Lion Links: 5/4/16

Today is Cinco de Mayo Eve. Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of the battle in which a small band of Mexican forces, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated French invaders (as opposed to Space Invaders) in the battle of Puebla in 1862. If I've learned anything over the past few years, they promptly celebrated with cheap tequila and bad Mexican beer.

So, in preparation for what is sure to be a day filled with historically accurate representations of Mexican history, I humbly offer this tortilla-wrapped appetizer of Lion Links.

Pride Add to Roster

The Orlando Pride have added another midfielder to their roster by signing Brazilian international Leah Fortune. Though Fortune plays for the Brazilian squad, she actually has dual citizenship, which means that she will not take up an international spot for the Pride. Brad Newton has you covered on this signing, and The Mane Land will keep you covered on all things Pride related.

Bendik Up for Save of the Week…Again

Once again, Joe Bendik is up for MLS Save of the Week, and once again, I have to admit my folly when I questioned OCSC’s decision to bring him on this past off-season. This week, Bendik is up against Real Salt Lake’s Nick Rimando, who actually made a pretty awesome save. With his face. Though, considering Rimando missed the first save, I think Bendik should get my vote. And yours.

In Other Orlando City News

Orlando City has dropped one spot in the MLS Power Rankings and is now at No. 12. According to the article, one of the main reasons for the struggles is the off-season drama. I would argue that the inability to field a healthy XI is a bigger issue, but what do I know?

With the summer transfer window approaching, it’s time to start fielding some rumors, and your Orlando City has already been linked with former Colorado Rapids striker Gabriel Torres. As Wade Williams points out, it’s hard to see how he may fit into the team (barring other moves), but it’s just the first of what are likely to be many rumors in the coming days.

I’d like to go on record and say that Aurélien Collin is likely a pretty awesome guy to drink a beer (or more likely a wine) with. Despite struggling to find the field this year, and ultimately getting dealt to New York just last week, Collin says that he harbors no hard feelings towards his former team.

World Cup Grass Testing

No, this has nothing to do with drug testing. The Qatar World Cup bid has had its share of controversy, what with the allegations of corruption and violations of human rights, as well as the need to move the exhibition to the winter months. If we can set that aside for a second, it's also critical to make sure that the event can support the most basic of necessities: a playing surface. To that end, the organizers are working to ensure that the breed of grass that is used for said surface will be strong enough to withstand the regional climate. Things have not gone smoothly for this tournament so far, but as soccer fans, let's hope that it ultimately goes smoothly without making us feel like terrible people for loving the sport.

That's it for today, kids. I hope your Cuatro de Mayo lives up to all your expectations.