Women's Water Polo Sweeps Day One of Michigan Invitational

Saturday, March 23

Ann Arbor, MI

9:00 AM

Bucknell University

Saint Francis

Women's Water Polo Sweeps Day One of Michigan Invitational

3/23/2024 5:22:00 PM | Women's Water Polo

ANN ARBOR, MI - Bucknell had an exceptional opening day at the Michigan Invitational, sweeping both matches. The Bison secured a narrow 7-6 victory over the Red Flash, then dominated the nightcap with a commanding 19-5 win against UC Merced.

Game One: Bucknell 7 St. Francis 6

In the morning's opening match, the Bison witnessed goals scored by six different players. Senior utility Isabelle Monaghan netted two goals, while junior utility Boati Motau, sophomore center Bella Schraa, center guards Anna Plante, Gwen Kallmeyer, Malli Challa, and freshman attacker Caitlin Stott each contributed with a goal for the team.

Bucknell women's water polo began the game with a sluggish start, allowing St. Francis to go on a 3-1 run in the first quarter. However, this lead was short-lived, as the Bison tightened their defense, preventing the Red Flash from scoring until the fourth quarter. Bucknell then embarked on a dominant 7-0 run starting in the second quarter against St. Francis.

Freshman goalkeeper Tamara Torkos showcased an outstanding performance in the net for the Bison, recording 12 saves.

Game Two: Bucknell 19 UC Merced 5

The Bison achieved their largest margin of victory this season with a commanding 19-5 triumph over the Bobcats. Bucknell asserted dominance right from the start, racing to an 8-0 lead in the first quarter while limiting UC Merced to just two goals in the first half.

Bucknell exhibited strong determination against UC Merced in the nightcap, surging to a commanding 12-2 lead in the first half. The freshman class made a notable impact, contributing 13 of the 19 goals scored by the Bison. Campbell Collins, Regan Coon, and Stott each tallied four points, while Lehua added one, all playing pivotal roles in the victory. Additionally, sophomore Izzy Lippolis recorded two points, and sophomore Malli Challa and senior Motau also contributed a point each.

Once again, Torkos proved her dominance in the net, boasting a 71% save percentage, her highest of the day.

The Bison are back in action tomorrow for the final day of the Michigan Invitational