VILLANOVA, PA - The Iona College women's water polo team opened Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play with a pair of wins at Villanova University. In the first game of the day, the Gaels defeated Siena 12-6 before defeating St. Francis 17-11 in the second contest.

Against Siena, the Gaels were led by junior Maggie Wood's three goals and assist. Wood also drew two kickouts and had a steal on the defensive end. Sophomore Cecilia Leonard also had three goals and recorded four steals. Senior Meghan Keller was the third Iona player to reach the three goal plateau. Sophomore Mackenzie Mone had two assists and drew a kickout. Junior Kathleen Link had 11 saves in net.

Against St. Francis, Wood was once again the Iona top scorer, registering six goals and an assist, while drawing three kickouts. Leonard had four goals and two assists. Mone had five points on four goals and an assist while Keller had two assists. Freshman Alyssa Turza had two goals and junior Sam Cody had a field block on the defensive end. Link had 12 saves in the contest.

The Gaels return to the water next weekend when they face Siena and Wagner in MAAC play in Loudonville, NY.