ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando City Lions will attempt to cap off their 3rd campaign in Central Florida with another USL Pro Championship.
The Lions host the Charlotte Eagles at 7:30 p.m. at the Citrus Bowl in the title game. 15,000 fans are expected to come through the turnstiles of the downtown stadium.
[VIDEO: News conference held]
"We're expecting some big lines to get in because over 15,000 is gonna set a record for this league," said Phil Rawlins, team owner.
The Lions, who won the championship in 2011, held their final practice on Friday in Sanford. Top scorer Dom Dwyer was there, returning from his stint with Sporting KC of MLS for this one game.
Local 6 was at practice as well, talking with Dwyer and Head Coach Adrian Heath about the USL Pro's main event.
"Great atmosphere. Two very good football teams playing really good football. I'm sure its going to be exciting," said Lions Coach Adrian Heath.
Rawlins hopes the large turnout will push local leaders to approve the new soccer stadium, which will be paid for by both the team and taxpayers.
"I think anybody who comes out to the Citrus Bowl tomorrow night will see Orlando is a soccer city, the soccer capital of the southeast," Rawlins said.
Watch Local 6 for more on this story.