The Rowdies fought until the last whistle, spurred on by a sellout crowd packed inside Al Lang Stadium, but three first-half goals by Orange County SC proved to be insurmountable as Tampa Bay fell 3-1 in the USL Championship final.
The Rowdies came into Sunday night's final favored over the visiting Orange County SC but were without a key cog - keeper Evan Louro. Louro injured his right knee celebrating a thrilling comeback victory over Louisville FC a week ago, and was questionable to play heading into the match. Just before kick-off, Louro was seen in crutches and a heavy brace while receiving the USL's goalkeeper of the year award, making it clear the Rowdies would be without the best keeper in the league.
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