In a game for first place in the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation conference, the Oregon lacrosse team fell short to top-ranked Denver 11-5 Friday at Papé Field.

This was the Ducks’ first since April 11 when they fell short to Stanford 15-7.

The Ducks got off to a rough start as the Pioneers took an early 3-0 lead due to a hat trick by Rachael McKinnon.

“I give them (Denver) credit,” head coach Jen Beck said. “They came out attacking everything and that’s what we talked about doing, but unfortunately they did it more so than we did.”

For much of the match Denver’s fast and efficient passing caused the Oregon defense to have to be quick on their feet. Ultimately, the Pioneers were able to maintain the momentum for the majority of the game.

“We came out scared and we didn’t ever loosen up,” Beck said. “When we were on fire it was really awesome but unfortunately we couldn’t keep that momentum.”

Beck also said that she didn’t think the defense played as tenaciously as past games and that the offense could of been more aggressive.

Junior Olivia Pyne scored the first goal for Oregon 13 minutes into play.

Senior Shannon Propst picked up Oregon’s second goal of the half.

Kiki Boone of Denver picked up two goals in the first half as the Pioneers had a 6-2 lead at halftime.

McKinnon scored the first goal of the second half to give Denver a five goal lead.

Pyne tallied another goal, followed by senior Nikki Puszcz scoring two goals to help the Ducks inch closer to Denver 8-5.

However, the Pioneers continued to control the draw when it counted and picked up three more goals in the second half and the win in Eugene.

Denver’s goalie Hannah Hook had a season-high of 14 saves.

“I think that there were moments that were really awesome,” Beck said. “I think overall we didn’t execute the plan. I don’t think it was anybody’s offensive or defensive side more than the other. I think everybody needed to really play better all around and unfortunately that’s just what we are left with today and thankfully wake up a new day tomorrow.”

Tomorrow’s game against Colorado marks Oregon’s last game of the season as well as senior day for the squad’s six graduating seniors.

“I think this group of seniors is going to celebrate and be in the moment,” Beck said. “But I also think this group of seniors is going to be pretty ticked about this game on Friday that’s going to be in their gut still.”

First draw against Colorado is set for noon on Sunday.