By: Trevon Purdie
Orlando City SC secured its second consecutive win on Saturday night as it took a 1-0 victory against the Charleston Battery at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. In his debut appearance, former FC Dallas player Brian Span scored his first goal for the team and that put City into first place in USL PRO.
“Overall I’m pleased with the win, and I’m pleased that Cobi [Span] got a goal because he’s been working very hard in training." said Head Coach Adrian Heath.
The beginning of this started how Orlando City usually starts its' games, with the team dominating the game in terms of possessions. In the 12th minute, Orlando City got fans out of their seats when Austin da Luz kicked a beautiful pass to Forward Corey Hertzog, but the Forward failed to obtain his first goal since becoming a Lion.
Although Orlando City controlled the ball most of the game, the Charleston Battery had fans biting their nails on a few close goal situations, but GoalKeeper Miguel Gallardo and the Lion's defense were able to keep the fans confident.
In the second half, Coach Heath moved to a more aggressive attack when he put in the fresh legs of Span, Adama Mbenque, and Dennis Chin. Within 15 minutes of the half Span scored his first goal for Orlando City, since joining the team earlier this month on loan from MLS' F.C. Dallas.
With a second victory secured, Orlando has momentum heading into their two-game road trip. Next week, the Lions will take on the F.C. Dallas Reserves on Tuesday night, and OKC Energy FC on Saturday, April 26. Charleston returns home next Friday night to host the New York Red Bulls Reserves at Blackbaud Stadium.