Erie, Pa. - The Lakers looked to go perfect in the first full week of February, but were denied by the Vulcans Saturday night. Cal competed down the stretch and eventually ended up taking the lead, and game, by a final of 76-71

How it Happened

First Half

The Lakers started off a little slow as Cal scored the opening three points of the game. A three-point make from Jeff Planutis helped Mercyhurst tie the score at three with 17:31 on the clock, getting the Lakers in the offensive flow.

The remainder of the opening half was a close one with neither team able to gain a major advantage. There were four lead changes during the first canto while the lead never grew to more than eight for either team. That lead came for the Lakers in their last possession as Aidan Reichert hit a three to end the quarter and give Mercyhurst a 36-28 advantage.

Second Half

Coach Manchel's crew came out of the break the better team as they went on an 8-4 run to begin the second canto to give Mercyhurst their first double-digit lead of the game. The shot that ended up giving the Lakers some cushion came courtesy of Michael Bradley whose three made it a 44-32 game.

The Vulcans managed to claw their way back thanks to a 17-4 run as they cut deficit to one at 49-50 with 10:42 remaining in the game. From that point on, the two teams traded blows as the score was never separated by more than five the rest of the way. It was Cal who ended up landing more of the blows with the Vulcans claiming the five-point win.

Highlights 

Jeff Planutis and Michael Bradley both proved to be offensive forces as they scored 21 points apiece. Planutis finished 7-12 from the floor while going 6-7 from the free throw line and collecting five rebounds. Bradley was 8-13 while adding four rebounds, three assists, and two steals to his ledger.

Playoff Picture

Mercyhurst had previously clinched their spot in postseason play, but this loss puts them in jeopardy of having to go on the road to begin their tournament run. They are now tied for second in the PSAC West with UPJ at 14-4 in the conference while the Lakers are 18-4 overall and the Mountain Cats are 18-6.

Next Game

The Lakers see UPJ in their next contest with the two teams set to meet next Wednesday, February 15th, at 7:30 p.m. It is the middle game of a three-game home stand for Mercyhurst as they host Clarion afterward on Saturday, February 18th.