Lion Links: 11/8/16

Happy Election Day, America! If you’re a really smart person, you’ve already avoided the lines by voting early. If, however, you’re like me, you still have to get out and get it done (provided you’re of age, of course).

Anyway, however you’re voting, or if you’re choosing not to exercise that right — which is a valid choice until someone makes it mandatory, in my opinion — good luck today. And that’s about as political as we’re going to get here at The Mane Land, except to say: don’t be hateful — and to remind you that you have more than two choices.

It’s also Tuesday, which means we still have a lot of work week to get through. So let’s get on with those links so you can put off all that work. And since we’re speaking of voting…

Bendik Reaches Final Four

Orlando City goalkeeper Joe Bendik has had a tough road to the final four for Major League Soccer Save of the Year. After all, he’s had to beat himself twice already. But you can still help him reach the championship round by voting for him today. His double save against Sporting Kansas City might not even be his best this year but it still has a shot at the title, so do your part, Mane Landers.

Orlando City to Participate in Scouting Forum

The Lions will be one of three MLS clubs to participate in the 2016 Wyscout Forum in London on Nov. 29. The event bills itself as a worldwide transfer and scouting event, and will be attended by soccer professionals — sporting directors, scouts, agents, and others — from more than 100 countries. Other MLS teams participating include the New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy.

Morris Could Miss Hex Match vs. Mexico

Seattle Sounders star forward Jordan Morris sustained a hamstring injury in Sunday’s second leg Western Conference semifinals match at FC Dallas and might miss the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Mexico and Costa Rica. His status right now is unknown but Jurgen Klinsmann has called in a strong squad to face Mexico on Friday in Columbus and we hope the young Sounders star doesn’t have to miss the match.

Italy Manager Disrespects MLS

Giampiero Ventura gives zero damns about Major League Soccer or how well Sebastian Giovinco has played in the U.S./Canada top flight. Ventura did not select Giovinco to play for Italy despite his dominance in MLS.

"Giovinco is a different story. I have done everything to help him but the reality is that he plays in a league that doesn't count for much," Ventura said. "And the number of goals he scores is less important because with the quality he has got, he is bound to make a difference in that league.

"The problem is that if you play in that type of league, and you get used to playing in that type of league, it becomes a problem of mentality."

Hey Ventura, why don’t you come over here and say that?

RVP Survives Eyesight Scare

Dutch star Robin van Persie suffered an eye injury during a game in the Turkish league that some thought might leave him unable to see again out of his right eye. While playing for Fenerbahce against Akhisar Belediyespor, RVP got caught in a collision and collapsed on the pitch. The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker said he should be fine, however, stating through social media that he tore his eyelid — and doesn’t that sound horrible? — but did not damage his eye.

That’s all I’ve got for you today, Lion Nation. Get out there and vote (for Bendik) and have a great day.