STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Despite a strong defensive showing and consistent effort throughout, Mercyhurst came up short in a 4-0 loss to La Salle in a neutral-site matchup Sunday at Penn State.

Both teams opened with solid defensive organization, drawing early fouls as they settled into the match. Jen Kemp and Maddie Huffer each had shot attempts off a late first-quarter penalty corner, but the La Salle defense managed to keep the Lakers off the board. After one quarter, La Salle held a 1-0 lead.

In the second quarter, Kemp made a key defensive save to deny a scoring opportunity, and goalkeeper Rhyden Wheldon recorded several stops to keep the game within reach. Hailey Hatfield added an offensive push with a shot that went just wide late in the half. At halftime, La Salle led 2-0.

Mercyhurst continued to apply pressure in the third quarter. Catherine Hudak and Marina Evert each generated looks on goal, and the Lakers' backline stayed active, limiting second-chance efforts and forcing turnovers. The physical tone of the game increased, with La Salle drawing both a green and yellow card. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Lakers trailed 4-0.

In the final frame, Mercyhurst delivered one of its strongest defensive stretches, holding firm during a series of La Salle penalty corners. Finja Wunner helped create a late opportunity with a well-placed corner, but Kemp's shot was blocked before it could reach the cage. The game ended with La Salle taking a 4-0 win.

Up next, the Lakers return home to take on Fairfield on October 17 at 1:00PM.