The UCLA women’s water polo team defeated San Jose State 19-5 in a Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF) game at Spieker Aquatics Center, according to a March 14 announcement from the university. The win marked the Bruins’ second game in a stretch of three games over four days at home.
The result is significant as it keeps UCLA, ranked second nationally, on track in conference play with a record of 14-2 overall and 3-1 in the MPSF. The team’s strong performance on both offense and defense highlights its position as a contender this season.
Emma Lineback, Bia Mantellato, and Anna Pearson each scored three goals for UCLA. The Bruins converted ten out of thirteen power-play opportunities. Dania Innis, Genoa Rossi, Taylor Smith, and Elektra Urbatsch each added two goals. Goalkeeper Joey Niz allowed two goals and made ten saves during her three quarters in goal. For San Jose State, Darcy Spark led with three goals while Tatiana Raffin and Larke Eslinger combined for six saves.
Lineback opened scoring early in the first quarter and continued her strong form after also recording a hat trick against Princeton earlier in the week. By halftime, UCLA led 11-1 after holding San Jose State scoreless in the second quarter. Izzy Rosensitto made her season debut as goalkeeper for UCLA during the fourth quarter.
UCLA will conclude its busy week by hosting No. 12 Fresno State on Sunday at Spieker Aquatics Center. This will be the third meeting between these teams this season.
