BUFFALO, N.Y. (August 29, 2021) - UC Riverside completed their two-game road trip in New York to open the season with a thrilling 2-1 extra time win over Canisius at Demske Sports Complex in Buffalo, New York.

With all six points in hand after the weekend, the Highlanders are now 2-0 for the second consecutive season.

"It's always challenging to get wins on the road," Highlanders head coach Tim Cupello said. "I thought we played really well in both games, and I'm happy the guys get to feel the joy of two wins. I'm especially proud of the mental fortitude it took to respond after conceding late and still be able to get the win in overtime. I think both wins were well deserved and earned."

UCR played aggressively down the wings out of the opening whistle, not seeing a shot on net in the first 15 minutes but earning three corner kicks in the process. Brendan Clark went for goal in the 17th minute, but the strong right-footed midfielder was called offsides. Noah Lopez's shot a few moments later sailed wide after he got the final touch on a set piece from Leopoldo Hernandez. 

Clark had another chance in the 25th minute, stemming from the foot of Herminio Padilla. Clark's header in front of the net went over the crossbar. 

The rest of the first half for UCR replicated Thursday's first-half effort on the ball though, breaking down Canisius's defensive unit for a 12-3 shot advantage and 6-1 corner kick advantage at the halftime break. UCR ended the afternoon with 21 shots, marking the second straight game with at least 17 for the Highlanders.

UCR faced a more stout second-half defense for the second straight game, and again did well to pick out passing lanes and scoring opportunities. The Highlanders mustered just four shots in the opening 20 minutes, but the offensive dry spell would not last. 

Issa Badawiya broke the deadlock in the 66th minute on a through ball from Brendan Clark, before Canisius found an equalizer in the 86th minute to take the Highlanders' second game of the season to extra time.

Four minutes after subbing on in extra time, Andrew Alexander gave UCR all six points from the New York road trip with the game-winner in the 98th minute.

"I'm happy for Andrew," Cupello said. "He's a true competitor that's embraces these moments. It's been a good start to his college career."

The Highlanders now make the cross-country trip back to the West Coast for a 6:00 p.m. kickoff at San Diego on September 3. Live stats are available on www.usdtoreros.com and the game will be streamed on the WCC Network.