Buffalo, N.Y. ? Freshman Neil Shaffer (Aliquippa, Pa. / Beaver) has had an impressive debut in a Robert Morris University men's soccer team. After icing a season opening win over Duquesne Friday afternoon, Shaffer pushed the Colonials record to 2-0 by scoring with 56 seconds remaining in double-overtime to give RMU a 2-1 win at Canisius. Shaffer also had an assist for three points in the game and leads Robert Morris with five points on the year.
With the game tied and time winding down in the second extra session, senior midfielder Dwayne Chin (North York, Ontario / Newtonbrook) found Shaffer on the top of the penaly box. Shaffer ripped a shot through the defense that found the top left corner of the net and gave the Colonials the win.
Robert Morris took a 1-0 lead in the 23rd minute when Shaffer found senior forward Jacek Przednowek (Brantford, Ontario / St. John's College) in the box for an easy tally.
Canisius tied the game late in regulation as Mariano Sapien set up the Griffs' tally by sliding a lead-pass towards Simba Aberdeen, who beat Robert Morris junior goalkeeper Matt Felice (Mississauga, Ontario / Philip Pocock) to the left side with 1:31 left.
The Colonials held a decisive 24-15 edge in shots and smaller 5-4 edge in corner kicks. Felice posted six saves while allowing just one goal. Canisius netminder Adam Catley had 10 saves.
Robert Morris returns to the pitch Tuesday, Sept. 4, by hosting Pittsburgh at the North Athletic Complex at 4:00 p.m.
