STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. —The Mercyhurst men's lacrosse team (2-9, 0-3) narrowly fell to Wagner College (4-5, 2-1) with a final score of 7–6 on Saturday at Hameline Field. The Lakers mounted a strong fourth-quarter surge, scoring three goals, but ultimately fell short in overtime. 

Mercyhurst initiated the first quarter with Lincoln Norfolk winning the faceoff and quickly gaining possession. The team maintained early control as Benjamin Schellinger and Drew Pagano secured ground balls, but shots on goal by Keenan De Wit and Braeden Mastine were saved by Wagner's Angus Snow. Despite several clear attempts and defensive efforts by Brenton Paladino, the Green and Blue struggled to convert opportunities into points.

The Seahawks capitalized on their possessions, opening the scoring with a goal and extending its advantage. Mercyhurst continued to test Wagner's defense with multiple shots, including attempts by Ryan Mahoney and Mason Blakeman, but Snow remained solid in goal. As the quarter concluded, Mercyhurst trailed Wagner 2–0.

The Lakers began the second quarter with a strong faceoff performance, as Boden Clark won against Dylan Dwyer, leading to an early ground ball pickup by Brice Beetow. Despite initial offensive efforts, including a shot by Mahoney, Wagner capitalized with a goal putting the Lakers on the back foot. However, the Lakers quickly responded with a goal by Keenan De Wit at 11:23, leveling the momentum.

The Lakers continued to challenge the Seahawk's defense, with several shot attempts including a man-up goal by Darrin Santos, assisted by Chase Petschke, narrowing the gap after Wagner had extended its lead with a goal from Smith Callaghan. Throughout the quarter, Tyler Moritzen's saves were crucial in maintaining the Lakers' position in the game. The quarter concluded with a 4–2 score in favor of Wagner, as Mercyhurst matched its opponent goal for goal in the quarter.

Mercyhurst opened the third quarter with strong defensive play, highlighted by Ryan Boe's successful turnover against Wagner's Jake Mitchell. The defensive effort paid off when Colin Tardif scored with an assist from Ryan Mahoney at 3:51, bringing the score within one at 3–4.

However, Wagner responded with a man-up goal by Smith Callaghan at 1:27, regaining the lead. Despite Mercyhurst's persistent attempts, including a shot by Lincoln Davidson, the quarter concluded with Wagner maintaining a 5–3 advantage.

The Lakers started the fourth quarter with a strong offensive push, winning the faceoff and immediately putting pressure on Wagner's defense. Despite a crossbar hit and multiple shots, Mercyhurst's persistence paid off when Braeden Mastine scored with an assist from Mason Blakeman at 11:10, bringing the score back within one at 4-5.

Continuing their momentum, Mercyhurst took the lead at 9:57 with another goal by Mastine. DJ Neer extended the lead further with a goal at 7:58. Wagner responded at 6:34 with a goal, tying the game again. Both teams exchanged possessions without further scoring, and the fourth quarter concluded with a tied score at 6–6.

In overtime, Mercyhurst's momentum was briefly halted despite a strong defensive effort. After a turnover by Wagner, Drew Pagano secured a ground ball, setting up a successful clear for the Lakers. However, shots by Chase Petschke and Darrin Santos were blocked and saved, preventing the Green and Blue from equalizing. Wagner capitalized on its possession, with Danny McMahon scoring from an assist by Terry Farrell. The period closed with Wagner maintaining a 7–6 lead.

Mastine led the team's efforts with two goals from seven shots, including an unassisted goal. Keenan De Wit contributed with a goal on three attempts. Darrin Santos added a man-up goal, converting one of his four shots on target. DJ Neer efficiently scored with his only shot, marking another unassisted goal for the team.

Mercyhurst has a record of 2-9 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Wagner holds a record of 4-5 overall and 2-1 in conference play.

The Lakers will travel to LIU next weekend to take on the Sharks on Saturday, April 4.