AVE MARIA, Fla.— The visiting Thomas University Nighthawks used four first half goals to pull away with a  4-0 victory over the Ave Maria Gyrenes in Sun Conference play on Thursday afternoon.

The number two nationally ranked Nighthawks received a first half hat trick from Diego Hurtado, to jump out to an early lead. From there, the Thomas defense took over, keeping the Gyrenes off the board for the full 90 minutes. This was the second consecutive shutout for the Nighthawks.

Ave Maria midfielder Eddie Tovar led the Gyrenes offensive pressure, registering two shots on goal.

Senior goalkeeper J.C. Intriago made seven saves in net for the Gyrenes. With the loss, Ave Maria drops its record to 1-3 and 0-1 in the Sun Conference.

AMU will return to action this Saturday, when they welcome Savannah College of Art Design (SCAD) -Savannah to Ave Maria. Kickoff for the contest between the Gyrenes and the Bees is set for 10 a.m. Following the home match with SCAD, the Blue and Green will hit the road for their next three contests.