BUFFALO — Junior Mitch Cancilla scored the game’s only goal in the 49th minute and redshirt-junior Marco Trivellato made one save for his first collegiate shutout, as the host Golden Griffins defeated Incarnate Word 1-0 Friday night at the Demske Sports Complex. The win, Canisius’ first improved the Griffs to 1-2-0 on the year, while the Cardinals slipped to 0-3-0.
The win was the 100th career victory for Canisius head coach Dermot McGrane. Canisius ended the game with a 13-8 advantage on shots and the Griffs held a 7-2 margin on corner kicks.
After playing a scoreless first half, the Griffs got on the board after Cancilla finished off a crossing pass from five-yards out. That crossing pass was sent through by sophomore teammate Melvin Blair. The goal is the first in Cancilla’s career as a Griff, and the assist marks the first point of the season for Blair.
Incarnate Word goalkeeper Jorge Guzman made four stops in goal for the Cardinals in the losing effort.
Canisius Coach McGrane said, “Our defense is an experienced group back there and they are gelling very well. Teams are trying to play long balls into us, and our guys are winning everything. We were unfortunate in the last game because [Buffalo] scored on a scramble in front of the goal. Tonight, I don’t think we gave anything away.”
NOTES:
• This was the first meeting between these two schools in men’s soccer.
• All three of Canisius’ games this season have been decided by one goal.
• Dating back to last season, Canisius’ defense has held its opponent to two-or fewer goals in 12-straight contests.
• Cancilla’s goal came on just his second shot of the season.
Canisius will return to the pitch Sunday when the Griffs host Stony Brook. Game time at the Demske Sports Complex is set for 1 p.m.
