The Misericordia University football team fell behind early and never recovered in a 51-20 defeat to Delaware Valley, Saturday afternoon at Mangelsdorf Field.

The Aggies scored on all three of their possessions of the first quarter to take an early 17-0 lead.

Jacob Hunter hit Billy McCleery for a touchdown midway through the second quarter to cut the margin to 17-7.

The Aggies scored on an 11-play drive to take a 24-7 lead with 5:41 to play in the first half.

After Anthony Rucci's touchdown reception with less than a minute remaining in the second period, the Aggies went 61 yards on four plays to take a 31-14 lead into halftime.

Del Val marched 75 yards on the opening possession of the second half to take a 38-14 lead.

Jordan Alston added a touchdown grab for the Cougars early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 38-20 with 13:27 to play.

The Aggies tacked on two touchdowns in the closing minutes.

Angelo Fluri led the Cougars with 113 rushing yards on 22 carries.

Gavin Morris led the defense with 10 tackles.

The Cougars will host King's in their regular season finale, Saturday.