Pancyprians Defeat Manhattan Celtic 1-0 to Extend Lead in APSL Metropolitan Conference

The New York Pancyprian Freedoms capped off a day of Greek pride with a gritty 1-0 victory over Manhattan Celtic on Sunday, March 30th at Belson Stadium—just hours after marching in the Greek Independence Parade on 5th Avenue.

The win pushes the Pancyprians six points clear at the top of the Metropolitan Conference of the American Premier Soccer League (APSL), ahead of rivals Lansdowne Yonkers FC and the Greek Americans. The match turned early when Manhattan Celtic were reduced to 10 men in the 15th minute, and the Pancyprians seized the advantage.

Nicholas Zielonka broke the deadlock in the 58th minute with a clinical finish that proved to be the difference-maker. From there, the Pancyprians displayed the kind of defensive discipline and tactical maturity that championship teams are made of—closing out the game and securing all three points.

“Celtic were very organized defensively and made it difficult for us to break through,” said Andreas Chronis, head coach of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms. “Ultimately, we applied enough pressure to get the goal and secure the win. I’m very proud of the team for this result—it puts us six points ahead at the top. Now our focus shifts to the U.S. Open Cup and the next five league games, with the clear intent of winning them all.”

Now, attention shifts to a massive midweek showdown in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The Pancyprians are set to face USL League One side Westchester SC in the tournament’s Second Round. That match kicks off on Wednesday, April 2nd at 7:00 PM at The Stadium at Memorial Field in Mount Vernon, New York. Tickets are available online starting at $5.

With momentum on their side and the stakes getting higher, the Pancyprians are hungry to make noise on the national stage.