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Lion Links: 5/10/19

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5 years ago

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What’s up, Mane Landers? It’s going to be a busy weekend with Orlando City, the Orlando Pride, Orlando City B, and the United States Women’s National Team all in action. All three Orlando-based teams will look to bounce back after tough games last week as they head into the summer.

Before we get to the links, let’s wish a happy birthday to Orlando City defender Alex De John, who turns 28 today. Congrats on being another year older. Now, let’s get to the links!

No Worries About Orlando’s Offense

Last Saturday’s 2-0 home loss against Toronto FC was the first time the Lions weren’t able to score a goal in a game this season. While this definitely isn’t good news, let’s not dismiss the fact that this is the first time Orlando was shut out this year. Considering this team was unable to score in six of its final eight games last season, I’d say the offense is far from abysmal. Head Coach James O’Connor agrees, noting that the team is very good at creating chances. Despite the slump that Dom Dwyer is in, O’Connor has constant faith in his attacking players.

“The biggest thing for us is our belief doesn’t waver in the players whether somebody scores or doesn’t score,” added O’Connor. “For us, our belief is always there for the players. Whether somebody scores in the game or misses a chance or doesn’t score in the game. For us, our belief in the players doesn’t fluctuate sort of by game. Our belief is there, we expect them to try really hard and to perform what we’re asking them to do.”

Colmán Waiting For His Opportunity

One member of Orlando’s offense that has yet to make a splash this season is young Paraguayan Josué Colmán, who has yet to start this season. Maybe it’s just a consequence of having many attacking options at the team’s disposal, but having a (Young) Designated Player spend most of their time on the bench raises a few concerns. Regardless, both Colmán and O’Connor are pleased with the work ethic given thus far and, after playing 10 minutes in last week’s loss, Colmán could find his way into more of the offense moving forward.

Pride Come Home to Face Thorns

Still without a win this season, the Orlando Pride sit at the bottom of the National Women’s Soccer League standings as they welcome the Portland Thorns to Orlando City Stadium. While it takes time for a new head coach and team to come together, the pressure is definitely on with almost a quarter of the season played and only one point to show for it.

The Pride have only scored once in five games and will try to win without Alex Morgan, Ali Krieger, Ashlyn Harris, Shelina Zadorsky — all on international duty — and the injured Kristin Edmonds. However, the Thorns will be missing key players as well, with Christine Sinclair, Tobin Heath, Emily Sonnett, Adrianna Franch, and Lindsey Horan all on international duty.

Kopmeyer Hopes to Help Solve Pride’s Puzzling Start

Between television, jigsaw puzzles, and books, Orlando goalkeeper Haley Kopmeyer is finding ways to stay determined and grounded as the team continues its drought. The 28-year-old will play in goal Saturday with Harris away and believes that she and other players will need to step up when some of the bigger names on the team are gone for the World Cup this summer. Kopmeyer is all about moving forward and refusing to dwell on past mistakes as her team searches for its first win of 2019.

Young Lions Return to Texas

Saddle up, because Orlando City B is heading back to Frisco, TX for another game with North Texas SC. In the last meeting between the two teams in April, it was a narrow 1-0 loss for the Young Lions on an own goal, but with the defense improving in each game it is only a matter of time before they win their first game of the season. It will be a tough test, however, as North Texas has won all four of its games this season and hasn’t conceded a goal in its past three matches.

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  • In case you missed it above, Shelina Zadorsky will be away with Canada after being called up for the team’s last game before the World Cup. Although Canada’s World Cup roster won’t be officially announced until later this month, Zadorksy is sure to be a part of the squad.

  • With three games — two of which are on the road in tough environments — in the next seven days for Orlando City, O’Connor is carefully managing minutes, and every player will need to do their part this week.

  • After conceding a baffling 30 goals this season, the New England Revolution decided to part ways with Head Coach Brad Friedel.
  • Professional Mexican soccer club C.D. Don Roge added Gordy Gurson from the Orlando SeaWolves, announcing the move in a tweet that has more sponsors than a NASCAR driver. Gurson is expected back after the team’s summer season.

The U.S. U-17s have moved on to the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Championship.

  • Arsenal and Chelsea will meet in the Europa League final, a day after Tottenham and Liverpool booked their tickets into the Champions League final. This marks the first time ever that all four teams in the European league finals will hail from the same country.
  • That Arsenal and Chelsea match will also be Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech’s final game as he will retire afterwards. It is sure to be an emotional affair for him as he faces his former club.
  • David Beckham was handed a six-month driving ban after someone spotted him driving while using a mobile phone in London. Remember kids, if you’re going to text in a vehicle, make sure it’s in your limo with your chauffeur behind the wheel. Also, shout out to the bloke who snitched on him for doing this — loyalty goes out the window when putting other people’s lives at risk.

That’s all from me, I hope each and every one of you have a safe and fun weekend. Go Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/1/24

Mason Stajduhar was arrested, Orlando Pride play at home tonight, Colin Guske discusses his signing, and more.

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16 hours ago

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May 1, 2024

By

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday and welcome to May, Mane Landers. Don’t forget that the undefeated Orlando Pride are in action tonight, so check back for our match preview and the latest episode of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast for additional pre-match coverage. In the meantime, let’s get to the links.

Mason Stajduhar Arrested Early Sunday

Orlando City goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar and his wife Tatiana Stajduhar were both arrested on disorderly conduct charges following an incident at a nightclub overnight Saturday in the early hours of Sunday morning. The couple were reportedly disrespectful to the club’s staff and got into an altercation with the security guards. Mason stated he was only resisting the security guards to re-enter the club because the bouncers allegedly hit his wife. Tatiana allegedly pushed the police officers after they arrived, and she was not charged with battery on a law enforcement officer. The couple were released Monday after posting a bond. Orlando City provided the following statement to WESH 2 News:

“The Club is aware that goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar was arrested early Sunday morning. We are currently gathering more information and will have no further comment at this time.”

Orlando Pride Host the North Carolina Courage Tonight

After a 3-2 win on the road last Friday against the Washington Spirit, the Orlando Pride are back in the City Beautiful and will take on the North Carolina Courage tonight. Unbeaten in their six games so far this season, the Pride have also won their past three games and sit fourth in the standings. They’re tied on points with a Courage team that beat the Seattle Reign Saturday. Orlando has scored at least one goal in every match this season. Forward Barbra Banda had a great performance in that win against the Spirit, so hopefully the scoring trend continues tonight for the Pride.

Orlando City/Pride Earn Golden Brick Awards

Have you enjoyed the new food options at the stadium? I know I have, and I’m looking forward to trying even more. The efforts made by Orlando City’s front office to feature more local food and beverage options did not go unnoticed, as the club won the Hospitality & Dining category in the Downtown Orlando Partnership’s 2023 Golden Brick Awards. The Orlando Pride’s 2023 Highway Woman Kit also won the award in the Arts & Culture category. The home jersey was inspired by the work of Mary Ann Carroll, the sole woman in the famed Highwaymen artists from decades ago.

Colin Guske Speaks On Signing First Pro Contract

Orlando City Development Academy player Colin Guske signed his first professional contract with the club last month and spoke on the importance of this moment in his career. The 17-year-old is now on an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Orlando City B, and he has started in nearly every game for the Young Lions this year. Both of Guske’s brothers have also played for Orlando City’s academy over the years, and he thanked his family for helping him reach this point.

“It’s awesome to represent the Guskes,” Colin said. “Thanks to my brothers for always pushing me through early mornings and late nights, always putting in the work, doing video sessions, everything. My sister as well, for always being there for me and my parents, too. They’re always helping me and what was the best for me.”

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  • Enjoy all of the sights and sounds from the Pride’s big win over the Spirit in the nation’s capital.
  • The Champions League semifinals are underway and Real Madrid and Bayern Munich played to a 2-2 draw in Germany. The second leg will take place on May 8 in Madrid.

That will do it for today. If you can make it out to the stadium tonight to catch the Pride in action, I strongly suggest you do so. Barbra Banda is about to take the NWSL by storm and you’ll want to see it in person. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links: 4/30/24

Luana’s season ends with Hodgkins Lymphoma diagnosis, San Diego linked with Chucky Lozano, U.S. and Mexico withdraw 2027 World Cup bid, and more.

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2 days ago

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April 30, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride

Happy Tuesday, everyone. It was another busy weekend of Orlando soccer, and things aren’t going to slow down anytime soon. May is an absolutely packed month for all three teams, and the games will be coming thick and fast. We have a lot to discuss this morning, so let’s jump into the links.

Luana Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

This week started off with some very sad news, as the Orlando Pride announced on Monday that midfielder Luana has been placed on the Season-Ending Injury list as a result of her being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The Brazilian international is starting chemotherapy treatments with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. In a statement, Luana thanked both the Brazilian National Team and the Pride for the support she’s been receiving. Seb Hines and Rafaelle also spoke about how the team has been supporting Luana.

San Diego Reportedly Nears Deal for Chucky Lozano

The Athletic’s Tom Bogert has reported that San Diego FC is in advanced talks to sign Chucky Lozano ($) from PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch team is expected to receive a transfer fee in the area of $12 million, and Lozano would likely be the highest-profile player for the expansion team ahead of its maiden Major League Soccer season in 2025. While nothing is official, San Diego is said to be hopeful of getting a deal done before Copa America kicks off this summer.

U.S. and Mexico Withdraw 2027 Women’s World Cup Bid

The United States and Mexico have announced their decision to withdraw a joint bid for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, and instead focus on bidding for the 2031 edition of the tournament. The bid had made it to the final three of the selection process, in addition to a bid from Brazil and a joint effort from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlowe Cone cited a desire to have more time to prepare while also having the opportunity to learn from the experience of the joint effort of hosting the 2026 World Cup. As far as who will host in 2027, the decision will be made on May 17, with Germany having hosted a Women’s World Cup back in 2011, while Brazil would be the first South American nation to host the tournament.

English Premier League Approves Spending Cap

Premier League teams took the first step towards implementing a spending cap on Monday. While a final vote is still needed to ratify the proposed changes, Monday’s vote gave the green light to start the legal and economic studies needed to change to a spending cap model. The proposed cap would be based on how much the lowest earning Premier League team earns from television rights, and could be implemented for the 2025-2026 season. There were 16 teams that voted in favor of continuing the process of moving towards a salary cap, while Chelsea abstained from voting, and Manchester United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa voted against the motion.

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That does it for me this morning. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/29/24

Orlando City and OCB lose to Toronto, Pride beat the Spirit in Washington, EPL title race update, and more.

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3 days ago

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April 29, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers. I hope all is well with you down in Florida. It was a mixed weekend for our teams, with the Pride winning, while Orlando City and OCB lost. I’ve been busy covering high school volleyball, badminton, and soccer throughout the past week. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Lions Lose at Home to Toronto FC

Orlando City SC saw its four-match unbeaten streak come to an end, losing 2-1 to Toronto FC at Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday. Duncan McGuire scored the opening goal to put Orlando ahead in the first half. The Lions held on to the 1-0 lead until late in the second half, when goals from Tyrese Spicer and Prince Owusu put the Reds up 2-1, and they were able to hang on and walk out of Orlando with all three points. Toronto FC has won two in a row in league play and is fourth in the Eastern Conference with 16 points. Meanwhile, the Lions are in 13th with nine points. Orlando City will look to bounce back Saturday at home as it takes on FC Cincinnati.  

Pride Grab Road Win Over Washington Spirit

The Orlando Pride held on to defeat the Washington Spirit 3-2 at Audi Field Friday — their third straight victory. Angelina scored to put the Pride ahead in the first half, but the Spirit equalized just before halftime. Barbra Banda scored her first goal for the Pride, and Summer Yates added her third goal of the season, giving the Pride a 3-1 advantage in the second half. Ashley Hatch pulled one back for the Spirit on a howler by goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, but the Pride keep their unbeaten streak alive at six matches (3-0-3). Orlando remains undefeated and is fourth in the NWSL table with 12 points. Next up for the Pride is a pair of home matches this week, starting Wednesday at home against the North Carolina Courage. Orlando will host Racing Louisville FC Sunday.

OCB Falls at Home to Toronto FC II

Like the first team, Orlando City B also lost 2-1 to Toronto FC II in its first home match at Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions went down early in the match when Charles Sharp scored for Toronto FC II to take a 1-0 lead. Wilfredo Rivera scored the equalizer in the second half to tie the match, however, late in the second half, Jesus Batiz scored the game-winning goal to seal the win for Toronto. The Young Lions have yet to win a match at home, but has played well on the road this season and are on a four-match unbeaten streak away. The Young Lions will face MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference leaders Chattanooga FC Saturday at Finley Stadium. 

Manchester City and Arsenal Win to Keep EPL Title Race Close

The Premier League title race is going down to the wire as Manchester City and Arsenal won their matches over the weekend. Arsenal held on to defeat rival Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 in the North London Derby. That result moves Arsenal into first with 80 points with three matches remaining. Manchester City shut out Nottingham Forest 2-0 and is second, with 79 points and still four matches left to play. Liverpool dropped points to West Ham in a 2-2 draw, putting another blow to the Reds’ title chances and leaving them in third with 75 points and three matches left.  

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  • If you missed it, check out the first goal from Pride forward Barbra Banda.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday and I’ll see you next time.

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