Moon Township, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Lacrosse team will return to action this week, traveling to in-state opponent Robert Morris in a Northeast Conference matchup. The Lakers (1-7) are aiming to snap a three-game skid, while the Colonials (5-4) enter the matchup winners of two in a row. 

History 

Saturday will mark the first ever matchup between the Lakers and the Colonials.   

Laker Outlook 

Mercyhurst continues to show improvement despite recent results. The Lakers are coming off an 18-12 loss to VMI, where they were led by Jérémi Phoenix-Lefebvre's four goals and Antonio Rossetti's five-point performance. 

On the season, Ethan Landymore (19G, 3A), Ryan Mahoney (15G, 8A), and Phoenix-Lefebvre (14G, 9A) have paced the offense. The Lakers are averaging 10.5 goals per game, but defensively have struggled, allowing 14.8 goals per game and being outshot 365 to 292 on the year. 

Possession has been a challenge for the Lakers, who have won just 30.8% of faceoffs (70-of-227). Improving at the X will be a major factor in competing with a possession-efficient RMU squad. 

Scouting the Colonials 

Robert Morris (5-4) brings a balanced attack and a strong faceoff unit into the contest. The Colonials are averaging 11.0 goals per game and shooting at a 30% conversion rate, with top scorers Calum Brennan (22G, 7A) and David Burr (19G, 10A) leading the way. 

Defensively, RMU has held opponents to 11.3 goals per game, and goalie Nate Fechter has been solid between the pipes with a .548 save percentage and a 11.19 GAA. 

The Colonials excel in faceoffs, winning 55.5% (126-of-227), which could present a problem for a Mercyhurst squad that has struggled to gain possession. 

Keys to the Game 

• Faceoff Battle – RMU's success at the X could give them a major possession edge. Mercyhurst must close the gap to generate more offensive opportunities. 

• Protect the Crease – RMU is aggressive near the net. The Lakers' defense will need to limit interior looks and force outside shots. 

• Goalie Performance – Mercyhurst goalie Tyler Moritzen (93 saves, .474 SV%) will need to be sharp against an efficient Colonial offense. 

• Discipline on Defense – The Lakers will look to avoid unnecessary penalties and capitalize on RMU's average man-up unit (9-for-31, 29%). 

Up Next 

Following the Robert Morris matchup, Mercyhurst will return to Saxon Stadium for a matchup against Cleveland State.