Match Preview: Orlando to Play Final USL PRO Home Opener on Saturday

Published on March 27, 2014 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orlando City SC News Release


Orlando, Fla. - Orlando City SC kicks off their final USL PRO home opener at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, as they welcome the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, March 29. The match will kick-off at 7:30 p.m.

"We're delighted to play in-front of our fans this weekend and we'll be looking to come out of the gate strong," said Head Coach Adrian Heath on the home-opener. "Pittsburgh is a good side and we know that we have a bigger target on our backs this year, but we'll be up for it."

The WWOS complex will serve as a temporary one-year home for the Lions and has increased capacity to allow approximately 5,500 fans to attend City's home matches this season.

After starting the season on the road in South Carolina with a 1-1 draw against the Battery, the Lions will look for their first win of the season. Newly signed Midfielder Austin da Luz looked sharp in his debut with Orlando, recording the team's first goal of the 2014 campaign.

"The fans that made the trip to Charleston were unbelievable," da Luz said ahead of Saturday's matchup with Pittsburgh. "I can't imagine what the home opener is going to be like. I think it's going to be a great opportunity for us to get our first win."

Defender Rob Valentino should be ready to go for the home opener this weekend. Valentino and Rusin looked to be a formidable partnership during the Pro Soccer Classic, as the Lions only conceded two goals in the two games Valentino and Rusin played together.

However, during the off-season Pittsburgh added even more attacking firepower to their core lineup and will provide a solid test for the City backline. After resigning lethal Striker Jose Angulo, who recorded 13 goals last season, the Riverhounds also added former Fulham and Chicago Fire Forward Collins John. Pittsburgh's squad also includes three loanees from MLS affiliate Houston Dynamo.

During the 2013 season the Lions went 1-1-1 against the Riverhounds, but defeated them in the USL PRO quarterfinals en route to City's third USL PRO Championship.

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