ORLANDO – After giving up an equalizer, Orlando City SC almost instantly equalized to claim a derby 2-1 win over Inter Miami CF at Exploria Stadium on Saturday night.
The Lions got the opener in the 34th minute thanks to an own goal from Andres Reyes, who redirected Mauricio Pereya’s free-kick. The ball was sent in from the left, and in Reyes’ effort to clear, he could only send it into his own net.
That would be all the scoring in the first half, but in the 65th minute, Miami got on the board. Rodolfo Pizarro swung it into the box and found Brek Shea, who headed it home.
Just four minutes later, Orlando had what would turn out to be the game-winner. Chris Mueller drew the Herron’s defensive attention, which allowed him to set up Mauricio Pereyra. Pereyra struck form the edge of the area, sending it into the back of the net off the post.
I think we had opportunities to react. When we did that, we scored the second goal, and then after it was just about the derby. It was a game about two teams who are defending the state and what it means for us in beating Miami; it’s great, so we want to dedicate this to the fans. We know how happy they are.
Orlando City SC Head Coach, Oscar Pareja
It could have been a more comfortable match for Orlando, had it not been for the woodwork in the 11th minute. Nani sent in a beautiful free-kick which left the keeper with no chance but could only find the post.
There was drama after the hosts took the lead back. Referee Ismail Elfath awarded a penalty after a video review, pointing to the spot and handing Rodrigo Schlegel his second yellow card. But on further review, it was determined that Julian Carranza was offside. That saw both the penalty and the red-card rescinded, and that would be that last clear chance for Miami in the match.
Photo Courtesy: Orlando City SC
Florida Soccer Report 