Utica Edges Behrend

Utica Edges Behrend

ERIE, Pa.  – Utica scored four goals in the second half to make the difference in a 7-2 victory over Penn State Behrend women's water polo team on Sunday in the Junker Center Pool.

Hilary MacManus and MaryEllen Spooner each scored a goal for the Lions (1-9).

Behrend took a 1-0 lead with 2:14 gone in the first quarter and Spooner had four straight chances to make it a possible 5-0, but her first shot hit the post and the next three were saved by the Pioneers goalie.

Utica did not get its first shot off until 27 seconds left in the quarter. The Pioneers opened the second quarter with a goal from Kristyn Galbraith. Spooner had her penalty shot saved and Jacqueline Braca put Utica up for good with a lofty shot over Elizabeth Causgrove.

Lisa Torii netted back-to-back goals to start the third quarter to make it 5-1. Spooner scored off an assist from Kendell Duffy with 1:16 left in the third.

The Lions returns to action on Saturday against Gannon at 9 a.m.