Canton, NY - Though the team reached overtime three times in the past six games, the Clarkson University Men's Soccer team has struggled on offense as of late, going 460-plus minutes without a goal, but the Golden Knights found their stride against SUNY Canton, scoring early and then holding on for a 2-0 shutout win Wednesday night.

The Golden Knights improved to 2-9-3 overall and will finish off the home portion of the conference schedule on Saturday when they host Skidmore College. SUNY Canton fell to 6-7-1 on the season.

Clarkson last scored early in the second half in a 2-2 tie against Vassar College in late-September, and endured some tough games in a 0-0 scoreless tie at SUNYIT and a 1-0 overtime defeat at the hands of RIT. However, the Knights were able to get on the scoreboard early thanks to Brian Buckner (Farmington, NY). Junior Angelo DiFrancesco (Penfield, NY) sent a pass through the penalty area and found Buckner on the opposite side where the senior was able to finish off the play at 16:38 for his first goal of the season. Clarkson's defense kept the Kangaroos scoreless and limited their opportunities despite six first-half corner kicks.

DiFrancesco earned his first goal of the year midway through the second half, providing some needed insurance for Clarkson. Classmate Kurt Knolle (East Aurora, NY) earned the assist by passing the ball of to DiFrancesco in the 68th minute. The Knights' defense was even more impressive in the second half, holding the Kangaroos without a shot in the final 45 minutes.

Senior goalkeeper Saverino Spagnolo (Ottawa, ONT) notched his third shutout of the season by making four saves for the Golden Knights, while William Bananhene made five saves for the Kangaroos. Clarkson enjoyed a 12-4 edge in shots, but trailed in corner kick chances 7-5.