October 31, 2025/Midnight

Erie, PA. – The Gannon University Club Hockey team earned a physical and gritty victory on Saturday night against Mercyhurst University. The Golden Knights won the ‘Battle for Bayfront’ 3-2 in what was a close contest all night.

It was a penalty-filled first period as the Golden Knights had a few opportunities on the man advantage. Gannon’s Danny Conrad put one up front to give his team an early lead just minutes into the game. Less than thirty seconds later, Mercyhurst found the equalizer on their first shot of the game to tie it at one. Despite a late penalty kill, the Golden Knights remained tied with the Lakers after the first period.

Gannon started the period on another power play but could not convert. Dan Moses had a chance to give the Golden Knights the lead on a breakaway but was stopped by the Lakers’ goaltender. Midway through the second period, Mercyhurst was given a 5-on-3 advantage. Despite efficient passing and numerous shot opportunities, Gannon goaltender Collin Bisbee shut down the Lakers power play to keep it 1-1. Gannon later found the back of the net with just over three minutes to go. Joseph DePasquale scored to provide the Golden Knights’ 2-1 lead after two.

Gannon captain Chris Spriegel encouraged his team to play their game as they entered the final frame. Assistant captain Kyle Hawks noted that the team was injured and shorthanded. He told his teammates to “give it their all.”

Gannon extended its lead midway through the third period as Moses scored a shorthanded goal to make it 3-1 Golden Knights. The Lakers would answer back on the power play. Despite a solid attack by Mercyhurst, Gannon would hold on to a 3-2 victory at home!

The Golden Knights improved to 4-0-0 in conference play. The club struggled last season with a 4-7 record, yet Coach A.J. Bailey has built a winning program at Gannon. Spriegel notes that the culture has shifted since Bailey took over. “[It’s] refreshing to see the younger guys step up and play big games.” He said. Hawks revealed that the team’s chemistry has been better than it used to be. He says, “[We are] playing for each other.”

Gannon’s next opponent will be a road date with Erie Community College. The game is scheduled for Nov. 2 at 12:00 p.m. The club’s next home contest is Nov. 8 at LECOM Sports Park against West Virginia University. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. All home games are free and open to the public.