DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – Roberts Wesleyan College men's lacrosse coach Rocky Delfino didn't hesitate when asked if the 2021 season was the most successful in the program's history.

"Oh, yeah," he said following Saturday's narrow 7-5 defeat to top-seeded and host Mercy in the East Coast Conference championship game.

The second-seeded Redhawks (7-5) accomplished several firsts this spring, including earning their first postseason berth, recording their first playoff victory and reaching their first conference championship game.

"I'm proud of the kids," Delfino said. "I'm just sorry for the six seniors that we weren't able to get them that championship today."

Senior Hunter Lemieux scored off an assist by classmate Gavin Marsh to give Roberts a 5-4 lead with 8:57 remaining in the third quarter, but the host Mavericks (9-1) held the Redhawks scoreless the rest of the way.

"They are one of those teams that you never feel comfortable with because they have so much striking power," Delfino said.

Lemieux led Roberts (7-5) with three goals to finish the season with 44 and senior Pat Hynes stood out in goal with 19 saves.

"Both goalies played well, but Pat just played great," Delfino said. "The whole defense did."

Sophomores Reid Jackowski and Dan Doviak also scored for the Redhawks. Senior Matt Gademske was credited with an assist.

Delfino said he was expecting a low-scoring game.

"I thought both teams would score less than 10 goals," he said. "Both defenses played well."

Lemieux opened the scoring 2:01 into the game, which was tied 1-1 after the first quarter. Mercy took a 3-1 lead before Roberts responded with goals by Lemiuex and Jackowski to make it 3-3 at the half.

Doviak and Lemiuex scored 83 seconds apart in the third quarter to put the Redhawks in front, but Mercy responded with a 3-0 run to close the game.

Brady Kearnan led Mercy with three goals and two assists. The Mavericks also dominated the "X," winning 13 of 14 faceoffs.