With just two games left to go in their regular season, the Mercyhurst College men’s soccer team is making every match count.

“We don’t think we are the number one team in the nation, but we have to practice, play, and enjoy playing soccer as if we were,” said freshman Diego Gustin.

Two weeks ago the men went one for two in matches against Findlay University and California University of Pennsylvania.

The Lakers defeated the Vulcans in a hard-fought 3-2 victory on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

The Lakers stumbled, falling to Findlay University in a heartbreaking 3-2 overtime road loss on Sunday, Oct. 18.

Last week, the Lakers also defeated Tiffin University 2-1, improving their record even further.

“We are nearing the end of the season. Every game from here forward is a big game,” said junior Arash Fahandezh.

But the real victory was Saturday night’s match versus Erie rival Gannon University.

The Lakers battled a tough physical game, with an unfortunate amount of injuries to Mercyhurst players.

Despite the loss of some key players, the Lakers were up 2-0 heading into the second half.

Pushing forward through the brutal rain, Mercyhurst knocked in three more goals and came out on top, 5-1, over the Knights.

The win puts the Lakers first in divisional standings, three points ahead of Slippery Rock.

The win also marked the 100th victory for head coach Keith Cammidge at the helm of the men’s soccer team.

The team’s goal before the season started was to win the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, and the team says they are in great position to accomplish that goal.

“The talent is definitely there, and if we just keep working hard and playing together as a team, anything is possible,” said Fahandezh.

The Lakers improved to 13-4 on the season, 6-1 in PSAC West play.

“We really want this, and we will give war to any one that wants to take it away from us,” Gustin said.

The Lakers finish off their season Friday, Oct. 30, at Lake Erie College at 3 p.m.