by Leviathan Earn Statement Road Victory Over Erie, 3-1
ERIE, Pa. — The Lorain County Leviathan delivered one of their most complete performances of the young season Sunday afternoon, combining attractive possession football with defensive resilience to earn a 3-1 road victory over Erie.
From the opening whistle, the Leviathan dictated the pace of play. Lorain County controlled possession for long stretches, repeatedly working the ball into dangerous areas and forcing Erie to defend deep in its own half.
The visitors created several quality chances before finally breaking through in the 38th minute. After Ahmad Hijaz was fouled inside the penalty area, Dakota Jonke stepped to the spot and calmly converted the penalty kick to give the Leviathan a deserved 1-0 lead.
Despite holding the advantage, Lorain County continued to press forward. Opportunities fell to several players throughout the first half, including dangerous moments involving Sam Nam and Marco Valentic, as Erie struggled to cope with the Leviathan’s movement and passing.
Head Coach Blake New made three changes at halftime, introducing Marty McLaughlin, Santiago Mailio, and Stefan Velkovic. The adjustments paid immediate dividends.
Just four minutes into the second half, Lorain County produced one of its finest team goals of the season. A flowing passing sequence began with Noah Handzel helping move the ball through midfield before finding Jonke on the flank. Jonke delivered an excellent cross into the penalty area where Valentic arrived to finish and double the Leviathan lead in the 49th minute.
At 2-0, Lorain County appeared firmly in control, but Erie found a way back into the contest in the 62nd minute. Goalkeeper Stephen Yerian made a strong initial save, but the rebound remained loose inside the box and Erie reacted first to convert from close range, cutting the deficit to 2-1.
The goal shifted momentum and set up a tense final half hour. Erie pushed numbers forward searching for an equalizer while the Leviathan defense worked tirelessly to preserve the lead. Yerian and the back line stood strong through several dangerous moments as the hosts attempted to complete the comeback.
As stoppage time arrived, Erie committed additional players forward, creating space for Lorain County on the counterattack. The Leviathan capitalized deep into added time when Velkovic found the decisive third goal, ending Erie’s hopes and securing all three points for the visitors.
The victory improves momentum for Lorain County ahead of Tuesday night’s Orange Barrel Cup showdown with Cleveland Force.
“Today was a complete team performance,” said Head Coach Blake New. “We played the type of football we want to be known for—controlled possession, created chances, and when Erie made things difficult, the players showed tremendous character to see out the result. We’re proud of the effort and excited to bring that momentum home for a massive match on Tuesday.”
Scoring Summary
38′ – Dakota Jonke (PK), penalty won by Ahmad Hijaz
49′ – Marco Valentic (assist: Dakota Jonke; buildup by Noah Handzel)
62′ – Erie
90+’ – Stefan Velkovic
Final Score
Lorain County Leviathan 3
Erie 1
About Lorain County Leviathan
Lorain County Leviathan FC is Lorain County’s pre-professional soccer club, competing in USL League Two and committed to providing high-level soccer, community engagement, and a matchday experience unlike any other.
