OCB offers MLS players opportunity

A disappointing result still met a larger goal when Orlando City B lost its United Soccer League season opener 1-0 to the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

Yes, OCB wants to win, but its main priority is developing players for the club’s Major League Soccer team. And, eight players with MLS contracts started the match: goalkeeper Earl Edwards, Jr., defenders Kevin Alston, Conor Donovan, Tommy Redding and Victor “PC” Giro, midfielders Danny Deakin and Pierre Da Silva; and forward Richie Laryea.

“The system we play is exactly the same and the expectations are exactly the same, so whether I’m with the MLS or the B team, it doesn’t really matter,” said Deakin, who was Orlando City’s only pick in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.

“It’s always good to get a game in, but the overriding feeling is, ya know, we lost a big game and I’m not happy about it.”

OCB will play its home opener in Orlando City Stadium against Louisville City FC at 7:30 p.m. Thursday.