VILLANOVA, Pa. — The Villanova water polo team defeated Santa Clara 9-3 at the Princeton Invite Sunday. 

The 'Cats saw their strongest defensive performance of the season, holding the Broncos (1-6) to just three goals on the day.

In the performance, Gracin Kerry saved eight attempts, which brought her career total to 504. Kerry, who holds the fourth most saves in Villanova (2-2) history, is the fourth goalie in 'Cats history to reach the 500-save mark. 

Riley Hull and Ella Mattocks led the offense on the day, both scoring three goals each. Mattocks leads VU on the season with eight goals. 

Hull also drew four exclusions on the day. 

Layla Canales found the net for the fifth time this season Sunday, while Sara Withers scored her first goal of the campaign. Reigning MAAC Rookie of the Week, Tessa Pettit, also found the net Sunday, scoring her sixth goal of the season on a penalty shot. 

The 'Cats controlled the game early, coming out to a 4-1 lead after the first quarter. Villanova extended its lead to 6-1 before halftime. 

A goal in the third quarter and two goals in the fourth quarter rounded out VU's second win of the season. Santa Clara scored twice in the fourth quarter after being shutout in the second and third quarters. 

Up Next

Villanova comes home to host the Wildcat Invite at the Villanova Swim Complex Feb. 6-8. The 'Cats begin play against California Baptist Friday before taking on Gannon and Iona Saturday and rounding out the weekend versus No. 13 Harvard Sunday.