Lion Links: 9/29/17

Happy Friday, Mane Landers. I don’t know about you, but I am still reeling from that amazing drubbing of the New England Revolution on Wednesday. I know what you are thinking, is there still a possibility? I would love to go through that with you, like Yoshimar Yotun through the Rev’s defense, but that is for another writer in another story. Today, as always, we bring you the most delicious of links to help get you through the day, and possibly get you fired up for match day tomorrow. Without further ado.

No. 5 Ranking for Cyle Larin

City’s very own Cyle Larin came in ranked fifth in Major League Soccer’s 24 Under 24. He fell a few spots from last year, probably due to the influx of young talent in MLS and possibly to off-field activities. Regardless, this is a great honor for the young striker and shows his hard work is paying off.

Pride are Ready For Playoff Opponents

They have clinched a playoff spot, which was goal number one. Now the focus will be on finishing the season strong and riding a wave of confidence into the playoffs. As it stands right now, Alex Morgan says the squad is confident it has the players and talent to beat any team they will face. There is a small amount of extra pressure, as the NWSL championship will be played in Orlando City Stadium. Coach Tom Sermanni is trying to downplay that motivation as the Pride approach the beginning of the playoffs. Kristen Edmonds is ready.

NASL Lawsuit with USSF Moves Forward

The antitrust lawsuit is looming, and could have implications far more reaching than what is visible on the surface. As a note, this is a different issue than the push by Miami FC and Kingston Stockade owners of the NPSL to force a promotion/relegation system, however, the verdict of this NASL lawsuit could impact how that case is handled. The NASL is upset with being downgraded to Division 3 status by the United States Soccer Federation. This could get a bit ugly and ripple throughout the governing body of U.S. Soccer.

An Essay Worth a Year of Education

Orlando City and Seminole State College teamed up to hand out a year of free in-state tuition for the second year in a row. Di’Last Leyva’s essay was chosen by the panel of judges. You should check out her winning essay on the topic “How does sports shape relationships outside the game?”. Congratulations Di’Last!

First Florida Cup Teams Announced for 2018

The 2018 Florida Cup has released the names of the first three teams that have confirmed a trip to the Sunshine State. The tournament will feature Corinthians from Brazil, Nacional from Colombia, and Rangers from Scotland, with more clubs to be announced.

Free Kicks

• Another big name coach is on the market as Bayern Munich parts ways with Carlo Ancelloti after their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, 3-0.

• Enjoy a list of what some people think are the worst crests in North American soccer.
• The Brazilian Women’s National Team may be in trouble as three very notable names retired suddenly.
• Florida Tropics will kick off their second season of indoor soccer on Nov. 4.
• Finally, since we play FC Dallas tomorrow, here is a band from Dallas that I got to meet in a tiny little club in Pensacola, FL. Hopefully, happiness is exactly what the Lions bring home to us. Enjoy.

That is all for today. Don’t forget that Saturday is an early match, so hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.