Orlando City opened the season in style, defeating fellow 2015 MLS expansion club New York City FC in the cozy confines of the club’s gorgeous new Purple Palace. We’re here to talk about the game in great detail, from the job Joe Bendik did in goal, to the new-look back line — with a midfielder at right back, no less — to newcomer Giles Barnes’ perfectly placed back-post cross, to Cyle Larin’s beautiful header, to Kaká’s injury, and more.
But before all that, we gush at length about the stadium itself and I give a full report of my view and experience in the safe standing section where The Wall lives, breathes, and pulsates throughout the game.