EVANSVILLE, Ind.—The University of Southern Indiana men's soccer team fell to Mercyhurst College, 1-0, Friday evening at Strassweg Field despite a strong offensive performance.

USI (1-5-0) had the edge over the Lakers in shots (19-9) and in shots on goal (8-2), but could not overcome the early deficit.

Mercyhurst (6-1-0) scored in the 18th minute of the contest when Kurt Young used a feed from Jason Pedra for his sixth goal of the season.

Junior forward Michael Dugger (Hanson, Kentucky) led USI with four shots, one on goal, while senior midfielder/forward Brett Palazzolo (St. Louis, Missouri) had three shots, two of which were on goal.

Mercyhurst goalkeeper Daniel Mudd had the shutout as he collected eight saves, while sophomore keeper Jake Bryan (Portage, Indiana) took the loss for the Eagles.

USI returns to action Sunday with a non-conference contest against Gannon University. Kick-off is slated for noon at Strassweg Field.