ERIE, Pennsylvania - With the bitter taste of their heartbreaking loss in Buckhannon on Monday still in their mouths, the Salem women's basketball team was looking to get back into the win column as they hit the road for a mid-week matchup with the Mercyhurst Lakers. Salem came out with an offensive spark in the first half, but they would end up being bested by a sweeping L-aker comeback bid in the second half. The final scoreline was 76-61 favoring Mercyhurst. 

In the first quarter, Salem took initial control of the game thanks to a well rounded offensive attack that included 4 different Tigers scoring in the period. However, Mercyhurst was not going to give up their home court advantage that easily, and battled back towards the end of the period to make it 19-18 in favor of Salem. 

In the second, the Salem offensive game was kicked into high gear thanks to Aina Maynou and Nerea Arambarri Fernandez making some key buckets for the Tigers. By the halftime whistle, Salem looked to be in control of the game, and held a 36-28 lead over the Lakers. 

After the halftime intermission, the battle was on for the Tigers as the Lakers came out of the locker room with newfound energy. Mercyhurst slowly ate away at the Salem lead, but Anna Machykova played well in the period and kept the game close with some strong interior play. Despite the Tiger's best efforts, Mercyhurst wrestled control of the game away from them, and the Lakers held a 54-48 lead going into the final period. 

As Salem tried to claw their way back into the game, a familiar problem arose for the Tigers as foul trouble put the Lakers on the line in key situations throughout the second half. Salem's comeback bid in the 4th would not be enough to overcome their foes, and the final scoreline read Mercyhurst Lakers 76, Salem 61. 

However, there are still some bright areas for the Tigers. Salem was led by their leading scorer on the season Nerea Arambarri Fernandez with 25 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Emerson Wells also had a strong night with 11 points, 7 rebounds, and a steal. 

After back to back road losses, Salem will be happy to get back to T. Edward Davis Gymnasium where they are 2-0 this season. They are set to take on the Elizabeth City State Vikings at home on December 12th at 5:30 PM.