Photo: Jon Lorentz

Saturday was a big night for Orlando City SC for two reasons.

Not only did the players find out who they would face in the Championship match, but it was also determined that the game will be on their home turf.

That puts the 2013 USL PRO Championship in front of a home crowd at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

“It’s incredible to be home for the Championship,” said Orlando City Defender Rob Valentino. “I think the fans deserve it. They’ve been with us throughout the ups and downs this season.”

Valentino, who welcomed his first baby into the world with wife Amanda last week, says Charlotte (No. 5 seed) will not be a team to take lightly on Saturday.

“Every time we’ve played Charlotte, they’ve given us a tough game,” Valentino said. “Our mentality has always been the same, take every game with the respect it deserves. They are organized and work hard. They are going to give us a good challenge. You can’t underestimate any team in this league. “
 

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When asked if he was surprised the No.1 seeded Richmond Kickers were upset by the Eagles Saturday night, Valentino said nothing is too shocking in the competitive USL PRO.

“I wasn’t too sure how the game would go (between Charlotte/Richmond),” he added. “It’s two teams that are both great sides. Charlotte can give anyone a hard time. I’m not surprised. Richmond’s had a great season, but in the playoffs- that doesn’t matter.”

Valentino says that last year’s exit from the playoffs is still a talking point around the locker room, with the defender adding that the 2012 Semifinal loss to the Wilmington Hammerheads is inspiration heading into Saturday.

“Wilmington is a motivation. We’ve talked about it since the beginning of the season. We don’t ever want to have that feeling again, someone coming into your own turf and taking (a Championship) away from us. We want it back. “