Redlands resident and retired Air Force lieutenant colonel says Honor Flight trip honored enlisted veterans who often returned home without recognition after the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Redlands FC began their latest season of USL2 action in Arizona on Saturday against FC Tucson. Redlands has quickly learned throughout the last couple of years that it is a tough place to play, and that was no different to kick off the 2026 season.
Despite a valiant comeback effort and a quality late opportunity though, Redlands was unable to steal a point on the road and fell by a score of 1-0.
Tucson opened the scoring early, as in the 13th minute a great showing of patience and passing led to a goal off a rebound for Tyler Ware. Redlands settled in after the early strike though and went into the locker room down just a goal.
In the second half, Tucson maintained a majority of control and headed into the final few moments seemingly poised to secure a somewhat stress free victory. That was until the 90th minute when Redlands had a real opportunity.
A quick transition play created by an excellent pass led to a 1 on 1 with Tucson keeper Alexander Svetanoff. Svetanoff made the initial save which then led to a big rebound, but he was able to rush to it and collect it a half step before the second wave of Redlands attackers could get a touch to it and finish off the goal scoring opportunity.
5 minutes of stoppage time was played after that, but Redlands could not get another real scoring chance or shot on goal. The final whistle blew, and Redlands FC’s season would begin with a road loss.
Redlands had no time to dwell on the result, though, as they returned to action Sunday night in the second leg of their season-opening road trip against Stars FC. Redlands battled to a 1-1 draw, earning its first point of the 2026 USL League Two season.
Caden Henderson has been a journalist since he was five. He has interviewed athletes like Mike Trout. Caden is pursuing a degree at the University of Redlands. He is also the voice of Redlands FC.
