ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst was edged out by Stonehill, 22-15, at Saxon Stadium despite a strong passing performance from Mercyhurst with 255 yards and two touchdowns.
 
Stonehill (3-5, 2-1 NEC) got out to a strong start, driving down the field 66 yards in seven plays after receiving the opening kickoff. The Skyhawks completed a 23-yard pass to the endzone, but missed the extra point, going up 6-0.
 
The Lakers (3-6, 2-2 NEC) offensive efforts were hindered by penalties, resulting in a punt after a short possession. Stonehill capitalized on the short field, adding another touchdown pass to extend their lead. Despite strong defensive pressure from the Lakers, including two quarterback hurries by Kyler Laing, the quarter closed with Stonehill leading 13-0.
 
The second quarter began with a crucial defensive stand by Mercyhurst, as Jonas King and Anthony Mackey combined to limit Stonehill's advance near the goal line, ultimately forcing them to settle for a 19-yard field goal. The Green and Blue responded effectively with a dynamic drive led by quarterback Adam Urena, who connected with Ayron Rodriguez for a 21-yard touchdown pass, reducing the deficit. Max Young's extra point brought the score to 16-7.
 
Following the touchdown, the Mercyhurst defense again held firm, leading to a Stonehill punt. On the resulting possession, the Lakers moved the ball to Stonehill's 26-yard line, but the drive stalled. Stonehill capitalized on their final possession of the half with a 44-yard field goal, extending their lead to 19-7 as the quarter concluded.
 
The third quarter began with Mercyhurst initiating a promising drive with Urena completing a 22-yard pass to Braydon Black, advancing to midfield. Despite the momentum, the drive stalled, resulting in a turnover on downs at the Stonehill 44-yard line. As Stonehill moved into the red zone, a crucial defensive play by Keon'te Huguely sacked the Skyhawks quarterback, followed by an interception by Adonis Marshall, which halted Stonehill's scoring opportunity.
 
The Lakers, taking over at their own 3-yard line, embarked on a steady drive. Urena connected with Evan Van Dyke for a 20-yard gain, and a pass interference penalty against Stonehill further propelled the team forward. However, the series ended with an interception, returning Stonehill possession. The Lakers' defense responded, forcing Stonehill into consecutive penalties and a punt, allowing the home team to regain control.
 
In the closing minutes, Mercyhurst's offense continued to push with a series of short passes, including a 22-yard completion to Taylor Wright-Rawls, moving deep into Stonehill territory. The quarter concluded with the Green and Blue trailing 19-7, but exhibiting a strong defensive stand and persistent offensive efforts.
 
The Lakers began the fourth quarter with momentum, advancing to Stonehill's 15-yard line on a 10-yard rush by Brian Trobel. Despite a strong drive, a false start penalty and a subsequent turnover on downs halted their progress. The quarter continued with Stonehill extending their lead on a 26-yard field goal, bringing the score to 22-7.
 
The Green and Blue responded with a determined drive, starting at their own 37-yard line. Urena led the team with a series of short completions, culminating in a 6-yard touchdown pass to Joe Kerbacher with under a minute remaining. Mercyhurst added a successful two-point conversion, narrowing the score to 22-15.
 
With little time remaining, the Lakers attempted an onside kick, but Stonehill secured possession and ran out the clock. The game concluded with Stonehill ahead, 22-15.
 
Urena completed 29 of 41 passes for 255 yards and two touchdowns. Rodriguez contributed 30 rushing yards on four attempts and added a touchdown reception. Jake Miller led the defense with 10 total tackles. Van Dyke made a notable impact with six receptions for 73 yards.