HONOLULU — The No. 6 University of Hawai'i women's water polo team jumped out to an early lead and cruised to an 18-4 Big West victory over UC Santa Barbara on Saturday at the Duke Kahanamoku Aquatic Complex.
The Rainbow Wahine improved to 12-5 and remained perfect in Big West play at 5-0, while dropping the Gauchos to 1-17 overall and 0-6 in the conference.
Gabrielle Doyle opened the scoring 19 seconds into the first period to spark a 7-0 run to give the 'Bows control on their way to the program's 25th consecutive conference victory.
Ariadna Temprano Xambó led the offensive charge for Hawai'i with a team-high four goals, tying her season high, and an assist. Roni Perlman facilitated the attack with one goal and a season-best five assists.
The 'Bows featured a highly balanced attack, with Doyle, Karly Frangieh, Lola Annear, Sienna Walker, Agatha Weston, and Emilia Schorr all netting multiple goals. Goalkeeper Daisy Logtens played the first quarter, recording two saves. Nalani Yim and Evelyn Miller split the remaining time in goal, tallying three and four saves, respectively.
The Rainbow Wahine showcased offensive efficiency throughout the contest, posting a blistering .600 shooting percentage compared to UC Santa Barbara's .138. Hawai'i also capitalized on their player advantages, converting on four of six powerplay opportunities.
Hawai'i set the tone in the first quarter in shutting out UC Santa Barbara and the defensive effort continued into the second quarter. The 'Bows held the Gauchos scoreless again while adding five more goals to take a 12-0 advantage into halftime.
UC Santa Barbara broke through in the third quarter with back-to-back goals from Cami Mras. Hawai'i answered with three of its own to extend the lead to 15-2. The final frame saw both teams score twice, with Annear netting the game's final goal.
The Rainbow Wahine will remain at home for an exhibition match against Australia on Thursday, April 2 at 6:00 p.m., at the DKAC. Following the exhibition, the 'Bows will then close the regular season with Senior Night against Cal State Fullerton on Friday, April 3 at 5:00 p.m.
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