ERIE, Pa. — Two goals were not enough to lift the Mercyhurst men's ice hockey team over Union as the Lakers fell 5-2.
The first period began with Mercyhurst establishing early defensive resilience, blocking multiple shots from Union.
Trent Sambrook and
John Larkin were instrumental in denying scoring opportunities, with
Charles-Edward Gravel securing key saves to maintain a clean sheet early on.
Despite the Lakers' efforts, Union broke through midway through the period scoring at 8:44, followed by a second goal at 6:55. The Lakers responded with increased offensive pressure, generating several shot attempts but unable to capitalize against Union's goaltending.
As the period concluded, Mercyhurst gained a power play opportunity with 12 seconds left but could not convert before the buzzer. The period ended with Union leading 2-0.
The second period saw the Garnet Chargers extend their lead with a goal at 13:55. Despite this setback, Mercyhurst's defense, led by netminder Gravel, withstood multiple shots to limit further damage from Union's offense.
The Lakers responded late in the period as
Will Schumacher found the back of the net at 2:48, scoring his first collegiate goal, with helpers from
Francesco Iasenza and
Brendan Lamb, cutting the deficit to two goals. The period concluded with Union maintaining a 3-1 lead, setting the stage for a competitive third frame.
The Lakers began the third period by maintaining pressure, with
Connor Pelc and
Dominik Bartecko taking early shots that were saved by Union's goaltender. Despite being on the penalty kill following an interference call on Iasenza, the Green and Blue's defense, led by Gravel, managed to keep Union scoreless during their power play.
Midway through the frame, Bartecko scored an even-strength goal assisted by
Ryan Coughlin to bring the Lakers within one, cutting the deficit to 3-2. Union quickly responded with a goal of their own, extending their lead to 4-2.
Union solidified their lead with an additional goal making it 5-2. Mercyhurst continued to challenge Union's defense but could not alter the scoreboard further. The frame concluded with Union holding a 5-2 advantage.
Bartecko scored one goal and recorded two shots on goal. Lamb contributed an assist and excelled at faceoffs, winning 80 percent of his attempts.
Spencer Smith also made a strong impact in the faceoff circle with a 61 percent success rate. Gravel was busy in goal, making 40 saves.
The Green and Blue fell to 0-3-0 overall after a 5-2 defeat. Union (NY) improved to 1-0-1 on the season with their victory.
The Lakers will face the Garnet Chargers Saturday at 5:00 p.m. as they finish their weekend home series.
