Alex Freeman’s goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time provided visiting Orlando City SC with a critical standings point as they drew with FC Cincinnati 1-1 Sunday night.
The draw keeps Cincinnati (18-9-5, 59 points) unbeaten in its third straight overall and second in a row at home.
More importantly, they stay four points back of the Philadelphia Union for first place in the Eastern Conference and the Supporters’ Shield Race. Both teams have two games remaining. Cincinnati is still three points ahead of New York City FC and Inter Miami FC in the Eastern Conference standings.
With time winding down, Orlando’s Tyrece Spicer served a ball into the box and Freeman headed it just inside the right post from eight yards out.
Kevin Denkey’s 14th goal of the season in the 73rd minute gave FC Cincinnati the lead. Denkey took a feed from Evander and hit the left corner of the net from the top of the box.
Cincinnati was starting backup goalkeeper Evan Louro for an injured Roman Celentano. Louro made five saves on the night.
Sunday night was a potential playoff preview between the two clubs, and it showed in a tightly contested match in late September.
Orlando (14-7-10, 52 points) is currently in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made eight saves to help the Lions avoid the regular-season sweep of Cincinnati.
Cincinnati plays at the New York Red Bulls, while Orlando hosts the Columbus Crew, both on October 4.
–Field Level Media
