The Mavericks were prepared to put points on the scoreboard against Black Hills State University (BHSU). 

Freshman forward Lila Dere saw open space and took opportunities. She was two of three goals scored. Both of her goals happened within the first few minutes of each half.  

Sophomore forward Tallin Nieman scored another goal which brought the total number to three. 

Within the second minute of the game Dere received the ball and took a shot making the score 1-0. She quickly set a tone for the Mavericks as they headed into the game with the first point on the scoreboard. 

“Our goal is the first shot, first tackle, and first goal of the game. Those things will help us set a tone,” Head Coach Megan Remec said. 

At the end of half, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) lost their momentum. They quickly picked up the pace after another goal by Dere with 48:29 on the clock. 

Dere now leads the Mavericks in goals with five on the season. 

“It felt good to put the goals away fast. That’s what we need to push the team forward,” Dere said. 

Defense was strong for the Mavericks as they kept BHSU behind the half or close to it. The passes were tight and CMU maintained control even throughout defense. By 64:47 the Mavericks had BHSU stuck in the same area with no passes outwards. 

The Mavericks withheld their pace while the yellow jackets lost theirs. They lost accuracy on their passing as they began passing to CMU players. CMU was quick to notice the opportunities to steal and headed down the field. 

Dere opened the first half with a shot and Nieman closed it out with another goal. 

The first half had many of the Mavericks attempting shots all throughout. It also had CMU up the field for the majority of the game.

CMU won with a score of 3-0.

The Mavericks will next face Regis University in Denver, Colo. on April 1.