Defenseman Tony Borgford keyed a third-period comeback, setting up Mercyhurst's first goal and scoring the game-winner as the Lakers defeated Hamilton, 3-1, in a men's hockey game in the first round of the Pepsi-Cardinal Hockey Classic at Plattsburgh.

The Continentals (3-4-1), playing for the first time in 21 days, led 1-0 entering the third period thanks to a first-period power-play goal by Rob Rigg, his team-leading fourth goal. Chris Baudo and Darren Johnston had the assists. Goaltender Scott Grenier (31 saves) was then stellar until the third period, when Borgford led Mercyhurst's comeback.

Scott Ludeviks added an empty net goal with 34 seconds remaining for Mercyhurst (11-3). Goaltender Avi Karunaker had 23 saves.

Hamilton, which last played Dec. 13 in a 4-3 win over Elmira, will play in the consolation game of the Cardinal Classic tomorrow afternoon at 4 p.m. The Continentals will face the loser of tonight's game between Trinity and host Plattsburgh.