Louisville, Ky. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Lacrosse team opened their 2025 season with a hard-fought battle but ultimately fell 21-11 to Bellarmine on Saturday afternoon. Despite a strong second-quarter rally, the Lakers were unable to overcome a dominant offensive performance from the Knights. 

How It Happened: 

Bellarmine took control early, jumping out to a 5-0 lead after the first quarter. The Lakers responded in the second quarter, outscoring the Knights 6-4 behind goals from Ethan Landymore (2), Ryan Mahoney (2), Chase Petschke, and Jeremi Phoenix-Lefebvre to cut the deficit to 9-6 at halftime. 

The third quarter proved to be the turning point, as Bellarmine exploded for 11 goals, while Mercyhurst managed only one. The Knights' offensive outburst pushed their lead to 20-7 heading into the final frame. 

The Lakers showed resilience in the fourth quarter, netting four goals—two from Landymore, and one each from Josh Mills and Antonio Rossetti—but Bellarmine's early advantage was too much to overcome. 

Notable Performances: 

• Ethan Landymore led the Lakers with four goals, continuing his offensive dominance from last season. 

• Jeremi Phoenix-Lefebvre contributed a team-high five assists, along with one goal. 

• Ryan Mahoney recorded two goals, while Josh Mills, Chase Petschke, and Antonio Rossetti each added one. 

• Jack Murphy tallied two assists in the fourth quarter. 

• Goalkeepers Tyler Moritzen and Jaret Jawor combined for 13 saves. 

By the Numbers: 

• Shots: Mercyhurst 38, Bellarmine 50 

• Shots on Goal: Mercyhurst 20, Bellarmine 34 

• Faceoffs Won: Mercyhurst 8, Bellarmine 26 

• Ground Balls: Mercyhurst 9, Bellarmine 32 

• Turnovers: Mercyhurst 18, Bellarmine 21 

Up Next: 

Mercyhurst (0-1) will look to bounce back next weekend when they travel to UMass Lowell.  Faceoff is set for 12 PM.