ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Field Hockey team held on to defeat Lindenwood, 2-1, Saturday afternoon in non-conference action. Freshman Katelyn Smith (Shermans Dale, Pa. / West Perry) and sophomore Taylor Balser (Amherst, N.Y. / Amherst Central) both recorded goals in the win.

Smith got the Lakers off to a quick lead as she chipped a shot over the Lions goalkeeper at the 2:22 mark. It was her third goal of the season.

Mercyhurst would jump out to a 2-0 advantage minutes later, when Balser was rewarded a penalty stroke with 17:11 remaining in the half. Balser's shot was ripped into the upper right corner for her first goal of the year.

With the Lakers hanging on to a two goal lead, Lindenwood, pulled their goalie with 10 minutes to play, forcing another attacker on the Mercyhurst defense. The strategy would pay off for the Lions as Nicole Johnston was able to beat Laker keeper Sam Takac left side from five yards out.

Lindenwood would play with the keeper for the final two and half minutes, but Mercyhurst's defense, who was stout all game, prevailed again, not allowing the Lions to attempt another shot.

Each team recorded 16 shots with Mercyhurst placing 11 on net. Takac made eight saves as she moves to 2-4 in net this season.

The win improves Mercyhurst's record to 2-4 overall, while Lindenwood falls to 4-3.

The Lakers will host Seton Hill Wednesday, September 23, at Tullio Field. Game time is set for 4:00 p.m.