The Mercyhurst College men’s soccer has proven that they have what it takes to go all the way, winning their first three home games this season.
The Lakers suffered a well fought loss to Seton Hill University 0-1 in overtime in their season opener, but didn’t let it dampen their spirits, as Laker veterans and rookies played together seamlessly to beat Urbana University 3-0 and Houghton College 3-1 on home turf.
The Lakers also won their Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference opener against Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, 3-1, Sunday. Junior Nicholas Thompson scored a goal for the third consecutive game.
“We always have high expectations for both programs and we’re excited that another season is upon us. We want quality and consistency,” head coach Keith Cammidge said.
With these three wins, the Lakers have now won eight consecutive home games dating back to the 2008 season.
Fans will notice some new, young faces out on the field this season. Incoming freshmen Diego Gustin, Nate Stern and Austin Solomon may have some big cleats to fill, but they have already contributed to team success and promise to have successful careers with the Lakers.
“We don’t put any more pressure on newcomers with expectations. We want to give them the opportunity to settle in as quickly as possible," Cammidge said.
And settle in they have done. Taking over in goal for graduating senior Danny Mudd, Gustin made four out of five saves at their season opener against Seton Hill, helped shut out Urbana and played strong against Houghton, making three out of four saves for the win.
Against the Houghton Highlanders, Solomon assisted on a goal for Stern, his first for Mercyhurst.
Some veterans are already proving their worth to the team as well. Thompson has scored in each of the Lakers’ wins this season, and junior Billy Colton moved into sixth on the program’s all-time goal scoring list with his point against Urbana.
The Lakers will also have two games this week at home, squaring off against Ohio Valley University on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 4 p.m. and California University of Pennsylvania on Friday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m.
