DENVER - Led by a first-half hat trick by Julia Gilbert, the Denver women's lacrosse team defeated the Colorado Buffaloes, 14-8, under the lights at Petey B on Wednesday night.

Gilbert started the scoring early for the Pioneers with two goals in the first two minutes of play, but the Buffs battled back with a 4-0 run and took a one goal lead at the end of the first quarter. Caroline Colimore responded off of a free position shot to tie it up, 4-4, and Gilbert earned the go-ahead goal and the lead that Denver maintained for the remainder game. 

Alongside Gilbert's four goals and two helpers, Jane Earley notched a hat trick and Colimore and Ryan Dineen each scored a pair of goals.

The Pioneer defense held the Buffs scoreless for nearly 30 minutes, led by Bryn McCaughey and Payton Vaughn with two caused turnovers each, while Olivia Penoyer picked up a trio of ground balls. Emelia Bohi made nine saves for Denver.

The Buffs were led offensively by Lily Assini and Maddie Shoup who each scored two goals. Goalkeeper Danielle Heintz made five saves.

Denver moves to 8-3 on the season.

UP NEXT: The Pioneers resume Big East conference play against Marquette on Saturday afternoon at Peter Barton Lacrosse Stadium.