KENT, Ohio — The Mercyhurst field hockey team opened its 2025 season on the road Friday afternoon, falling 10-1 to Kent State at Murphy-Mellis Field.
After an opening series of unsuccessful attempts by Kent State, Marina Evert registered Mercyhurst's first shot on goal of the season midway through the first quarter. The Golden Flashes responded with two unanswered goals to close out the period.
The Lakers opened the second quarter with a strong defensive effort from goalkeeper Louise Pert, who recorded one official save and two blocks. Jen Kemp added a defensive save. A minute and a half after subbing in, Evert scored Mercyhurst's first goal of the season, assisted by a well-placed cross from Anna Muscat. Kent State quickly answered with two more goals before halftime.
To start the third quarter, the Lakers made a series of substitutions, with Rhyden Wheldon entering to relieve Pert in goal. The Golden Flashes scored four unanswered goals in the period, while Hailey Hatfield registered a shot on net for Mercyhurst.
Pert returned to goal to start the fourth and stood tall against a series of penalty corners, making two flashy saves. Despite her efforts, Kent State added two more goals before the final whistle.
Up next, the Lakers will travel to Cristy Freese Field for a two-game series against Central Michigan on Sept. 5 and 7.