Two of the big names in the battle between Orlando City SC and the LA Galaxy traded excellent goals Saturday in a thrilling 2-1 victory for Orlando City.
Orlando City went up 1-0 in the first half thanks to Will Johnson, and maintained that advantage through much of the contest. However, the visiting Galaxy pushed hard for an equalizer as the second half went on, and were finally rewarded for their efforts in the 83rd minute.
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Jermaine Jones struck a well-hit long ball that found Romain Alessandrini in the attacking third. The winger created enough space to hit a low blast into the bottom corner to level matters at 1-1.
And there's the equalizer for @LAGalaxy!
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) April 15, 2017
Romain Alessandrini has his 4th goal in four games. #ORLvLA https://t.co/PYaNZCLkNy
Alessandrini and Jones had nearly combined for a goal minutes earlier, but the French midfielder was unable to keep his chance down when put in alone by Jones.
That looked like it would be good enough to get the Galaxy a road point. But Orlando City striker Cyle Larin would have the last say as he managed to get position on a corner and, while falling down, volley it into the roof of the net.
Stunner! @CyleLarin volleys home a game-winner for @OrlandoCitySC. #ORLvLA https://t.co/yHm4KWFBTy
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) April 15, 2017
That would prove the difference as Orlando City maintained its perfect home record to start the 2017 MLS season with the 2-1 win.