Orlando City’s dismal ending
Lions see their fourth consecutive season without playoff soccer.
HARRISON, N.J. — Orlando City’s long, disappointing season came to an end on Sunday.
Instead of building off a 2-1 victory over Columbus Crew SC, the Lions fell 1-0 to the New York Red Bulls in front of an announced crowd of 20,024 on Sunday at Red Bull Arena. With the win, the Red Bulls clinched the MLS Supporters’ Shield, edging Atlanta United.
It was the sixth time in eight matches Orlando City failed to score a goal.
When Lions coach James O’Connor was asked if he was glad to finally close the 2018 season, he responded, “I am, to be honest with you.
“I think, today, I mean, credit to Red Bulls, I want to congratulate them, obviously going on and doing what they’ve done. From our standpoint, I thought first half, we were in the game. I thought we caused them some problems. Going into the second half, then, we hope we can carry it on. Unfortunately, we give away a soft goal.
“For the vision that we have and what’s going to come and the implementation of change. … I think that’s something that we’re certainly ready for.”
The Red Bulls had a chance to take the lead in the first half after earning a penalty kick in the 14th minute. Midfielder Derrick Etienne Jr. stepped up to take the penalty kick, but his shot was denied by Orlando City goalkeeper Adam Grinwis.
The Lions managed some decent chances in the first half. Orlando City’s best shot at an opening goal came in the 42nd minute. Centerback Shane O’Neill brought the ball up the pitch and fired a shot from distance, forcing Red Bulls goalkeeper Luis Robles into a save.
Right back Scott Sutter headed the rebound to rookie winger Chris Mueller, but the youngster couldn’t get his header on frame.
The two sides went into the break scoreless, but the Red Bulls wouldn’t be denied in the second half.