The Orlando City football team temporarily halted a game this weekend, to observe a moment of silence in honour of the 49 innocent people who lost their lives in a shooting at a local nightclub.
This MLS meeting with the San Jose Earthquakes, was the first sports event in the city since the attack took place last week. As part of the pre-match build up, the hit song 'All You Need Is Love' by The Beatles, was played out in the stadium as both teams entered the pitch.
And in the 49th minute of the game, the 37,194 spectators who were in attendance at the Camping World Stadium, stood as a mark of respect for the people who were killed and those who were left injured.
Families of the victims of the Pulse nightclub fatalities along with the first responders, were acknowledged during the game and players from both teams wore black armbands and Orlando Pride patches.
One section of the stadium was occupied by a colourful balloon in each seat, while the corner flags used for the game, featured the rainbow symbol of gay pride.
As much as a disappointing finish as it was, credit to the City of Orlando and the Orlando City supporters on a very emotional night.
— The Mane Land (@TheManeLand) June 19, 2016
Orlando City Soccer Club walked onto the pitch with The Beatles "All You Need Is Love" as the soundtrack. pic.twitter.com/3x9JdBvHr4
— J.C. Carnahan (@JCCarnz) June 19, 2016
Orlando City Soccer Club walked onto the pitch with The Beatles "All You Need Is Love" as the soundtrack. pic.twitter.com/3x9JdBvHr4
— J.C. Carnahan (@JCCarnz) June 19, 2016
As a gesture to those affected by the tragedy, Orlando City defender Seb Hines took off his rainbow wristband and waved it to the crowd after opening the scoring.
"I just wanted to show my support. It was more than just a game out there tonight. It was the togetherness of the city and around the world. Everyone is united. I was just putting that out there for everyone to see."
