Syracuse (5-10-1, 4-2-1 CHA) entered its two-game weekend series in Erie, Pennsylvania tonight against conference foe, Mercyhurst (5-10-2, 4-2-1), with a dismal 5-34-3 overall record against the Lakers. SU’s lack of success against Mercyhurst continued in its 4-1 loss. This loss marks the Orange’s second in conference play and its third in a row.

SU was outshot by the Lakers, 30-21, in its loss. The Orange’s lone goal came at the 14:31 mark of the first period, when Syracuse freshman forward Victoria Klimek netted her fifth goal of the season.

Mercyhurst goalie Kennedy Blair made 20 saves in the Lakers victory. Syracuse’s Abbey Miller was back in net for the Orange after being relieved of her duties by sophomore Ady Cohen in SU’s last matchup against Clarkson. Despite saving 26 shots, Miller struggled for the second consecutive game, allowing four goals.

Mercyhurst scored three of its four goals in the first period. The first goal was scored at the 7:46 mark of the first period by Mercyhurst’s Vilma Tanskanen while the Lakers were shorthanded. Mercyhurst’s next two goals came within the next six minutes and were scored by Maggie Knott and Brooke Hartwick, respectively. The Lakers tacked on an insurance goal scored by Emma Nuutinen with 15:57 remaining in the third period.

The Orange’s lack of success on the power play plagued Syracuse in its 4-1 loss. SU was unable to take advantage of six power play opportunities, not scoring on any. The Orange has scored just one goal in its last three games.

Last year, the Orange split the season series with the Lakers and gets the chance to do the same tomorrow. SU faces Mercyhurst at 1 p.m. in a battle for sole possession of second place in CHA standings.