In soccer, every team has experienced the indescribable excitement that comes with a last-gasp goal. The joy, relief, and intensity of the moment are evident in the players and fans as they celebrate. Likewise, every team knows the hurt that comes at the expense of such a goal.
Orlando City knows the ups and downs of this season so far all too well, with late-game heroics against NYCFC and Montréal and last-minute heartbreak at the hands of San Jose, a match made all the more emotional by the tragic events the week before.
Defender Kevin Alston was asked about the key to being able to come away with the win in matches down the road.
“This past game, we were just this close,” he said, holding his fingers up only an inch apart. “I think we need to keep pushing and the results will come.”
In training, players and coaches are making those small adjustments to preserve a lead or score a goal when the pressure is on. Coach Adrian Heath addressed the high number of draws on the season.
“It is very frustrating, we should’ve won a good amount of those games, and we need to get more points on the board because it is starting to affect our position on the table.”
Heath has all the confidence in the world in his team going forward. He is also looking to the fans to inspire his players.
“This community is part of the DNA of the team and this only gives us more reason to push forward and win. We have the best support in the league and we owe it to them to have something.”
Orlando City will have a chance to give their fans a win on Saturday night as they host Toronto FC. Match time is scheduled for 7:30 PM.
