Atlanta scores late to pull even in draw vs. Orlando

Jay Fortune’s 86th-minute goal cancelled out Griffin Dorsey’s first-half opener as visiting Atlanta United played Orlando City to a 1-1 draw on Saturday night.

Fortune’s goal, his second in as many matches, secured a point for Atlanta (3-8-2, 11 points) and snapped its two-match losing streak at home.

With just minutes to go in normal time, Atlanta — who appeared destined for a second straight loss — pulled level. Matt Edwards used some brilliant footwork on the right side of the Orlando scoring area before passing it into the box to Fortune. Fortune’s first-time effort sailed over Orlando goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau to make it 1-1.

Atlanta had a chance to take all three points from Orlando in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time, but Crepeau dove to parry away Matias Galarza’s attempt from just beyond the box.

That provided some consolation for Orlando (4-8-2, 14 points), who opened the scoring in the 18th minute.

Martin Ojeda’s pass between the legs of Atlanta centerback Enea Mihaj found Ivan Angulo charging into the scoring area. Despite Tomas Jacob’s attempts to defend, Angulo passed the ball in front of the goal to Dorsey, who tapped it in to give Orlando a 1-0 lead. It was Dorsey’s second goal of the season.

Orlando City had several opportunities to extend its lead but failed to capitalize, ultimately settling for a point after conceding Fortune’s late goal. They were also forced to take Robin Jansson out at halftime after the Orlando centerback and captain appeared to suffer a knee injury.

Angulo was credited with an assist on Dorsey’s goal, which was his team-high seventh of the season. Edwards’ assist on Fortune’s goal was his first of the year.

Orlando and Atlanta will play each other again on Tuesday in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals.

–Field Level Media