LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne women's water polo team jumped out to a big halftime lead and never looked back, routing Caltech 16-9 in their SCIAC opener. 

Reiley Burton scored a game-high five goals off just six shots in the win. The senior played an outstanding all-around game, adding two assists and three steals.

Olivia Taylor had a strong outing, netting four goals. Freshman Maya De Guzman showcased all aspects of her game. She led all players with four steals and added one goal and two assists. 

After the Beavers scored the first goal, the Leopards responded with a six-goal run spurred by three goals from Burton. Taylor closed the half strong, scoring two goals in the second quarter's final 34 seconds, including a near buzzer beater with three seconds remaining.

Caltech battled in the third going goal for goal with the Leopards for most of the third. But Taylor again came through late, this time sinking a shot with two seconds left on the clock. 

Junior Brooklyn Young kept the Leopards' momentum rolling in the fourth quarter, scoring the final goal of her hat trick to extend her squad's lead. Young added two drawn exclusions in the win.

Burton ended the game strong, scoring the final two goals to end the game. 

All three of La Verne's goalies got action in the game. Freshman Katalina Martin got the bulk of the work, playing the entire second half and grabbing four saves. Senior Kelly Jackson finished with two saves in a quarter of work and standout freshman Miranda Graham got the start in the cage and recorded one save.

Dottie Barrera, Nancy Trinh, and Brianna Zapata each scored once. Zapata led La Verne with two blocks and added two steals with a drawn exclusions. 

Madison Coss set her teammates up and led the Leopards with three assists. Gigi Gomez did her part, dishing out two assists, adding two steals, and blocking one shot. 

Next Game

The Leopards host NCAA Division I Saint Francis on Thursday at 7 p.m.