LA VERNE, Calif. — Jasmine Bustamante and Jassmine Kezman both scored three goals apiece but the Virginia Military Institue got off to an early lead and held on to beat the University of La Verne women's water polo team 16-10 at Las Flores Park.

Kezman added two steals, three drawn exclusions, and an assist. Victoria Mezack dished out three assists, drew three exclusions, and scored once.

After Emily Mena gave the Leopards the early 1-0 lead, VMI went on a 7-0 run to take the lead for good.

La Verne rallied though, getting to within two goals of the Keydets' lead after Kate Bradley connected with Bustamante with 5:56 left in the third to put the score at 8-6. But the Keydets finished with five goals in the period to pull away.

Bradley added a goal of her own in the final minute of the opening half. 

Jordan Ehara scored once. Yuri Ujifusa and Susana Curiel each finished with one assist.

Samantha Murillo got the start in the cage grabbing five saves.

Season Impact: The Leopards move to 7-10 overall and the Keydets improve to 15-8.

Next Game: La Verne returns to SCIAC action tomorrow when they host the Chapman Panthers at 11 a.m.