Thousands of fans attend Lions open practice

MLS season kicks off March 8 as Lions host New York City FC

ORLANDO, Fla. – Thousands of fans at the Orlando Citrus Bowl attended the Lions' open practice Saturday as the team continues to prepare for its inaugural Major League Soccer matchup.

The free event gave fans an opportunity to enjoy a low-key soccer experience with family and friends, Orlando City Soccer Club officials said.

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Thousands were on hand to watch Coach Adrian Heath take the Lions through various exercises for about 90 minutes.

"We'll have to play with different positions a bit, but the team looked good today," said Heath. "Our biggest goal is getting everyone more minutes on the field, and keeping them healthy and mentally prepared."

The Lions have sold more than 11,000 season-ticket packages, and on Saturday opened the sale of 2015 single-game tickets at the Citrus Bowl Box office. The team aims to top the sale of season-ticket packages at 14,000, and reach 60,000 spectators for the March 8 matchup.

"This practice marks the beginning of the end of preseason for us and we are moved by the support from the community," said Orlando City President and Founder Phil Rawlins. "We've seen the passion for soccer brewing in the city, and are confident our fans will come out and want to be part of history for the team, the city and its great people."

The 2015 MLS season kicks off at the Orlando Citrus Bowl as the Lions host New York City FC at 5 p.m. March 8. Click here to purchase season and single season tickets or call 855-ORL-CITY.


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