Erie, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Ice Hockey team battled until the final buzzer but fell 5-2 to Robert Morris in an Atlantic Hockey showdown on Monday night at the Mercyhurst Ice Center. Despite a strong start and a shorthanded goal to tie the game, Robert Morris pulled away in the final period, dropping Mercyhurst to 2-8-0 on the season and 2-4-0 in conference play. 

How It Happened: 

Mercyhurst struck first in the opening period as Dustin Geregach scored at 3:11, assisted by Mickey Burns, giving the Lakers an early 1-0 lead. However, Robert Morris quickly responded with a goal from Gavin Gulash at 4:31 to even the score at 1-1 heading into the second period. 

The Colonials took the lead in the second period when Dominic Elliott scored at 14:51, putting Robert Morris up 2-1. The Lakers fought back with a shorthanded goal by Dustin Geregach—his second of the night—assisted by Barrett Brooks at 18:27, tying the game at 2-2. Robert Morris reclaimed the lead just before the end of the period with a power-play goal by Walter Zacher at 19:11, making it 3-2. 

In the third period, Mercyhurst pressed for the equalizer but couldn't break through the Colonials' defense. Robert Morris extended their lead with an empty-net goal from Walter Zacher at 18:48, followed by another empty-netter from Gavin Gulash at 19:40, sealing the 5-2 victory. 

Notable Performances: 

• Dustin Geregach led the Lakers with two goals, including a shorthanded tally. 

• Mickey Burns and Barrett Brooks each recorded an assist. 

• Goaltender Simon Bucheler made 28 saves, keeping the Lakers in the game with several key stops. 

Up Next: 

The Lakers will look to regroup as they continue their conference schedule, facing Sacred Heart on Friday evening.