WOMEN'S WATER POLO: After a slow start, the Pirates' women's water polo team used a six goal explosion in the second quarter to take charge of the visiting Cuesta Cougars in their 12-5 victory to open Western State Conference play Wednesday at the Ventura Aquatic Center. Brittany McWaid had three goals, three assists and two steals for the Pirates (5-4, 1-0) while Christina Tellez also found the back of the net three times in the win.
Ventura held a slim 2-1 advantage after the first period, but rebounded with more inspired play to take a 7-3 lead into halftime. VC stretched the lead to 9-3 with two minutes left in the third period, and posted a final margin of 12-5.
Molly Watkins recorded eight saves in goal for Ventura and Lauren McCaslin had a pair of goals offensively and five steals on the defensive end of the pool. Ashley runyon also scored two goals with two assists and Sarah Shah and Cecily Loya each scored one goal.
VC will host an alumni team on Saturday Sept. 28 at 10:00 am before returning to WSC action against LA Pierce on Wednesday Oct. 2 at 2:15pm. Both matches will be held at the Ventura Aquatic Center.