Orlando City SC scored its first home win at the Orlando Citrus Bowl in commanding fashion in front of a crowd of 40,122 fans on Sunday night, defeating the reigning Major League Soccer Cup Champions LA Galaxy 4-0.
It took them three tries until the Lions finally registered their first MLS home win. After a long wait, their fans had finally something to celebrate. The win launched Orlando up to 5th in the Eastern Conference, while the champion LA Galaxy ended a six game-run without victory in the process.
The Lions went in front in the 12th minute through Eric Avila after a fantastic combination from the Lions deep in Galaxy’s half. Orlando City was dynamic in the attack, supported by the wings Rafael Ramos and Brek Shea providing outlets and service. The Lions went into the halftime break leading 2-0. Rookie Cyle scored on a set-up from Kaka in the 34th minute.
Kaka earned a penalty on a questionable call in the 54th minute after he was brought down in the box, sending Galaxy’s goalkeeper Jaime Penedo the wrong way. Kaka finished the spotkick to make it 3-0. Defensive midfielder Darwin Ceren completed the scoring with 17 minutes remaining with a shot from distance. His long-range strike took a heavy deflection and deceived LA keeper.
An MLS expansion team knocking off a defending MLS Cup champion by more than three goals is a big enough accomplishment that provides some real confidence.
The next match of Orlando City takes place against the San Jose Earthquakes on Sunday, May 24, at Levis Stadium and starts at 7:00 p.m. The Lions return to the Orlando Citrus Bowl on Saturday, May 30, for a match against Columbus Crew SC. Kick-off is set for 7:30 p.m.