Redlands FC Set to Kickoff Season vs Stars FC

BY: Caden Henderson, Special Contributor to CFR

Redlands FC are set to begin their 3rd campaign in USL2 this Saturday, May 17th, at 7 PM inside of Dodge Stadium on the campus of Redlands High School as they take on Stars FC. Here is everything to know ahead of opening night. 

Home Cooking 

Dodge Stadium has been very kind to Redlands FC through the first two seasons of the club’s history, as Redlands have lost just two regular season games as the home side. 

RFC also exploded offensively inside of Dodge Stadium last season, going for single game goal totals of 6 and 8. 

The Opponent 

Redlands will face off against expansion side Stars FC. Stars had their first match of the season back on May 12th, earning a point in a 5-5 draw with Coachella SC in a game they had three different two goal leads in.  

Dante Williams leads the Stars and had a hat trick in that season opening draw. Liam Mullins also added a brace, suggesting the Stars could have a deadly attack for the Redlands back line to deal with. 

Player to Watch: Luka Lukic 

Arguably the best returning player for Redlands FC is striker Luka Lukic. Lukic was an absolute machine last season for Redlands, leading the team in goals and putting on a show every game for the home crowd. With Lukic back as the centerpiece of the offense, expect Redlands to put up some big goal totals not just this weekend, but all season long. 

Final Notes

This season is set to be a redemption tour for RFC, who missed the playoffs last year after winning the Southwest Division in 2023. A major key to that success was going undefeated at home in the regular season two years ago, and they’ll be looking to start the replication of that Saturday night. 

For those unable to attend, the game will be broadcasted live on Sports Engine Play.