When Orlando City acquired midfielder Adrian Winter during the summer transfer deadline they saw potential for nights like tonight.
Just three minutes into Sunday night’s tilt against Sporting KC, Adrian Winter notched his first MLS goal. His neatly placed header off a Luke Boden free kick brought the Citrus Bowl to a deafening roar.
Winter commended Boden’s cross, “It was a superb free-kick from Luke.” Boden curled his free-kick toward the back post and the ball was met by a composed and collected Winter to give Orlando City a confident early lead. “Scoring with the header was a great feeling,” Winter added.
Winter scored his second MLS goal in the 72nd minute, connecting with a nifty give-and-go with Lewis Neal to make it 3-1, securing the team’s victory against a very tough Sporting KC side.
When asked about Winter’s performance, Adrian Heath beamed, “There’s more to come from Winter. He had a big night and you can tell he really wants to be here [at Orlando City],” Heath Continues, “[Winter’s two goals] will cement his name in folklore here with the fans.”
The appreciation for Winter was felt all around the stadium when he was applauded off as Eric Avila was substituted on. The Swiss midfielder was determined to prove that he deserves his place in the Lions’ midfield, and he certainly impressed the Orlando City fans with his display tonight.
“It was a very important victory for the team,” Winter exclaimed with a smile, “Every player is important. It’s not important who scored the goals, the Team won the game.”
It was a crucial 3 points for Orlando City as they continue their push toward the playoffs.
