ORLANDO, Fla. – Jan. 8, 2016 – Orlando City SC will begin its 2016 preseason campaign with a competitive fixture against North American Soccer League (NASL) club Jacksonville Armada FC on Saturday, Feb. 13, as the Lions begin preparing for its second Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Additional details for the remainder of the Lions’ preseason fixtures will be announced shortly.
Kickoff for the Feb. 13 match is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET at Community First Park in Jacksonville, Fla. Fans can visit www.armadafc.com for ticket information.
“The Armada are a solid team who will provide a strong test for us as we begin preparing for the 2016 season,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “Obviously we’re very familiar with their team as several members are former Orlando City players. But more importantly, we’re looking forward to beginning 2016 on a strong note heading into the new MLS season.”
The contest marks the first-ever match between Orlando City and Armada FC, who are also coming off an expansion campaign.
In the team’s inaugural NASL season, the Armada finished sixth place in the Fall campaign and 11th in the Spring, resulting in 11th place overall in the NASL. Forward Alhassane Keita led the team in goals with seven finishes in 2015.
Coached by former U.S. Men’s National Team goalkeeper Tony Meola, the Armada’s roster is comprised with several former Orlando City players, including goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo, defenders Bryan Burke and Mechack Jérôme. Orlando City also selected forward Akeil Barrett in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft.
