," said Heath. "I felt like we missed on too many opportunities, but we were the better team and deserved the win."

Heath also commented on coming even closer to winning the regular season title.

"We set out to win the championship from day one. I have been saying that all year and nothing has changed that expectation. Winning the regular season crown is big to me, and right now we are only a win away. We just have to take care of business on Saturday."

With the win, Orlando is within one point of clinching a first round home playoff match. City is just one more win away (three points) from hosting every potential playoff game at the Citrus Bowl.

Next up for the Lions is a rematch with the Battery. Orlando and Charleston will square off for the fourth time and possibly final time this season on Saturday at 7:30 pm at the Citrus Bowl. Tickets are still available by calling 855-ORL-CITY (855-675-2489). Orlando City is also monitoring Tropical Storm Emily and will make an announcement Friday if the storm is expected to have an impact on the match.

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