by AVON, Ohio — History arrived in Lorain County on Saturday night as more than 2,100 fans packed the stadium to witness the first home match in Lorain County Leviathan history. While the Leviathan fell 3-1 to Buffalo, the final score was overshadowed by the atmosphere, community pride, and overwhelming support shown throughout the night.
More than 250 supporters gathered before kickoff at Cameo at the Fieldhouse for the club’s official pregame party before marching together toward the stadium led by nine bagpipers and drummers from the 87th Cleveland Pipe Band, creating one of the most unique entrances in Ohio soccer.
Fans filled the stands hours before kickoff, waving flags, singing chants, and embracing what many described as a landmark moment for Lorain County sports.
“This didn’t exist a year ago,” said Lorain County Leviathan Chairman and minority owner Andrew McDonnell. “Tonight we had a packed house, families smiling, kids wearing Leviathan gear, and a community rallying around something that belongs to Lorain County. The result on the field hurts, but what happened tonight was bigger than soccer.”
Leviathan coach Blake New echoed the emotions felt throughout the stadium after the final whistle.
“You could feel how much this meant to people,” New said. “From the march with the pipe band to the crowd singing before kickoff, it felt special from the moment we arrived. Obviously we wanted a different result, but the support tonight was incredible and we’re proud to represent this county.”
The Leviathan struck once in front of the home crowd but Buffalo capitalized on key opportunities to secure the 3-1 victory. Despite the loss, fans remained in the stadium after the match for player autographs, photos, and celebrations on the concourse.
Team officials called the evening a major success for the growth of soccer and community entertainment in Lorain County, pointing to the turnout, local business involvement, and family-friendly environment as signs of momentum for the club moving forward.
The Leviathan return home on June 3 for the Orange Barrel Cup against Cleveland FC, one of the club’s biggest rivalry matches of the season.
“We want to rock this place again,” McDonnell said. “The Orange Barrel belongs in Lorain County, and we want this community back out in full force to help us bring it home.”
The June 3 match is expected to feature another major pregame celebration, supporter march, and packed crowd atmosphere as Lorain County continues building one of the most unique soccer traditions in the Midwest.
