Cleveland SC Tops Buffalo Stallions in Front of 1,231 Fans at NPSL Opener

May 11, 2025

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By Buffalo Stallions

Cleveland SC spoiled the long-awaited return of the Buffalo Stallions with a 3-0 victory in front of a raucous crowd of 1,231 fans at North Tonawanda High School on Saturday night. The match marked the Stallions’ return to competitive soccer after a 45-year hiatus and their debut in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL).

Backed by the passionate chants and drumming of their supporters’ club, The Stallion Battalion, Buffalo came out pressing aggressively in the midfield. That energy led to an early turnover created by Chris Griffiths, but the Stallions couldn’t capitalize on the ensuing opportunity.

Cleveland responded swiftly. A quick counterattack saw forward Stanislav Koval find the back of the net to give the visitors a 1-0 lead. Koval would strike again just before halftime, this time from the penalty spot after being pulled down in the box. His composed finish gave Cleveland a 2-0 cushion heading into the break.

The second half was tightly contested, with both teams trading chances and goalkeepers on both sides making key stops. Stallions keeper Jack Petrie and Cleveland’s Colin Monroe were each tested, with Monroe earning the clean sheet. Zolton Nagy also made crucial saves to keep Cleveland in front.

Cleveland sealed the result late in the second half when a driven cross from Uleto Fuentes deflected off a Stallions defender and trickled into the goal for an own goal.

Despite the final scoreline, the Stallions showed flashes of promise and continued to battle until the final whistle, pushing Cleveland into uncomfortable territory at times.