BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Mercyhurst men's ice hockey team (0-12-0, 0-6-0) fell to Canisius University (6-6-1, 2-4-1), 4–3, despite a late push with two third-period goals.

Mercyhurst opened the first period by securing the initial faceoff, setting an early tone of competitiveness. Despite several attempts on goal, including a shot by Will Schumacher saved by Canisius' goalie, the Lakers were unable to capitalize on these opportunities.

The Golden Griffins managed to take an early lead at 1:25 with a goal.The Lakers continued to contest faceoffs effectively and managed to block several shots, maintaining pressure throughout the period. However, despite their efforts, Mercyhurst ended the period trailing 1–0.

The second period began with the Lakers winning the initial faceoff, but they faced early pressure from the Golden Griffins, who capitalized on their opportunities. Canisius opened their scoring in the period with a goal at 3:44, shortly after the power play ended. The Green and Blue continued to press offensively but could not convert during their power-play opportunities.

Canisius extended their lead with a power play goal making it a three-goal advantage. Despite multiple attempts on goal, including a blocked shot by John Larkin and missed chances by Jacob LeBlanc, the Lakers could not find the back of the net.

Canisius added their fourth and final goal of the night with 7:11 left in the period. Brendan Lamb quickly responded for the Lakers with an unassisted goal at 6:32, cutting the deficit to three goals. The Green and Blue maintained pressure but could not close the gap further by the end of the period. The period ended with Canisius leading 4–1.

The Lakers began the third period down by two goals, but quickly sought to change the momentum. Christian Kocsis put the puck in the back of the net with 12 minutes remaining. After review, the goal was called off for offsides. The reversal did not hinder the Lakers, as four minutes later Schumacher scored an even-strength goal at 11:38, with assists from Spencer Smith and Andrew LeBlanc, narrowing the gap to two goals.

Less than two minutes Later, Tyler DesRochers' slap shot got past the Canisius net minder. DesRochers was assisted by A.LeBlanc and J.Leblanc, bringing Mercyhurst within striking distance. Despite continued offensive pressure and a strategic timeout late in the period where goaltender Sal Evola was pulled, the Lakers were unable to level the score before time expired, concluding the game trailing 4-3.

DesRochers scored a goal and blocked a shot, contributing significantly to the team's effort. Lamb also found the net, adding a goal and winning 10 faceoffs, showcasing his effectiveness in the circle. A.LeBlanc recorded two assists, aiding in the team's offensive plays. Will Schumacher tallied a goal and registered a plus-minus of +3, demonstrating his impact on the ice. The Lakers outshot the Golden Griffins 36-22, putting up 31 shots between the second and third periods.

The Lakers will be back at the LECOM Harborcenter again tomorrow at 7:00p.m. as they face the Golden Griffins in the second game of the series.