Worcester, Mass. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Ice Hockey team dropped a 4-1 decision to Holy Cross on Thursday night at the Hart Center. Despite a strong effort from goaltender Carter McPhail, who made 38 saves, the Lakers couldn't overcome an early deficit as Holy Cross controlled the game from the opening puck drop.
How It Happened:
Holy Cross wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, striking just 16 seconds into the game when Jack Stockfish found the back of the net off assists from Devin Phillips and Liam McLinskey. The Crusaders doubled their lead at 4:23 when Michael Abgrall capitalized on a defensive miscue to make it 2-0 heading into the first intermission.
After a scoreless second period, Holy Cross extended its lead to 3-0 at 3:32 of the third, with Stockfish netting his second of the night. Mercyhurst responded less than a minute later as Dominik Bartecko put the Lakers on the board at 4:19, scoring off assists from Mickey Burns and Spencer Smith.
The Lakers pushed for a late comeback but couldn't find another breakthrough. Holy Cross sealed the win with an empty-net goal from William Troutwine at 17:32, securing the 4-1 victory.
Notable Performances:
Up Next:
Mercyhurst (4-23-4, 4-16-3 AHA) will look to bounce back in game two tomorrow night. Puck drop is set for 6 PM.
