Minneapolis, Minn. - The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Ice Hockey team faced a tough challenge against the third-ranked Minnesota Golden Gophers on Friday evening, ultimately falling 6-2 at 3M Arena. The Lakers showed resilience, narrowing the gap to one goal in the second period before the Gophers pulled away in the final frame. 

How It Happened: 

Minnesota opened the scoring late in the first period with two even-strength goals from Jimmy Snuggerud and Connor Kurth to take a 2-0 lead into the intermission. 

The Gophers extended their lead early in the second period with a power-play goal by Brody Lamb, but Mercyhurst responded quickly. Riley Fitzgerald put the Lakers on the board with a power-play goal at 7:09, assisted by Steven Agriogianis and Dustin Geregach. Just four minutes later, Connor Pelc cut the deficit to 3-2 with an even-strength goal assisted by Fitzgerald and Will Margel. 

Minnesota regained control with two more goals in the second period, including an even-strength tally by Matthew Wood and another from John Mittelstadt. The Gophers sealed the win with an empty-net, short-handed goal by Erik Påhlsson late in the third period. 

Notable Performances: 

• Riley Fitzgerald scored his seventh goal of the season and added an assist, leading the Lakers' offense. 

• Connor Pelc recorded his second goal of the season, continuing his strong play. 

• Carter McPhail made 39 saves in net, keeping the Lakers within striking distance for much of the game. 

Up Next: 

The Lakers (2-16-3) will conclude their series against Minnesota (16-3-2) on Saturday night at Mariucci Arena. Puck drop is set for 5 PM.