The University of Utah lacrosse team traveled to Denver this past Saturday to take on the No. 17 ranked University of Denver in the Utes’ season opener. Despite a well-played first half, the Utes couldn’t contain the experience and firepower of the talented Denver team. Utah kept it close throughout the first half, going into the locker room down only 3-5. The second half was a different story, as the team was outscored 7-1 and would eventually fall 12-4.

First Half

The Utes struggled to capitalize on some great looks early in the game and would eventually fall behind 3-0. The team would score their first goal of the season on a 10-yard shot by redshirt freshman Ryan Stines. The goal was assisted by junior Tyler Bradbury and helped cut into the three-goal Denver lead.

Jordan Hyde scored from 15 yards out as the second quarter began, thanks to another assist from Bradbury. Later in the second quarter, Hyde capitalized on another great assist, this time from Cody Hart. With four minutes to go in the second quarter, the Utes were down by only one goal. Before the quarter ended, Denver was able to extend their lead with another goal and would be up by two scores heading into halftime.

Second Half

Being down just two goals against a talented Denver team was a very positive sign for the Utes as they headed out of the halftime locker room. Early on in the third quarter, Hyde scored his third goal of the game while Bradbury grabbed his third assist of the afternoon.

At this point in the game, the score stood at 6-4, with a lot to be happy about for head coach Andrew McMinn and his staff. To end the quarter, Denver scored three straight goals and took a 9-4 lead into the fourth quarter.

Denver eventually scored three fourth-quarter goals while holding Utah to none. When the final buzzer sounded, the Utes were down 12-4, allowing six unanswered scores from the high-powered Denver offense.

Up Next for the Utes

The final score did not accurately reflect the Utes’ performance in the first three and a half quarters. There were a lot of positives that came from playing a good Denver team. The Utes moved the ball well and got great looks for the majority of the game. Being able to finish those opportunities will be something the Utes look to improve on as they take on Marquette this weekend. The Golden Eagles will come into Salt Lake for the Utes’ home opener on Saturday, Feb. 11 at noon MST.

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