ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst drops home and conference opener to Merrimack in a tightly contested match, with a final score of 4-3.

The first quarter saw Mercyhurst take an early lead as Marina Evert scored the first goal of the match, marking her second goal of the season. Goalkeeper Louise Pert played a crucial role in maintaining the advantage, making multiple saves against Merrimack's offensive efforts. Despite a flurry of penalties and fouls from both teams, the Lakers managed to hold the Warriors scoreless through the quarter, ending with a 1-0 lead.

The second quarter began with Mercyhurst quickly extending their lead to 2-0 as Ava Jones tallied up her first career goal, assisted by Evert. Despite several fouls called on the Lakers, Pert made saves against Merrimack's offensive attempts. However, Merrimack capitalized on a penalty corner late in the quarter to level the score at 2-2, concluding an intense second quarter.

The third quarter commenced with rapid defensive play, highlighted by Pert making several saves, including a critical stop on a penalty stroke. Despite her efforts in goal, Merrimack scored towards the end of the third putting them ahead by one to close out the quarter.

The fourth quarter began with a quick offensive push from Mercyhurst, as Finja Wunner executed two penalty corners in the opening minutes. The Warriors extended their lead to 4-2 after a series of fouls leading to a penalty corner. The Lakers responded tenaciously, with Lola Williams netting her second career goal, assisted by Maddie Huffer, bringing the score to 4-3. Despite a late push by the Lakers the Warriors held on to the lead grabbing their first win of the season. 

Up next, the Lakers head to Colgate on Sunday, September 21 for a 1PM matchup.