BUFFALO, N.Y. (Interstat) — Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play resumes Friday as the Fairfield Stags visit the Canisius Golden Griffins at Koessler Athletic Center.

Fairfield (8-6) enters looking to rebound from a 70-66 home loss to Saint Peter’s on Monday. The Stags had won three of their previous four games, including an 84-70 victory at Central Connecticut on Dec. 18. Canisius (5-8) seeks to end a four-game skid, most recently a 103-59 road loss to Duquesne on Dec. 22.

A key matchup will feature Fairfield’s Brandon Benjamin against Canisius’ Kahlil Singleton. Benjamin, a consistent force for the Stags, is averaging 17.4 points and 7.2 rebounds over his last five games. He posted a 21-point performance in the loss to Saint Peter’s. Singleton leads the Golden Griffins’ backcourt, averaging 11.4 points per game this season. He scored 20 points in a win at Maine on Dec. 13 but was held to 13 in the loss to Duquesne.

Fairfield’s offense runs through Benjamin and guard Braden Sparks, who scored 22 points in Monday’s defeat. The Stags have shown scoring punch, topping 80 points in four games this season. Canisius has struggled offensively during its losing streak, failing to reach 60 points in three of the four losses. The Golden Griffins will need a stronger defensive effort after allowing an average of 86.5 points in their last two contests.

The Stags hold the historical edge, winning seven of the last ten meetings. However, Canisius won the most recent matchup last season. Friday’s game is the first of two scheduled between the teams this MAAC season, with the rematch set for Jan. 24 in Fairfield, Connecticut.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST. Fairfield travels to face Niagara on Sunday, while Canisius hosts Sacred Heart.