Lion Links: 3/20/16

Happy Sunday, Mane Landers! Welcome to another edition of the Lion Links. You will be reading more on Cyle Larin’s hot streak and the USMNT U-23 roster for the Olympics while there is injury news for a USMNT member.

Alex Morgan, Orlando Pride Open Preseason Play in Style

The Orlando Pride got their Preseason schedule underway with an 8-0 thrashing of Eastern Florida State College at the Titan Sports Complex. Alex Morgan scored four goals in the first half and the team led 7-0 at the break. Morgan and the rest of the Pride players will look to build on this impressive start as they continue to prepare for their April 17 opener versus the Portland Thorns.

OCB Falls in Final Preseason Game

The Orlando City reserve team battled the elements and Eastern Florida State College at the Titan Sports Complex before falling 1-0 in its final Preseason game. Despite creating chances in both halves, the Lions couldn't put the ball in the back of the net. Designated Player Bryan Róchez and seventh-overall draft pick Richie Laryea put in solid performances and Head Coach Anthony Pulis was "pleased" with the overall performance, saying: "But I thought our performance today was really good — second half especially, we moved the ball really well." OCB opens its regular season next Saturday night against the Wilmington Hammerheads in Melbourne.

Ambitious expectations for Cyle Larin

Following his third goal in three matches of the MLS campaign, expectations on the Canadian striker are becoming more and more demanding. Orlando City’s coach, Adrian Heath, said that he his expecting that Larin scores 20 goals this season as he is becoming increasingly responsible for his own game while earning more experiences match after match. Moreover, his physical aspect makes sure that he becomes one of the strongest strikers in MLS. In the meantime, enjoy yesterday’s goal once again! I guess you like the celebration, right?

USMNT U-23 roster announced for the Olympic playoff against rivals Colombia

Head Coach Andi Herzog has announced his U-23 roster for the tough contest against Colombia, valid for the Olympic playoff. There are some surprises as neither Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic and Rangers’ Gedion Zelalem are on the roster while Rubio Rubin is still unavailable due to an injury. Moreover, DeAndre Yedlin and John Brooks were not called up, assuming that they will be receiving a call-up from Jurgen Klinsmann. Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders‘ star Jordan Morris has been called up to lead the front line.

Fabian Johnson hit with a possible long-term injury

USMNT's member Fabian Johnson has been hit by an injury which could result in a long-term absence. However, his German club, Borussia Monchengladbach has announced that currently there is no fresh news about his situation. An unfortunate scenario for Johnson, as unarguably he is going through one of his best forms since embarking on the European continent.

Aston Villa lose again…due to Brad Guzan's howler

With Tim Howard leaving the English Premier League, Brad Guzan is the only U.S. goalkeeper left in England's top tier, and to be fair, he is not honouring well that record. Aston Villa are on the brink of a relegation in the Championship and they have not been playing well throughout this season, however, they have not been helped either by their last man at the back.