By Doug Steiger
The Daily City Sports Photographer + Writer
Orlando City welcomed back their captain, Ricardo Kaká, with a 4-1 victory over the defending MLS champion Portland Timbers on Sunday evening. Kaká tallied a goal and 2 assists in front of an announced crowd of 31,114 at the Orlando Citrus Bowl. The Lions also had goals from Brek Shea, Seb Hines, and a penalty kick goal from Kevin Molino. Lions goalkeeper Joe Bendik kept up the momentum with a crucial penalty kick save in the first half to stop any Portland momentum. The win brings Orlando City to 2-0-2 on the season and to the top of the Eastern Conference standings. The team next plays on April 8th in Philadelphia before returning to the Citrus Bowl on April 17th to play New England.
Seb Hines goal celebration
Kevin Molino shot on goal
(Left to right) Seb Hines and Brek Shea celebrating Hines’ goal
Team captain Kaká celebrating with Kevin Molino after his first MLS goal
(Left to right) Kevin Molino, Brek Shea, Ricardo Kaká, Adrian Winter celebrating Molino’s penalty kick goal
Kaká dribbling towards the net
Kaká jumping to avoid a tackle near the goal
Orlando Pride and U.S. Women’s National Team star Alex Morgan during halftime ceremony.
Pregame presentation of new player Julio Baptista with team owner Flavio da Silva
Team celebration of goal by Seb Hines
The starting 11 for Orlando City
Kaká serving the ball in towards the net
Kevin Molino just before striking his first MLS goal on a penalty kick