Greensburg, Pa. – The Mercyhurst men's soccer team opened its 2009 schedule with a 1-0 overtime loss at Seton Hill, as the Griffins broke the scoreless tie 5:16 into the first overtime session.

Seton Hill's Mike Oliver gave his team a 1-0 win at 95:16, going in unassisted for the goal against Mercyhurst keeper Diego Gustin.

In a rematch of 2008's season opener, the Lakers doubled Seton Hill's shot total during the first half, 6-3. Mercyhurst also fired three shots on target, compared with one for the Griffins. The two teams battled to a 0-0 halftime score.

Seton Hill held a slight 7-6 edge in shots during the second half, including 3-2 in shots on goal. The second half proved more physical than the first, as Mercyhurst committed 10 fouls to Seton Hill's seven, and each team was issued two yellow cards. The game remained tied through 90 minutes of play, forcing overtime, during which Oliver netted the game-winner.

Mercyhurst outshot Seton Hill 14-11 for the match, while each team took five shots on goal. The Lakers attempted eight corner kicks to the Griffins' five.

Gustin made four saves in his Mercyhurst debut. Jon DeLuca earned the shutout with five saves for the Griffins.

Billy Colton led the Lakers with four shots during the contest.

Mercyhurst falls to 0-1-0 on the season, while Seton Hill is now 1-0-0.

Mercyhurst defeated Seton Hill 3-0 Aug. 28, 2008 in last season's season-opening contest at Mercyhurst Soccer Field.

The Lakers next host NCAA Division II provisional member Urbana Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Mercyhurst went 8-0-1 at home during the 2008 campaign.

For a complete box score, please click here.