ITHACA, N.Y. – Niagara won its second straight match of the young season with a comprehensive 3-1 victory over the Cornell Big Red on Friday night.

“Today was a battle and it was about who wanted it more,” head coach Chase Brooks said. “The guys dug deep and worked hard for each other.”

Senior Carl Haworth shined on the night, playing a role in all three goals.

Niagara (2-1-0) built a 2-0 lead with two goals in a six minute span in the first half from players who each scored their second career goals. In the 22^nd minute, midfielder Mike Cunningham scored his second career goals when he put home Haworth’s cross from the right flank.  

The Purple Eagles’ second goal came on a set piece. Defender Rene DeZorzi soared over his markers and headed home Haworth’s corner kick to put NU up 2-0 after 27 minutes.

Cornell (0-1-0) snatched one back by scoring an opportunistic goal in the 35^th minute. For the rest of the match, Cornell peppered NU’s goals in search of the equalizer, including a couple of big saves by goalkeeper Brett Petricek early in the second half.

Haworth sealed the game in the 85^th minute when he slalom through the Big Red defense and finished his move with a chip over the goalie for his second goal of the season.

“It was a team effort to preserve win,” Brooks said. “Cornell came out strong in second half and I’m proud of the hard work and the ability to close out the game.”