photo/Joe Petro

Orlando, Fla- In their final match of the Walt Disney Pro Soccer Classic, Orlando City SC will take on Thierry Henry and the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, March 1, in the third place match of the tournament. Both Orlando (0-0-2) and New York (2-1-0) finished second in their respective groups, behind 2013 MLS Cup Champions Sporting Kansas City and Columbus Crew. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.

“We’re really looking forward to the match,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath on the upcoming contest against New York. “I think they have one of the strongest squads in MLS, so regardless of whoever they put out, we will expect a good showing.”

So far throughout the Pro Soccer Classic, Orlando City has already displayed that they can compete with some of the premier teams in the nation, despite not having as much preseason training as the visiting MLS clubs. Coming off consecutive 1-1 draws against Philadelphia Union and Toronto F.C., the Lions’ most recent match on Wednesday featured a thrilling 4-4 contest against group-leaders, Columbus Crew.

Although Orlando conceded four goals to the Crew, the Lions had their best attacking performance thus far in the tournament. New signing Darwin Ceren, who has impressed many City fans with his contributions in the Pro Soccer Classic, recorded his first goal in purple and white against Columbus.

MLS signee Kevin Molino has also been in blistering form during the preseason matches and was instrumental in City’s ability to go forward against the Ohio-based club, recording a goal and an assist in 90 minutes.

Last night, Orlando replenished their backline by signing U.S. U18 Men’s National Team Defender Tyler Turner. Turner, along with veterans Rob Valentino, Luke Boden and Brad Rusin, will be called upon to monitor world-renowned Striker Thierry Henry.

After being given the day off for New York’s opening match against Sporting Kansas City, the former French-international appeared in the Red Bulls final two matches in the group stage. During those two matches, New York defeated the Montreal Impact 3-0 and followed that performance with a tight 1-0 win over the Fluminense U23s.

As a result, the 2013 Supporter Shield Champions have momentum heading into their matchup against Orlando. Along with Henry, former Everton F.C. Midfielder Tim Cahill and U.S. Men’s National Team player Dax McCarty will also be active on Saturday.

“I know Tim very well because of both of our connections with Everton,” added Heath. “He was a great player for Everton and I’m not surprised that New York has been successful since he’s been there.”

The match against the New York RedBulls will not be streamed by Orlando City SC or ESPN Wide World of Sports, and admission starts at just $20. The address of the complex is 700 S Victory Way, Kissimmee, FL 34747.