Pioneers Battle Tough But Fall in Home Opener

Buffalo State defeated Alfred State 2-1 in a spirited battle in the Pioneers home opener. The Bengals improve to 5-2-1 on the year while the Pioneers are 2-4.

Bass Sarr scored the lone goal of the 1st half when he scored 11:27 into the game after a scramble in front. Sarr picked up the ball and flicked it into the net.

Brandon Galanti made it 2-0 in the 75th minute when the Bengals took advantage of a quick restart after a Pioneer foul. Tristan Myers sent a long pass that led to the breakaway opportunity that Galanti finished.

In the 81st minute, the Pioneers got on the board when Kory Zimmer (Livonia) found the back of the net for the first time this season. Zimmer took the ball after Tyler Landries (Genesee Valley) passed it off the GK's foot leading to the open net.

Alfred State continued to put pressure on to tie the contest but could not get the equalizer.

Buffalo State held a 14 to 9 shot advantage in the game but the Pioneers held a 6 to 5 advantage in the 2nd half. William Banahene made four saves to earn the victory while Jacob Bartz (West Seneca) made three saves for Alfred State.

The Pioneers continue their homestand on Saturday when they host SUNY Canton at 3 p.m. The game will follow the women's contest between the two schools that starts at 1 p.m.