Orlando City Tie 1-1 with Atlanta United After Nutmeg Kyle Smith Goal

ORLANDO, Fl. (FNN) — The Orlando City Lions hosted Atlanta United to a draw this weekend.

The Florida-Georgia rivalry renewed for another chapter as Orlando City hosted Atlanta in a fireball matchup. The intensity of derby games in the MLS are always must-see TV. This game proved no different as both teams got after it with fouls beginning in the first minute. Referee Allen Chapman had his work cut out for him as he blew a foul call early on for Orlando after Ivan Angulo’s jersey was pulled just outside the box.

However, the missed calls would not matter much for the Lions as they started to find their groove. Facundo Torres showed shades of his Peñarol days with tight triangulation play that almost marked the difference. That coherent team play continued as Angulo-Pereyra-Kara and finally Torres all touched the ball before it fell at the feet of Kyle Smith. In the 30th minute, Kyle Smith marked the first goal of the night to make it 1-0 toward Orlando. Smith hoodwinked Brad Guzan with a beautiful shot between the legs of the keeper.

Bitter Rivals, Beautiful Game

Despite clear efforts to poach the ball on defense, Atlanta’s build-up play was often stifled by Orlando’s press. Cartagena, Jansson and even Pereyra had success usurping possession from Atlanta. This sneaky adjustment to their offense made Atlanta’s attacks stop before they could get any steam.

With the second half underway, Orlando City remained in the drivers seat for a majority of play. Facundo Torres was completely unleashed on Atlanta’s defense, making a highlight dribble play before finding a pass into the box. Despite the fanfare it wasn’t enough to turn the deficit. With the game trudging on, Orlando City seemed docile with tired legs taking their hold. Miguel Berry was close to finding a first goal for Atlanta after a lapse in concentration on the other end of the field.

With ten minutes left in the game, Orlando’s fandom didn’t quit for a moment. The crowd of 20,127 were on their feet cheering the Lions on against their bitter rivals. However, the cheers would soon turn to gasps of exasperation as Atlanta leveled the score. Tyler Wolff received a fortunate bounce on the ball and fooled Pedro Gallese the wrong way with his shot inside the box.

At that moment, the wind had been taken from Orlando with five minutes left in regular play. Despite looking the better side, the game of football can be a cruel mistress. Orlando City are denied a full three points and this draw keeps them in 6th place. One spot behind Atlanta United as both teams earn their fifth draw of the season.