ERIE, Pa. — The Mercyhurst women's lacrosse team dropped their midweek NEC contest to FDU, 13–6, on Wednesday at Saxon Stadium. Despite the loss, the Lakers managed two player-up goals in the third quarter.

The game commenced with the Lakers gaining the initial possession through a draw control by Whitley Easton. Despite an early turnover, the team responded as Camryn Trybuskiewicz scored a player-up goal at 8:27, assisted by Nicole Hetzer, leveling the score at 1–1. Maggie Allen's efforts in goal were notable, with multiple saves, but the Knights managed to regain the lead with a goal from Mia Devino at 6:51. The first quarter concluded with the Lakers trailing 2–1.

The Lakers struck first in the second quarter when Brynn Hall scored with an assist from Easton at 6:25, marking Hall's first goal of the season. Despite this early momentum, FDU responded quickly, leveling the score with a goal by Riley Eaton at 3:50. The Laker's defensive efforts, including a save by Allen, couldn't prevent the Knights from taking the lead when Brielle McInaw scored with 32 seconds left in the quarter. The quarter concluded with the Lakers trailing FDU, 4–2.

In the third quarter, Mercyhurst's Emma Cimino initiated the scoring with a player-up goal at 12:20, narrowing the gap. Easton followed with two goals, including a free position shot at 3:32, bringing the home team within striking distance. Despite the Lakers' efforts, FDU managed to outscore them with four goals in the quarter, leading to a score of 8–5. The third quarter ended with FDU securing the lead.

The Lakers faced a challenging fourth quarter as the Knights offense gained momentum early, with McInaw scoring twice to extend FDU's lead. Despite the pressure, the Lakers' defense forced multiple turnovers, with Katie Gleason and Payton Platz each causing a key turnover. In the final minutes, Mercyhurst's Katie Napier broke through the defense to score, narrowing the gap slightly. The game concluded with FDU securing a 13–6 victory over the Lakers.

Easton led the Mercyhurst charge with two goals and an assist, converting on two of her three shots. Cimino added to the offense with a goal on five shots, four of which were on target. Napier contributed a goal, finding the net on both of her shot attempts. Allen stood out defensively, making 12 saves despite allowing 13 goals.

The Lakers will be on the road to D.C. this Saturday as they face off with Howard.