The Lakers fell behind by eight goals in the first half and fought back to narrow the deficit to as little as two, but eventually lost to Elmira 16-12 on Wednesday afternoon in a women's lacrosse game at Laker Field in Oswego.

Oswego State fell to 5-7 on the season and Elmira improved its overall record to 4-7.

After scoring the opening goal of the contest, by Rachel Ventresca in the opening minute, Elmira scored the game's next nine goals to take a 9-1 lead. Parry Markell had four goals in that stretch and Georgia Markell scored three of the nine.

The Lakers turned momentum back in their favor over the last 10 minutes, scoring five of the next six goals, all by different players, and trailed 10-6 at halftime.

The teams traded goals three times over the majority of the second half, but a pair of quick strikes by Alisha Sarubbi brought Oswego State to within two goals at 13-11 with 8:33 left. After a timeout, Elmira scored the next three goals to seal the victory.

The Lakers converted just 2-of-12 free-position shots in the game, and Elmira goalie Jalene McCulloch made 17 saves in the contest. Laker goalie Shannon O'Brien had seven saves.

Oswego State's leading scorer was Rachel Ventresca with three goals and three assists. Michelle MenDell had two goals and four assists. Alisha Sarubbi had three goals.

Elmira was led by Perry Markell with five goals, and Georgia Markell and Mary-Kate Geratowski with four goals each. Lauren Mokes had two goals and three assists.

Oswego State returns to SUNYAC play on Saturday, hosting Brockport at 1 p.m. at Laker Field.