When Orlando City’s tribute to the Pulse nightclub shooting victims brought the Central Florida community together last Saturday, it wasn’t the first time in Kevin Alston’s career that he witnessed an entire city united.

In fact, it was his second time witnessing something like that.

Alston, who joined Orlando in the offseason from New England, recalls his time with the Revolution when he first witnessed a community united.

The tragic events from the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013 saw the entire Boston area come in unison throughout the entire 2013 MLS season, says Alston.

“I was in New England when the whole Boston Marathon bombing happened,” said Alston. “It’s a pretty similar experience in a way the community came together, it did so much to help the families.

“It was an emotional time for everybody. As far as the Revolution, it served as an outlet for people to take their mind off things, and to support a team and do something together.”

With the most current event happening in Orlando, there’s even more reason for the Lions to continue going strong this season, says Alston.

Cautionary learning 

Cristian Higuita has been a crucial player for Orlando City this season.

But if there’s one thing that points to him being a liability, it’s the constant yellow card bookings the Colombian picks up during games.

He knows that.

When Simon Vaness of MLSsoccer.com asked Higuita if the coaching staff has talked to him about avoid those bookings, he took full responsibility.

“They always tell me … I know that I need to get better,” said Higuita. “I’m still developing as a player. I hope to continue my growth as a player and with that I hope the yellow card situation changes [for the better].”

The central midfielder earned his sixth yellow card of the season last Saturday, which puts him at third place for most yellow cards, one shy from leading the league in bookings.

New York City’s Federico Bravo and DC United’s Marcelo Sarvas lead the league with seven yellow card.

Quick kicks

Ricardo Kaká (thigh) and Darwin Ceren (ankle) returned to full team training on Tuesday. The pair missed last Saturday’s game against the San Jose Earthquakes, but a return to fitness would expand Adrian Heath’s options when Orlando welcomes Toronto FC on Saturday at Camping World Stadium.

—

The Orlando Soccer Journal is non-profit news organization. If you’re enjoying our content, please help us fund our new website with a small one-time donation by clicking here.