IRVINE, Calif. 26 No. 6 UC Irvine men’s water polo opened Senior Day with a strong performance, defeating Air Force 18-10 on October 25, 2026, at the Anteater Aquatics Complex.
The Anteaters quickly established control by outscoring Air Force 5-2 in the first quarter and continued to extend their lead each period. UC Irvine dominated the third quarter with a five-goal shutout, leading 15-6 before the final period. Although Air Force outscored UC Irvine 4-3 in the fourth quarter, the Anteaters maintained a comfortable margin for the victory.
Leading the offense, Alex Lopez recorded seven points with four goals and three assists. Gage Verdegaal added six points via three goals and three assists, while Johann Thrall tallied four points with three goals and one assist. Additional scoring contributions came from Cole Francisco, Ethan Spoon, Wyley Dale, Keegan McGann, Ben Youngblood, and Jayson Hubbard.
The UC Irvine goalkeepers Nico Assalian, Vincent Vega, and Nolan Cary combined for eight saves, providing critical defensive support. Air Force’s top scorer was Tom Leggett, who netted three goals in the contest.
UC Irvine will next host No. 12 UC Santa Barbara on October 30 at 6 p.m. at the Anteater Aquatics Complex for a Big West Conference matchup.
CSB Take
The decisive 18-10 victory over Air Force on Senior Day highlights UC Irvine men’s water polo as a formidable contender nationally and within the Big West. The team’s balanced offensive attack led by Alex Lopez, combined with strong defensive efforts from its trio of goalkeepers, builds momentum as the Anteaters prepare for a critical upcoming matchup against a top-ranked conference rival. Maintaining this level of play will be essential for UC Irvine’s postseason aspirations and standing in the conference.
Source: Original report
