Led by an aggressive effort on defense, the University of Hawai'i women's water polo team opened its 2004 campaign with an 11-7 victory over its Alumnae, Saturday afternoon, at Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex.

Junior Makana Whitford led the Rainbow Wahine offensive attack with four goals in five attempts. Two-meter hole setter Kristy Bagnall added two goals and two assists, while senior goalie Amber Lumb stopped 11 shots, including two 4-meter penalty shots.

The Rainbow Wahine jumped out to a quick 3-0 advantage, capped off by junior Beth Novick's power play goal with 4:00 remaining in the first quarter. The Alumnae broke through one minute later as former Rainbow Wahine great Michelle Wong scored on the its first power play opportunity of the game. The Rainbow Wahine stormed back, using dominant defensive tactics and timely steals as the Alumnae went scoreless in the second period. Five consecutive alumnae turnovers turned into three goals and a 6-2 halftime advantage.

The teams traded goals to start the third quarter, which allowed the Alumnae to remain in striking distance. However, Whitford's back-to-back goals in the period's final minute gave the Rainbow Wahine a comfortable 10-4 lead. Alumnae players Eko Lapp and Wong's combined three-goal fourth quarter effort came after the match was already decided.

The Rainbow Wahine begin its regular season, Feb. 5, in Stockton, Calif. against the Tigers of Pacific. Their home opener is slated for Feb. 14 against the UC Irvine Anteaters at 6 p.m. at the DKAC.



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