VILLANOVA, Pa. — The Villanova water polo team were victorious twice Saturday, defeating Gannon and Iona at the Wildcat Invite. 

The 'Cats (3-3) are now back to .500 on the season. Their 20 goals in the first game of the day were the second most the team has scored this season. 

Villanova took control early over the Lancers (0-1), taking a 6-2 lead in the first quarter. Ella Mattocks and Tippy Maguire both scored two goals each in the quarter to lead the 'Cats offense. 

VU extended their lead to 13-3 before the break. Emmie Mallory scored twice in the second quarter. 

The 'Cats shutout Gannon in the second half, rounding out the game with seven goals. Mattocks scored five times in the contest. 

Rachel Stephens got her first start and first win of the season, saving two shots and giving up three goals in one half. Reia Kimi entered in the second half, helping shutout the Lancers and saving four attempts, the first saves of the freshman's career. 

In a matchup between teams that received votes in the CWPA poll this week, Villanova defeated the Gaels (2-6) 17-10. The win was the 'Cats 20th in program history over Iona. 

VU got off to an early lead in the game, scoring nine goals in the first half. Mattocks scored twice in the first half to lead the 'Cats offense. 

The Gaels fought back in the third quarter, outscoring Villanova 4-3 in the quarter. 

The 'Cats capped the contest with five goals in the fourth quarter, two of which were scored by Layla Canales. 

Up Next

Villanova closes the Wildcat Invite with a matchup versus No. 13 Harvard Sunday at 11 a.m.