CLEVELAND — The Mercyhurst men's lacrosse team (2-8, 0-1) fell to Cleveland State (4-4, 1-0) with a final score of 14-6 on Saturday at Krenzler Field. Despite a four-goal effort in the third quarter, the Lakers could not overcome the home team's offensive surge.

The Lakers began the first quarter with a strong offensive play as Colin Tardif scored the opening goal at 10:43, assisted by Chase Petschke. Tardif's performance follows his recent achievement of scoring 4 or more goals in 2 consecutive games, showcasing his consistent offensive prowess. After winning the ensuing faceoff, the Green and Blue continued to apply pressure but were met with solid goalkeeping from Cleveland State's Oliver Vanyo, who made several crucial saves.

The Vikings responded with a series of goals, starting with Brennen Hickey's goal at 5:39, assisted by Landon Whalen. Despite the Lakers efforts to regain control, including ground ball pickups and clears, Cleveland State capitalized on its opportunities, adding goals from Creed McDonald and another from Hickey before the quarter ended. The first quarter concluded with Cleveland State leading 4-1, as they found their momentum in the latter stages.

Cleveland State opened the second quarter with a scoring run, increasing its lead with goals from Ethan Erker and Xander Johnson. Despite a turnover by the home team, the Lakers faced challenges in breaking through the defense until Tardif found the back of the net at 9:02.

Following Tardif's goal, Cleveland State continued to apply pressure, scoring twice more, including a goal by Hickey. Mercyhurst's attempts to close the gap were thwarted, with Matthew Belles hitting the post in the final minutes. The quarter ended with the Vikings leading 10-2.

The Lakers initiated the third quarter with momentum as Ryan Mahoney scored early at 13:23, cutting into Cleveland State's lead. The Lakers continued to press, with Tardif adding another goal at 08:50, assisted by Darrin Santos, further narrowing the deficit.

Midway through the quarter, Dj Neer found the scored top bin at 05:40, maintaining the pressure. The Vikings responded with a goal of its own at 04:46, but Mercyhurst quickly countered with another goal from Tardif, assisted by Mahoney, at 00:29, ending the quarter with a 4-1 scoring advantage. The quarter concluded with the Lakers trailing 11-6.

The fourth quarter began with Cleveland State intensifying their offensive efforts, narrowly missing the goalpost twice early. Mercyhurst's defense, led by Tyler Moritzen, made crucial saves to keep the score manageable. Despite solid defensive plays, Cleveland State capitalized on their chances, scoring twice to extend their lead.

The Lakers struggled to convert their opportunities, with standout efforts from players like Petschke and Tanner Harrison falling short due to Cleveland State's strong goalkeeping. A late man-up situation for Cleveland State resulted in another goal, sealing the quarter. The game concluded with Cleveland State holding a 14-6 lead over Mercyhurst.

Tardif led the offense with four goals on nine shots, including one unassisted goal. His performance in this game continues his streak of scoring 4 or more goals in consecutive games. Mahoney contributed to the scoring with one goal and one assist, taking four shots with two on target. Neer added a goal from two shots, both of which were on goal. Santos provided an assist and made two shots on goal.

The Lakers will host VMI next weekend on March 21.