FAIRFIELD, CONN. – In its first meeting with Sacred Heart as conference foe's, Niagara (2-6-1, 0-1-0 MAAC) fell to the Pioneers 3-1 Saturday afternoon to open MAAC play.  
 
How it Happened
The Purple and White went down a goal early as Sacred Heart found the back of the net 21-seconds into the contest on an early penalty kick opportunity.
 
Over the next 30-plus minutes of action, Jamie Barry would make a trio of saves to keep NU within one goal, however, the Pioneers took a two-goal lead over the Purple Eagles in the 34th minute of action.
 
The Pioneers made it a three-goal game in the 68th minute of play, but NU would respond quickly as a foul in the 18-yard box led to a penalty kick for Niagara. Gerarad Lopex Forner's attempt would be saved but Jeremy Talsma would find the back of the net off the rebound to get the goal back for Niagara.
 
The Purple Eagles went on to record two shots on goal in the final 15-minutes of play, but couldn't narrow the gap as the game ended in favor of the Pioneers.
 
Niagara Notes
• Saturday marked the first meeting all-time between Niagara and Sacred Heart.
• Talsma's goal in the 69th minute was the first of his career.
• Mick Bastiaenen was awarded the assist on the play, marking his first point as a Purple Eagle.
• Barry made nine saves, his fourth game with at least eight stops this season.
• The Purple Eagles finished the game with one corner attempt, marking the third time this season NU has been held to one corner.
 
Up Next
Niagara will host Siena for its first league home match on Saturday, Oct. 5.
 
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