LEWISTOWN, N.Y. -- The Mercyhurst men's hockey team dropped a 3-0 decision in their home-and-home series opener with host Niagara Friday night in Atlantic Hockey action. 

Jack Billings opened the scoring with a goal at the 10:37 mark of the first period and Niagara took a 1-0 lead to first intermission. 

After a scoreless second period, Ben Sokay extended the lead for the Purple Eagles with 9:17 left in the game. Niagara would tack on an empty net goal to set the final. 

Ethan Johnson and Geoff Kitt each tallied three shots on goal for the Lakers. Garrett Metcalf made 36 saves allowing just two goals between the pipes for the Lakers. 

Mercyhurst and Niagara close out their home-and-home series on Saturday at the Mercyhurst Ice Center. Tickets are available here or at the Ice Center beginning 90 minutes before puck drop. Faceoff is slated for 7:05 p.m.