The Robert Morris University Colonials (0-1, 0-0 NEC) came up a bit short on the first day of the regular season when they fell to the Canisius College Golden Griffins at the North Athletic Complex on Friday afternoon by a final score of 3-0.

Why it happened:

In the season opener for the Colonials, the expectations were high given that it is the first game of the season, but the team does have a lot of time to make a positive impression on the season. Of all the goals, the first goal was off a corner. The second goal was on a cross from Manuelle Cavazzoli that led to Troy Brady scoring Brady added his second goal and Canisius’s third off of a penalty kick late in the second half.

What it means:

Today’s game was a learning experience for the team as this is the first collegiate game for all the freshman on the team since they all are adjusting to playing at the college level and learning to play with each other.

Who starred:

Goalie Winter Fondi made nine saves for the Colonials, which was a bright spot for the team. As for the Golden Griffins, Brady’s two goals led the offensive charge.

Who stumbled:

The defense was non-existent as they stumbled to protect Fondi from the Griffins offense since they paved the way for a 3-0 victory for the Golden Griffins.

Who was there:

Canisius is not a part of the Northeast Conference in men’s soccer. RMU has plenty of time to prepare for NEC play as the first game in such play begins on Friday, September 28 against the Bryant University Bulldogs at Smithfield, Rhode Island in an eight-game, two-month consecutive stretch against conference opponents.

Who is next:

The RMU men’s soccer team moves on to face the St. Bonaventure Bonnies on Sunday, August 6 at 2 p.m. in Olean, N.Y.