WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Sailfish put up a fight but fell to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 11–9 on Saturday at PBA Soccer Lacrosse Field. A strong third quarter, where PBA netted five goals, wasn't enough to overtake Embry-Riddle's steady lead.

Jackson Pierce had a standout day, notching a career-high three goals on five unassisted shots. In goal, Jack Bryant was a wall, making 12 saves on 34 shots. Noah Zimmerman chipped in with a goal and two assists, steering the offense effectively. Cooper Porter also found the back of the net with one of his nine shots, marking a season-high in attempts.

The game kicked off with the 'Fish winning the initial faceoff, setting a fierce tone. Despite early efforts from Porter and Eli Baffone, their shots either missed the mark or were saved, though Bryant kept the team in the mix with several pivotal saves.

Midway through the first quarter, ERAU's Lucas Anthony scored during a man-up opportunity. PBA answered quickly with Zimmerman leveling the score, but ERAU's Anthony and Leo Mileto fired back, ending the quarter with a 3–1 lead.

In the second quarter, the Sailfish pounced on a turnover, with Patrick Law scoring at 10:56, thanks to Bryce Downs' first assist of the season. Pierce added another shortly after, closing the gap. However, Embry-Riddle took charge again with a man-up goal at 5:02, followed by a buzzer-beater from Tim Keefe, closing the half at 6–3 in their favor.

The third quarter saw PBA come out strong, winning the faceoff and quickly countering a Mileto goal with Pierce's strike at 13:04. Porter added another at 12:19, with Zion Lee leveling the game at 9:51. Pierce scored again at 7:11, giving the 'Fish a fleeting lead before Anthony tied it at 6:45. William Sloyan, assisted by Zimmerman, equalized again at 3:04 during a man-up play, sending the game into the final quarter tied 8–8.

Kicking off the fourth, the Sailfish won another faceoff, with Dallas Pulliam scooping up the ground ball. Despite early pressure and multiple shots from Braylon Baker and Porter, Embry-Riddle's defense held strong. As the quarter wore on, Embry-Riddle capitalized with goals from Christopher Harper and Anthony. Lucas Sharrer responded for PBA at 3:49, but Keefe sealed the game for Embry-Riddle.

Despite a valiant effort and relentless shots, the Sailfish couldn't close the gap, ending the match 11–9 in favor of Embry-Riddle.

Game Notes:
- Donovan O'Toole snagged a career-high 7 ground balls.

The 'Fish will be back in action on Wednesday as they travel to Lynn for SSC action.