Courtesy: Cal Athletics
Victory Overview
In a commanding performance, the No. 5 California women’s water polo team defeated No. 7 UC Irvine with a score of 20-10 at the Spieker Aquatics Complex. This match not only showcased the team’s prowess but also served as a celebration of its six seniors during the Senior Day festivities.
Game Highlights
The Golden Bears (17-3) demonstrated their offensive strength, recording their most decisive win in the history of their 28 encounters with the Anteaters. Leading the charge, sophomore Julia Bonaguidi contributed significantly with four goals, while sophomore Abbi Magee added three to the scoreboard. Senior Janna Tauscher also had a stellar game, netting three goals.
Seniors Shine
During a postgame ceremony honoring the seniors, Tauscher was acknowledged for her hat trick, while classmates Ruby Swadling, Elena Flynn, and Claire Rowell each scored twice. Swadling’s performance included three assists and three steals, highlighting her all-around contribution to the team’s success.
Match Progression
The match began with Cal quickly establishing dominance, scoring three consecutive goals from Swadling, senior Rozanne Voorvelt, and Rowell, taking a 3-0 lead. Although UC Irvine managed to narrow the gap to 5-4 with a trio of unanswered goals early in the second quarter, Cal responded decisively with six consecutive goals, extending their lead to 13-5 by the end of the third quarter.
Statistical Highlights
Bonaguidi matched her career-high for scoring, tying her previous record from the game against Arizona State a week earlier. The matchup concluded with the following scores:
- UC Irvine Goals: Madi O’Hara (3), Libby Alexander (2), Kennedy East (2), Maja Layden, Sara Naulty, Brooke Hourigan.
- Cal Goals: Julia Bonaguidi (4), Abbi Magee (3), Janna Tauscher (3), Claire Rowell (2), Ruby Swadling (2), Elena Flynn (2), Kate Meyer, Rozanne Voorvelt, Holly Dunn, Miriam Bogachenko.
Goalkeeping Performance
In goal, Talia Fonseca made five saves for Cal, while Elaia Hamilton added four saves. UC Irvine’s Rachel Kirchner recorded six saves, but her efforts weren’t enough to contain Cal’s offensive onslaught.
Upcoming Match
California is set to conclude its regular season with a highly anticipated matchup against No. 2 Stanford in the Big Splash event. The game is scheduled for Friday evening at 5 p.m. PT at Spieker Aquatics Complex.
