Inferno Off to a Blazing Start

Lancaster Inferno kicked off the 2026 season in unforgettable fashion, thrilling a record home-opening crowd on May 24 with a dramatic 2-1 victory over local rival Eagle FC.

With perfect weather setting the stage, fans packed the stadium and created an electric atmosphere from the opening moments. Fern and the Wildfires led spirited chants and cheers throughout the evening, helping fuel the energy that carried Inferno through a hard-fought battle. That support reached a crescendo when Lancaster scored the game-winning goal in stoppage time, sending the crowd into a frenzy and shaking the stadium with thunderous applause.

The night felt special from the very beginning.

The teams were led onto the field by the solemn beat of a snare drum and a ceremonial color guard. In observance of Memorial Day weekend, fans were treated to a unique rendition of the National Anthem performed on drum and fife by members of the First Pennsylvania Reserves Volunteer Corps Field Music, Venture Crew 42, from Gettysburg. The color guard was presented by Scouting America Troop 83 of Leola, whose members wore replica uniforms of the First Pennsylvania Regiment from the Revolutionary War. The powerful ceremony concluded with a moment of silence honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

When the match began, Eagle FC wasted no time making an impact. The visitors struck early on a corner kick in the third minute, catching Inferno off guard and taking a 1-0 lead.

Lancaster responded with determination. The remainder of the first half featured end-to-end action before Ashley Lavrich found the equalizer in the 44th minute, finishing a setup from Carsyn Boyer to send the teams into halftime tied 1-1.

The second half continued to be a tightly contested battle, with opportunities on both ends of the field. Inferno goalkeeper Samantha Widnick delivered several outstanding saves to keep Lancaster in the match, earning Player of the Match honors for her performance.

As regulation time expired and stoppage time began, the match appeared destined for a draw. Then came the defining moment.

After a hard foul just outside the box, Inferno earned a dangerous free kick opportunity. Rachel Eberly played the ball to Annabelle Wunderlich, who delivered a perfectly placed pass into the goal area. Defender Jess Weinoldt rose above the defense and headed the ball into the back of the net in the 93rd minute, igniting celebrations throughout the stadium.

Just over a minute later, the final whistle sounded, sealing an unforgettable 2-1 victory for Lancaster Inferno.

This memorable home/season opener is just the beginning for Lancaster Inferno!

Since that victory, Inferno has traveled to Virginia twice to face Patuxent FA, earning two wins with respective scores of 4-0 and 6-0. Those results have propelled Lancaster to first place in the USL W League Mid-Atlantic Division and into the league’s national Top 15 rankings.

Next Up: Women’s Empowerment Night

Come out to watch Inferno take on Patuxent again at home on Sunday, June 7th to cheer Inferno on to continue the the winning streak! We will be joined by some special guests to help us celebrate Women’s Empowerment Night.

• The first 200 women through the gates will receive a positive affirmation and inspirational keychain.
• Fans who bring a food donation for a local food bank will receive 20% off Inferno merchandise in celebration of World Caring Day.
• Special guests and community partners will join us throughout the evening as we celebrate the impact and achievements of women in our community.

See you at the park!