Lions Fall to Mercyhurst; Defeat Salem For First Win

ERIE, Pa. - The Penn State Behrend men's water polo team lost to Mercyhurst 13-3 before defeating Salem International 19-9 for their first win of the season on Saturday afternoon.

In the first match of the day, the Lakers offense was too much for the Lions to overcome.  Mercyhurst got out to a commanding 6-0 first period lead and never let Behrend get within seven.  Nic Pabich (Lake Forest, IL/Lake Forest) provided all the offense for the Lions.  Pabich netted a hat trick to push his season total to nine goals.

Behrend (1-8) was able to put the defeat behind them quickly as they came out strong in their second match of the day.  The Lions beat Salem International 19-9 to notch their first win of the season.  Behrend exploded for a season high 19 goals with 10 different players scoring. 

The Lions never trailed in the game using six goals in the first and second period each to take control with a 12-7 halftime lead.  Adam Glick (Bonita, CA/Bonita Vista) led the way for Behrend by scoring a career high four goals.  Hunter Backenstose (Downingtown, PA/Downingtown East) and Matthew Johnson (Houston, TX/Cypress Falls) each recorded their first career hat tricks.  

Two freshmen on the squad had memorable days.  John Ingari (York, PA/Central York) and Garrett Wagner (State College, PA/State College) each contributed to the offensive outburst with their first collegiate goals.  

The Lions strong second half defensive effort sealed the game by allowing only two goals while knocking home seven.

Behrend will be back in the water tomorrow for a match against Gannon.  Game time is 2 p.m.