By: Ryan Flynn
SETTING THE SCENE
Sarasota Paradise head to Portland, Maine on Saturday as they take on the Hearts of Pine, riding a six-game unbeaten streak. Last week, the Paradise beat Greenville Triumph 6-0 in a game that saw five different goalscorers rack up the largest home win in USL League One history. Now, they turn their attention to a Portland side that has won two of their last three league matches, making this a crucial game for both teams as they continue their push towards the playoffs.
The two clubs already have history this season, with Sarasota going undefeated in their home-and-home Snowbird Derby exhibition series at the end of July in addition to a 1-0 win in league play the last time the two sides played for points on March 28.
SIX PARADISE PLAYERS EARN TEAM OF THE WEEK HONORS
Last week’s record-breaking win over Greenville saw six Paradise players named to USL League One’s Team of the Week for Week 29. Sander Røed, Jonathan Bolanos, and Anderson Rosa were all named to the Starting XI, while Alex Sutton, Kisa Kiingi, and Brendan Krueger were named to the bench.
PLAYER TO WATCH
Jonathan Bolanos, FW – Bolanos has been a focal point of the Paradise attack this season, using his speed and vision to set up plays on goal. His performance against the Triumph, including a goal and an assist, brought the forward’s career goal total to 20 in USL League One and his assist tally to 17. This made him only the sixth player in League One history with at least 20 goals and 15 assists in their career. Against Portland, expect Bolanos to create chances and lead numerous attacks into the opposing box.
KEYS TO VICTORY
Weather the Storm with your identity
Start on the front foot
GAME DETAILS
When: September 26, 2026
Where: Fitzpatrick Stadium
Time: 5:00 PM
Where to Watch: ESPN+