SEASIDE, Calif. – Behind four goals from Autumn Day and 17 saves from Grace Mensing, the Cal State Monterey Bay women's water polo team claimed their first victory of 2024, downing UC Merced, 10-5, Sunday afternoon at the Otter Tank.

The Otters raced out to an early 3-0 advantage in the opening quarter and went into halftime with a commanding 7-2 lead. CSUMB added two more in the third to enter the final frame with a 9-3 advantage.

Day ended the Sunday matinee with five points on her four goals and an assist. Stella Martin recorded four points on two goals and two assists, while Allyson Ainsworth was in a giving mood with three assists.

The Otters out-shot the Bobcats, 31-30, and drew eight exclusions. Brenna Kenney drew a game-high three exclusions and was credited with an assist.

Mensing has now tallied 17 saves in back-to-back games and has totaled 72 on the young season.

The Otters will now hit the road until the middle of March. CSUMB returns to the pool on Saturday, Feb. 10, when they take on Long Beach State and San Diego State in a doubleheader in San Diego.