ERIE, Pa. — Saints field hockey fell by a score of 6-0 in a midweek matchup at Mercyhurst.

The first quarter saw Mercyhurst as the aggressor, as the Lakers struck first to take an early lead against D'Youville. Delaney Lentz scored for the hosts, followed by Ava Jones extending their lead with a goal assisted by Marina Evert. Despite several penalty corners and shots from the Lakers, Saints' goalkeeper Sarah Reifsnyder made multiple crucial saves to keep the game within reach. D'Youville ended the quarter trailing 2-0.

The second quarter began with Mercyhurst extending their lead as Evert scored early, making the count 3-0. D'Youville's Erica Prible attempted to respond with a shot, but it was saved by Rhyden Wheldon. The Lakers continued to press, and Finja Wunner was able to find the back of the net, pushing the score to 4-0. As the quarter progressed, D'Youville's Olivia McClaine took a shot that went wide, while Mercyhurst's offensive efforts were repeatedly met by Reifsnyder's saves. The quarter closed with the Lakers maintaining their 4-0 advantage.

In the third quarter, D'Youville's Reifsnyder made crucial saves against shots from Evert and Anna Muscat. Despite these defensive efforts, Evert managed to score again for Mercyhurst, extending their lead to 5-0. D'Youville responded with a penalty corner by Chloe Burkhard, with Carter Bower's ensuing shot being sent wide. As the quarter continued, Ella Darvalics attempted to find the net, but her shot was saved by Hailey Leisering. The quarter concluded with sustained pressure from Mercyhurst but was countered by consistent saves from Reifsnyder. The score remained 5-0 at the end of the quarter.

The fourth quarter opened with D'Youville's defense under pressure as the Lakers secured a penalty corner early in the period. As the period progressed, Reifsnyder continued to be pivotal, denying Hailey Hatfield's attempt. Despite the defensive efforts, the Lakers managed to break through with a goal by Louise Pert in the final seconds, closing out the quarter. The game concluded with the Lakers taking the 6-0 result.

Goalkeeper Reifsnyder recorded 19 saves during her 60 minutes in net, facing 25 shots. Reifsnyder currently ranks 3rd in saves per game in Division II nationally, demonstrating her skill and resilience even in challenging matches. Erica Prible, Olivia McClaine, Ella Darvalics, and Carter Bower all registered a shot on goal, contributing to the offensive efforts.

In their next game, D'Youville is back at Dobson Field to host Roberts Wesleyan University in the season finale. The matchup is set for November 1st at 7 p.m.