Colorado College responded with a strong bounce-back performance, defeating Aurora 17-11 on Saturday afternoon at Spartan Athletic Park.

The Tigers (1-1) scored seven of the game's first nine goals and never trailed after the opening minutes, building an early cushion that held up despite a second-half push from Aurora.

After Aurora scored the game's first goal, junior Gavin Pope ignited the Tigers' offense with four first-half goals as part of a seven-goal opening period. CC led 7-2 after the first quarter and extended the margin to 12-5 by halftime.

Pope finished with a career-high four goals and one assist to lead the Tigers. Junior Aidan Niklaus also delivered a standout performance with a career-high four goals and two assists, while junior Matt Hudson added three goals and one assist.

Aurora narrowed the gap in the third and fourth quarters, scoring five unanswered goals early in the final period to cut the deficit to 14-11 with 12:27 remaining.

CC responded by regaining control down the stretch. Senior Logan Chapman scored to halt the run before Pope and sophomore Nick Johnson added late goals to seal the victory.

Colorado College held advantages in shots (47-37), ground balls (40-34), and clears, converting 17 of 18 attempts compared to Aurora's 13-for-28 performance.

Senior Robert Spence recorded 12 saves in goal to anchor the defensive effort.

Aurora was led by Dylan Kranzush with three goals.

Colorado College returns to action next week.