ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Bucknell University secured a 7-6 Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) Division I victory over Saint Francis University and then dominated the nightcap with a commanding 19-5 win versus the University of California-Merced on the first day of the 2024 Michigan Invitational at the University of Michigan’s Canham Natatorium.
In the morning’s opening match, the Bison witnessed goals scored by six different players to overcome Saint Francis. 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 recorded 12 saves to earn the win.
The Bison achieved their largest margin of victory this season with a commanding 19-5 triumph over the UC-Merced 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.
The Bison surged 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. Additionally, sophomore Izzy Lippolis recorded two points to go along with single points from Challa and Motau.
Information courtesy Bucknell University Athletics Communications
