ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The NASL’s Rochester Rhinos welcomed FC Buffalo into beautiful Marine Auto Stadium for FCB’s first ever friendly, and issued the first-year club its first-ever loss.
The Rhinos struck once in each half to win the day, 2-0. Both teams had their chances with reports saying the pace was very spirited. FCB came closest to scoring in the second half when longtime Rhinos goalkeeper Scott Vallow snagged a dangerous free kick to highlight his clean sheet. All-in-all, it was an impressive debut for FCB considering the Rhinos are well into their regular season, and Buffalo welcomed several players back from college just last week.
“Really our best chance came in the first half when (Matt Stuczynski) took a cross out of the air on the end line, beat a player then crossed in front of the goal to (Justin) Roundy who tried to slot it home, but a Rhinos defender made a sliding play to clear it off the line,” said head coach Jim Hesch. “It would have made it 1-0, FC Buffalo. Not sure the talent of the others in the league, but if we get in shape we should do well!”
FC Buffalo’s first game comes Saturday, May 29. It’s a 3 p.m. affair at Robert E. Rich All-High Stadium, located at 2885 Main Street in Buffalo, N.Y. Admission is $5, but you can save money by becoming a season-ticket holder today. Six games, $25. You can’t beat it, so SHOP HERE.
FC Buffalo’s staff wishes to thank Rochester for welcoming us into their wonderful home.
A crucial element of this story is missing, namely the basis for the headline. How were the Rhinos unwelcoming? Why, in the first sentence of the article does it immediately say, “…Rhinos welcomed FC Buffalo…”
A confusing article. It seems like there could be a more appropriate time to use phrases like “friendly” and “unwelcoming” in close proximity.
I think they meant a sort of irony my a friendly game where they lost to the team that invited them there.
It’s a stretch.