The Misericordia University men's lacrosse team showed intent in its 2011 Middle Atlantic Conference opener, taking a lead into the fourth quarter before ultimately losing a tough 7-6 double overtime decision to DeSales, Saturday in Center Valley.

Junior Patrick McTague scored twice and added an assist, while classmate Lee Blair also had a pair of goals. Kyle Calabro had a goal and an assist and Matt Gonzalez scored as well.

DSU won 13-4 at Misericordia last season, but an improved Cougar squad jumped out in front early despite being on the road.

Blair gave MU the lead at 12:29 of the first quarter, and Calabro made it 2-1 less than six minutes in. DeSales tied the game at 2-2 early in the second, but two goals from McTague allowed Misericordia to enter the break with a two-goal lead.

Gonzalez made it 5-2 in the third quarter but the Bulldogs stormed back with four straight goals to take a late lead. An illegal body check penalty on DeSales gave the Cougars a power play chance however, and Blair's man-up tally with 3:31 to play sent the exciting game into overtime.

The first extra period was all Misericordia, as the visitors held a 4-1 advantage in shots and forced two saves off attempts by Gonzalez and McTague. The Bulldogs held on however, and won the game midway through the second overtime.

Junior Ryan Kay made 11 saves but took the tough loss. Defenseman Don Squire picked up a team-high seven ground balls and caused a pair of turnovers.

MU is 4-2, 0-1 and hosts Lebanon Valley on Wednesday.