Season Opener is a Win at Home!
After coming off a 2-game loss on the road, Redlands FC earned its first win of the season in its first home game of the 2026 season Saturday night, defeating City SC 3-1.
Midfielder Jose de la Torre scored the first goal in the 17th minute with a header. The Cal State Fullerton man executed an excellent cross, providing Redlands with their first lead of the season. This early goal also captivated the crowd, particularly Redlands FC’s support group, the I-10 Ultras.
Redlands capitalized on that energy and maintained its dominance until the 25th minute. Jose de la Torre then delivered a cross into the box, which was met by striker Efren Nunez, who scored to make it 2-0 for the home team. Remarkably, Redlands had already surpassed their goal tally of just one in their first two games within less than half an hour.
City SC finally found some momentum towards the end of the first half, but goalkeeper Tony Flores and his team held them scoreless. As a result, Redlands went into halftime with a commanding 2-0 lead and the upper hand.
The second half saw a more balanced play, with both teams missing opportunities to capitalize on open nets and failing to convert on several set pieces. However, City SC managed to score about midway through the second half, leveling the score at 1-1.
Nervous energy filled Dodge Stadium after City SC’s goal, but it would soon be reversed. In the opening moments of stoppage time, substitute Clement Badger scored the decisive goal, securing a 3-1 victory for Redlands. This result would stand as the final score.
Post-game, Jose de la Torre was named Man of the Match for his goal and assist performance. Redlands now stands at 1-1-1, having reached the quarter mark of their 12-game 2026 campaign.