FRESNO, Calif. – The University of California, Merced women's water polo team suffered a 27-3 setback to Fresno Pacific University on Thursday night at Sunnyside Aquatics Center.
Viviana Luna highlighted the Bobcats (6-10) efforts with a pair of second half goals. Luna's two scores upped her season total to 30 goals on the year and extended her goal scoring streak to eleven matches. Her first goal came two minutes into the second half to put a halt on the Sunbirds 18-0 explosion. Both of Luna's goals came at even strength.
Hope Stokes also scored for the Bobcats in her return to action after missing the previous two games. The Merced, Calif., native's goal came midway through the third quarter.
Carlin Rodelo was credited with two saves in the cage.
Fresno Pacific's Kristina Dupont led all players with five goals. Randi Johnson and Tatum Benson tallied a hat-trick. All three Sunbirds were also credited with at least one assist.
FPU goalkeeper Katie Whittingham finished with six saves.
Looking ahead, UC Merced plays host to OUAZ to kick of the inaugural NAIA Water Polo Finals on Friday, March 31. Opening sprint is scheduled for 10:00am at UC Merced's Aquatics Center.
