Orlando City Draws Philadelphia Union 3-3 in Preseason Friendly Action

While you were working or at school today, Orlando City drew 3-3 against the Philadelphia Union at the Joe DiMaggio Sports Complex in Clearwater, FL. The match was divided into three 45-minute periods, with the Union jumping on top in each of the first two 45-minute sets, only to see the Lions quickly equalize both times.

Jay Simpson opened the scoring for the Union but Will Johnson tied things up at 1-1 off a cheeky throw-in play, scoring his first goal in purple.

Ilsinho restored Philadelphia’s lead after the second break, but Carlos Rivas blasted home his second goal of the preseason to knot things up at 2-2.

Orlando City took a 3-2 lead prior to the second break on a Cyle Larin goal after the Union misplayed a ball at the back into a turnover. The Lions’ Canadian international striker slotted to give Orlando its first lead of the day, 3-2.

Unfortunately, in the rainy third session the Union were able to equalize on a goal by C.J. Sapong in the home stretch of the third 45 minutes — with about 15 minutes remaining. Since soccer games are only 90 minutes, we’ll go ahead and count this as a win for the good guys.

Following the match, we were informed that defensive midfielder Cristian Higuita’s adductor strain will keep him out about four weeks, which would make him unavailable for the season opener against New York City FC on March 5. Hopefully the young Colombian midfield destroyer will only miss a match or two.

Orlando City is back in action Sunday at 3 p.m. when the Lions square off against Toronto FC at Championsgate.