The Canisius men’s soccer team played to a 1-1 double overtime draw in its first MAAC game of the season Saturday evening against Rider.

The teams would go scoreless in the first half of play with Canisius recording four shots on net to Rider’s two.

In the second half of play, the Griffs took a 1-0 lead over the defending MAAC Champion Broncs at the 61:41 mark. The goal was scored on a header from sophomore defender Alex Grattarola off of a corner kick from teammate Francesco Strangio. Rider would return the favor with senior back Rob Nardiello scoring on a rebound off of his own header at 67:53.

In overtime, the pace of the game slowed as both teams had few scoring opportunities. The Griffs would end overtime with three shots on goal, while the Broncs were held without a shot.

The draw was the first for both teams this season, with the Golden Griffins now holding a record of 4-4-1, going 0-0-1 in MAAC play.

Canisius will next head on the road for a conference matchup as the squad takes on Manhattan on Oct. 1 in Riverdale. The match is slated for 7 p.m.


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