ROCHESTER, Mich. - Oakland secured their first win of the season in emphatic fashion, earning a 4-2 victory over Mercyhurst behind an offensive explosion from Brae Cole.

Oakland scored two goals in each half, outshooting the Lakers 19 to nine and doubling them up in shots on goal 12 to six. Cole shined once again in this match, scoring three goals and earning one assist, marking her as the first Golden Grizzly to achieve this feat since Kyla Kellerman in 2012.

The first half of the game between Oakland and the Lakers saw a back-and-forth battle with both teams finding the net twice. Oakland took an early lead with a goal by Mallory Anderson in the 24th minute, marking her first career goal, but the Lakers quickly equalized with a goal from Isabella Fiorillo in the 26th minute. As the rapid fire scoring continued, Brae Cole scored for Oakland just one minute after that, scoring on an assist by Ella Shapiro, regaining the lead 2-1. The Lakers responded promptly, tying the game again in the 28th minute, evening the game at half.

The second half began with a penalty kick goal by Cole in the 46th minute, retaking the lead once again for Oakland. Cole would complete her big night with another game-sealing goal in the 47th minute, assisted by Corinne Jenkins, who earned her first career assist on the score.

Carrina Wiseman-Esparza stood tall in goal for the Golden Grizzlies, notching four saves on the night. Cole led Oakland with three goals, including one game-winning goal, and registered seven shots with five on target. Anderson contributed with a goal and two of her three shots were on goal. Shapiro and Jenkins each provided an assist for the team.

Four goals is the most goals scored in a single game for Oakland since scoring six goals against Green Bay in September of 2021, showcasing the historic offensive firepower this current team may have in store.

The next challenge for Oakland is a trip to Toledo, Ohio, where they will face the Rockets on Sunday,  August 24 at 2 p.m.