NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. – The Mercyhurst women's bowling team traveled to Niagara Falls to participate in the Fall Open for Niagara University. After facing strong competition in Youngstown, the Lakers looked to put in strong performances against some familiar foes on the road.
 
In Baker competition, the Lakers won their first two matchups with Pitt Bradford and fellow-NEC member Le Moyne 1,027-761 and 987-944 respectively. After falling to Niagara, the Lakers won four out of their five traditional matches in quick succession.
 
In Sunday's championship bracket, the Lakers found themselves facing off against William Smith, whom they had previously defeated 941-827. In a war of attrition, the Lakers managed to pull away and win their series 4-3 and claim 3^rd place in the tournament.
 
The Lakers were led by rookie Allison Beighley, who averaged 204 per game in traditional competition, landing her in 4^th place in the tournament's individual standings. Her strongest performance came in the traditional match against William Smith, where she threw 222, a team-high for the weekend.
 
Sophomore bowler Lily Watts also turned in a strong performance for the Lakers, averaging 191.8 per game in traditional competition, placing 9^th in the tournament.
 
The Lakers were also supported by standout junior Tia Germanich and freshman Makayla Boyd, who both finished withing the tournament top-20.
 
The Lakers finished the weekend with a 7-2 record that earned them 3^rd place behind Niagara and Bryant. Through Baker competition, the Lakers struck down 3,954 total pins while also collecting 4,704 in traditional and 1,414 in their championship bracket competition, bringing their grand total to 10,077 pins. Collectively, the Lakers posted a team average of 193.8 per game.
 
Next, the Lakers will travel to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to take part in the Duquesne Invitational, beginning Friday, November 6^th.