Cicerone named Mitre national player of week

FC Buffalo attacker Russell Cicerone has been named Mitre National Player of the Week for his weekend performance, the first Wolves player to earn such an honor in the history of the club.

Cicerone (Bloomfield Hill, Mich. // University at Buffalo) scored two goals on Friday against Erie, drawing a free kick that led to a third (scored by his college teammate Marcus Hanson). He also took the corner kick Bobby Ross headed home in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against AFC Cleveland.

“Russell’s achievement is a bit of a team award, but my what a weekend he had,” said FC Buffalo co-owner and general manager Nick Mendola. “It’s a testament to what we’re trying to do here, and the caliber of player UB head coach Stu Riddle is trying to bring to Western New York. We’re thrilled to have the NPSL recognize Russell for his outstanding skill and determination. What an honor.”

It’s another first for FCB head coach Brendan Murphy, whose record as FC Buffalo head coach stands at 9-5-1.

FC Buffalo is back in action Sunday on the road against the Indiana Fire before returning home for a June 1 Erie County Derby date against the Erie Admirals.