Match Preview | Rochester NY FC vs Cleveland SC

Cleveland SC Travels to Rochester for Clash with NPSL Newcomers

WEST HENRIETTA, NY — After a statement-making season opener, Cleveland SC is back in action this Saturday, May 17th, as they travel once again to the Empire State to take on Rochester NY FC at the RNY FC Complex. Kickoff is set for 5:30 PM as Cleveland looks to build on their early momentum against another Great Lakes Conference newcomer.

Cleveland SC enters Match Day 2 at the top of the conference table, following a convincing 3-0 victory last weekend over the Buffalo Stallions. With every other club idle on opening weekend, Cleveland currently holds the early edge in the Great Lakes Conference standings and will aim to remain unbeaten against a Rochester side making their NPSL debut.

Last week’s opener saw forward Stanislav Koval get off to a strong start, picking up right where he left off in 2024 when he led the team in goals. Koval opened the scoring in the 17th minute after collecting an assist from midfielder Cian Tunney, then doubled Cleveland’s lead just before halftime with a successful penalty conversion. The third goal of the night came courtesy of an own goal, following a dangerous cross from midfielder Uleto Fuentes.

Cleveland’s defense also impressed, with Zoltan Nagy and Colin Monroe combining for a clean sheet and five saves between them. The midfield of Linus Östlund, Samuel Sebagabo, Kyle Healy, and Fuentes dictated the tempo throughout, limiting Buffalo’s chances and controlling possession in key areas. The defensive backline - anchored by Alexandru Rumleanschi, Bobby Turner, and Elek McDonald - maintained discipline throughout the match, snuffing out threats before they could materialize. The team will aim to replicate this defensive resilience when they face Rochester on Saturday.

A First Look at Rochester NY FC Academy

Saturday’s match will be a historic one for the hosts, as Rochester NY FC plays its first-ever NPSL game. Led by Executive Director Jim D’Anza and a coaching staff including Rory Charcholla, Luca Cuomo, and Aidan Miller, the team is expected to feature a blend of high-level youth players, recent college standouts, and locally developed talent. According to Charcholla, joining the NPSL is a move that aligns with the club’s “values and development process,” offering their players a professional environment with meaningful competition.

What’s at Stake

For Cleveland SC, the goal is simple: build on the early momentum and win in this first ever NPSL matchup against Rochester NY FC. With aspirations of getting back to the postseason for the first time since 2023, the club will be anxious to get back out on the pitch and solidify themselves as top contenders in the conference early in the season. In this first ever matchup between the two clubs, both sides will be looking to establish themselves and make a strong impression.

Match Information

Location: RNY FC Athletic Complex, 1520 John St, West Henrietta, NY 14586

Date & Time: Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 5:30 PM EDT

Ticket Information: General Admission tickets are $10 and can be purchased online or at the gate upon arrival to the complex.

Follow the Match Live

At the time of this post, no stream link has been provided. If you can't join us in Rochester, be sure to follow Cleveland SC on X and Instagram for live match updates.

Elsewhere in the Great Lakes Conference

New York State is center stage as the rest of the conference begins action in the 2025 NPSL Season:

Syracuse FC (0-0-0) v Ambassadors FC Ohio (0-0-0), Saturday, May 17, 5:00 PM EDT at Camden High School Stadium.

Flower City Union (0-0-0) v Erie Commodores FC (0-0-0), Saturday, May 17, 6:00 PM EDT at Rochester Community Sports Complex.

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