In terms of excitement and drama, the USL couldn't have asked for much more from a championship game as red cards, late equalizers and a penalty kick shootout highlighted Orlando City's victory over the Harrisburg City Islanders to take the USL Pro title in front of their home fans.
After a relatively quiet first half, the game was sparked into life with the ejection of Orlando City's starting goalkeeper, Miguel Gallardo. The Mexican native brought down Harrisburg's Sainey Touray outside the box but was sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Gallardo was replaced by Sean Kelley, who would be called upon multiple times throughout the game.
Despite a plethora of chances, the contest remained scoreless for nearly all of regulation until Orlando City snatched a goal in the 89th minute. Lawrence Olum took advantage of Lewis Neal's slow, dribbling cut back to slot home what appeared to be a dramatic winner. However, the Islanders desperate rush forward in the dying minutes allowed J.T. Noone to head home a corner kick in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
Harrisburg took advantage of its man advantage five minutes into overtime as Touray beat Kelly to his near post to give the Islanders the lead. However, Orlando was able to equalize when Geoff Bloes was sent off after he brought down Dennis Chin inside the box. Neal made no mistake from the spot and the game went to penalty kicks.
Kelley saved Harrisburg's first two penalties and Touray sent the Islanders' fifth penalty kick wide left of the post and Orlando grabbed the championship on the back of a 3-2 penalty shootout victory. Orlando celebrates both the regular-season title and the league championship.
Here are some highlights from the crazy and entertaining match.
What did you think of the result? Are Orlando City worthy champions? Disappointed that Harrisburg couldn't pull out a victory? Are you going to check out the USL Pro next season?
Share your thoughts below.
