April 25, 2008

Stats

Ann Arbor, Mich. - The Mercyhurst women's water polo team made its first-ever appearance at the Eastern Championship Friday afternoon, but was turned away by the host team and top-seeded Michigan, 14-2.

It is the third time this season that 11th-ranked Michigan (31-9) bested the Lakers (14-7), and with the loss, Mercyhurst moves into the consolation bracket to play at 3:30 p.m., Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor, Mich.

While the Lakers rank 13th in the nation in scoring average, they have managed just 12 goals in their three games against the Wolverines. Friday, Michigan's stifling defense held Rachel Griepsma, who leads the nation in goals per game, to just one goal. That one goal, however, gave her 79 on the season, which ties the second-best single season total in school history.

The Wolverines built a 4-1 lead after the first quarter, but blanked the Lakers in the second to take an 8-1 lead into the half.

Mercyhurst managed to chip into the lead with a goal in the third, but Michigan finished strong with a 4-0 fourth quarter to seal the win.

Christine Somera scored Mercyhurst's only other goal and also added an assist. Starting goalie Gina Mieras added three saves and an assist.

Fans can watch Mercyhurst's Saturday afternoon game live on the Internet and follow live scoring updates at the official site of the Eastern Championship.