College Park, MD - The Iona College women's water polo team wrapped up its first weekend of competition in 2008 and faced Bucknell at the Terrapin Invitational. The Gaels (0-3) kept it close, but were outscored 4-1 in third quarter and fell 10-4. Junior Lauren Peterson had two goals, sophomore Megan Keller and rookie Maggie Wood added the other goals.

The Gaels kept it close as the score was tied at 2 after the first half and the Maroon and Gold trailed by just two at halftime, 4-2. The Bison (10-2) went on a scoring spurt and outscored Iona 4-1 in the third quarter to push the game firmly in their favor. The Gaels were able to add another goal in the final quarter, but Bucknell was too far ahead and put up another two goals in the 10-4 win. "We didn't have too many chances," said Head Coach Brian Kelly. "We had several mental breakdowns defensively that gave them opportunities. Most of this wouldn't happen three weeks from now, even a week from now."

Peterson added two goals to her weekend total of seven goals. "She was the player of the weekend," said Kelly. Junior Amanda Cody drew two kickouts and forced two steals. Rookie goalie Kathleen Link had 11 saves and blocked a 5-M penalty shot. "We had an optimistic tournament. I knew it was going to be tough weekend, but for a half in each game, we were very, very good."

Kelly added that his team wasn't at the same stage in season form as the other teams. "We're not in playing shape yet, but we're looking forward to getting there and getting there soon. Mental breakdowns are easily corrected and if it were physical breakdowns, I would be concerned."

The Gaels return to the water at the Utica Invitational on March 1 where they will face Utica and Gannon.