In a match that lasted nearly five hours from scheduled start to finish, Orlando City supporters stuck together during constant rain and lightning to help cheer their beloved Lions to a hard fought draw. Lions Goalkeeper Tally Hall wasn’t surprised about the fans’ extended support. “Nothing surprises me with these fans anymore. They are absolutely crazy, and I love them. They waited a long time to see that game; the fans’ support is unparalleled. It’s crazy.”
During his post-game press conference, Coach Adrian Heath had a similar sentiment to that of Tally Hall’s, “Our fans were incredible again…I imagine they are all as wet as I have been this evening. It was an incredible show for the supporters and as I always say, their support never ceases to amaze me. Their support was absolutely magnificent again this evening.”
While fans were waiting during the inclement weather, players were also forced to stay mentally focused and fresh during the delays. Players had to stay loose by continually stretching and dribbling balls in order to stay fresh during the duration of the break. Lion’s right back Corey Ashe emphasized how the team has to react during long delays. “You have to deal with it. It’s a part of the game and you can’t control the weather. It is what it is.”
It was a match that undeniably showed the fight of the Lion’s, and the will of the supporters. The Lion’s hard fought draw against the Fire places Orlando City in 6th place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Lions play on the road next Saturday night against the New England Revolution.
