The big question for Orlando City as it prepares for the start of its second season: Can the franchise do it again?
And make the Playoffs. Yes, the playoffs are important. But can the franchise create the same excitement and thrill and atmosphere it had in its expansion season. Will fans flock to the Orlando Citrus Bowl with the same fervor and passion they did when they set an MLS expansion club record.
Orlando City set its opening week festivities up again with the goal to #FillTheBowlAgain. Unbelievably, with a week to go before the opener against Real Salt Lake next Sunday, March 7, Orlando City is well on its way.
Phil Rawlins reported at the team’s media day on Friday the club has sold more than 43,000 tickets for the opener next week.
“I find it difficult to keep the smile off my face,” Rawlins said at the club’s media day Friday. “We’re already at over 43,000 tickets sold for opening day again. It’s incredible.
“[I’m] excited about March 6. Can’t wait to see [the stadium] full of purple again, and, to be honest with you, just the opportunity to recapture those memories a second time,“ Rawlins said.
Orlando City packed in 62,510 for the home opener of the expansion season against New York City FC. The Citrus Bowl was nearly full from top to bottom and completely sold out. That is an incredible feat for a MLS team.
The Lions kept the momentum going with the largest average attendance of any expansion team in MLS history. That excitement appears to have carried over.
Orlando City is playing its final friendly before the regular season begins tonight at the Orlando Citrus Bowl against a Brazilian team. There is definite growing excitement and anticipation for what this team will do this season.
A strong opening night is only going to add to that anticipation.
