VILLANOVA, Pa. -- Villanova took down top seeded Denver 10-9 in Saturday's BIG EAST Semifinal as Luke Raymond netted the game winning goal with 36 seconds remaining. Denver attacker Michael Lampert scored with two seconds left but the goal was waved off after review determined he was in the crease.

Villanova came out firing as they netted the first four goals of the contest. Thomas McIntire found Mason Reale for the opening goal then a solo goal from Colin Michener doubled the lead. Madness ensued on the ensuing faceoff as Jack Shoemaker caused a turnover then found Lucas Kopecky for the third goal of the night. McIntire scored his first goal of the game before the Pioneers got on the board.

In the second quarter, Matt Licata scored two goals before Denver got one back to make the halftime score 6-2. The Pioneers began the second half similar to Villanova's first half as they scored five straight goals to take a 7-6 lead in the third quarter.

There were three ties and three lead changes in the final quarter as both sides battled for control. Sam Parkinson scored his first goal of the season to level the score then McIntire scored his second goal of the game to give Villanova the lead. Jack Tortolani tied the score at eight then Reale found Tyler Boes with 4:39 remaining to put the 'Cats ahead again. Denver once again tied the game three minutes later before Raymond's winner all but sealed it.

Denver claimed the ensuing faceoff then Stevie Jones caused a massive turnover with 21 seconds left to give Villanova possession. A turnover with 11 seconds left gave the Pioneers one last chance which Lampert converted. The goal was then waved off by the officials and confirmed after a lengthy review. The Wildcats ran out the final two seconds and stormed the field in celebration.

Licata and McIntire each had three points to lead the 'Cats. The defense was impressive, causing 15 of Denver's 22 turnovers. Stephen Zupicich led the way with four CTs as Tripp Robinson added three. Anthony Wilson made 12 saves in the win.

JJ Sillstrop led the Pioneers with three points and goalie Malcom Kleban made seven saves in the loss. BIG EAST Specialist of the Year Alec Stathakis went 15-21 in the faceoff department.

With the win Villanova will face two seeded Georgetown for the BIG EAST championship on Saturday night. The 'Cats are seeking their first ever BIG EAST championship.