ORLANDO – Orlando City SC lost to Atlanta United FC 2-0 in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup semifinals in front of a crowd of 18,461 fans at Eploria stadium.
The Lions put up a great fight against their rival from the north, fighting off the Five Stripers 12 first half shots and battling to keep them out of the net.
Atlanta’s Eric Remedi scored in the 37th minute by putting in a rebound off of his blocked shot from deep. Orlando’s Adam Grinwis deftly blocked his initial power shot, but couldn’t get to his second effort.
Atlanta dominated the first half with 61% possession, but Orlando managed to keep their shots out, including thier 6 corner kicks.
“I think, obviously, very disappointed to get beat.” said Orlando Coach James O’Connor “I think when you look at the first half, I just said to the guys, I think we didn’t – first half especially – I didn’t think we really played anywhere near to our capacity. I think the occasion seemed to get to us.”
“I think it was very evident to say second half we had the momentum but needed more quality to create some shots at goal.”
In the 78th minute, Atlanta’s Emerson Hyndman gave them an insurance score for a 2-0 lead
Atlanta managed to stretch out the rest of the match, including Five Stripers goalie Brad Guzan holding the ball on a free kick so long that he was issued a Yellow card.
Orlando fought fatigue during the match, a result of their recent scheduling. Orlando put on a strong performance on Sunday with a 2-0 win over FC Dallas, but the price paid was evident in the off-timed passes and just overall lack of energy of some players.
the Lions next head up to Toronto to face Toronto FC at BMO Field on Saturday August 10th.
