Doug Jones-USA Today Sports
Forward Dom Dwyer has split time between MLS side Sporting Kansas City and USL Pro side Orlando City SC thanks in part to a new partnership between MLS and USL Pro.
Earlier this season, Dwyer was a formidable offensive threat, and was loaned back for the USL Pro Championship game. Behind four goals from Dwyer, Orlando defeated the Charlotte Eagles in a thrilling 7-4 victory with more than 20,000 fans in attendance.
With the departure of Kei Kamara, some MLS followers and sports writers were questioning Sporting Kansas City’s decision to loan Dwyer. Well, the supposed “risk” paid off for Kansas City, who is currently having zero issues against an injury-ridden Columbus Crew.
Dwyer’s 2013 USL Pro Championship performance looked like something out off a video game. He scored four of Orlando City’s seven goals on the night. Because of his dominating performance, Dwyer was named MVP as well.
For Dwyer, he will return to Kansas City and help them secure a playoff spot. It would not be surprising to see Dwyer find time in a starting 11 in the near future, and it is a sure bet that he will see time off the bench. Additionally, he has become one of the best young soccer players in MLS this season. Yes, most if not all of his goals this season came with Orlando City, but he still posses a threat to MLS defenses as well.
For Orlando City, their focus now turns to securing an MLS expansion team. Currently, they are in talks with Orange County officials for securing public funding. This public funding seems to be the final hurdle in becoming a MLS side. One thing is for certain — Orlando has passionate fan base and a stadium plan ready.
Watch out, MLS teams. Orlando is ready to become a MLS franchise and compete at the highest level. Depending on when they secure a MLS franchise, it is possible that Orlando would either join MLS competition in 2015 or 2016.
For now, Orlando and Orlando City fans will celebrate with their team for winning the 2013 USL Pro Championship.
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