BUFFALO, NY — The Iona University men's soccer team kicked off Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play with 3-2 against Canisius. Graduate student Storm Schmidt Hollensted delivered the game-winning goal with 76 seconds left to secure the road win at Demske Sports Complex. The game winner was Hollensted's second goal of the season. Graduate student Chris Morandi scored a goal with the assist by Junior Calle Sjoberg. Sophomore goalkeeper Fernando Alves Schmelz registered three saves.

GAME SUMMARY

The Gaels wasted no time setting the tone, pressing high and creating chances early. Their breakthrough came in the 9th minute when sharp ball movement led to a dangerous cross inside the box by Morandi. The ball deflected off a Canisius defender and found the back of the net, giving Iona the 1-0 lead. Iona continued to dominate possession for majority of the first half. The Golden Griffins countered in the 41st minute on a strike from Romero Nicolazzo to knot the game up. In the second half, Morandi got rolling in the second half thanks to Morandi firing an 18-yard strike in the 68 minutes, scoring his first collegiate goal. The Griffins freshman Noah Baumslag followed up and scored a goal in the 86 minute. With just 1:16 left to play, Storm Schmidt Hollensted sealed the win, scoring Iona's third goal on a clean finish to the left side of the net. The Gaels finished the match with a decisive edge in shots and possession, showcasing both their attacking depth and defensive composure in their MAAC opener.

TEAM STATS

• Iona Gaels held a 18-10 advantage on shots and a slight 6-5 favor for shots on goal.
• Gaels led 9-4 on corner kicks and 1-0 assists.
• There were 12 combined fouls between both teams with four yellow cards handed out.

UP NEXT

The Gaels return home to host Saint Peter's at Mazzella Field on October 1 at 1 P.M. for their second MAAC matchup of the season.