LOS ANGELES, Calif. --- UC Irvine women's water polo had a hot start against the second-ranked team in the nation UCLA, but could not sustain it ultimately falling, 14-8, Friday afternoon at Spieker Aquatics Center.

UCI (13-5, 2-0) was on its game early charging back after giving up the opening goal to get three from Jessica Lynch, and Tara Prentice added a penalty strike at the end of the period to give the Anteaters a 4-2 advantage at the break.

UCLA (21-1) woke up with a pair of quick scores to tie things up in the second quarter. Toni Shackelford gave UCI the lead back briefly, but the Bruins crept ahead as the half commenced taking a 6-5 lead.

The Bruins found their groove in the third quarter outscoring the 'Eaters, 6-1, including four straight to end the period punctuating it with a goal in the final second.

The 'Eaters looked to make a run with goals by Elena Flynn and Piper Smith to start the fourth quarter, but could not gain any steam falling, 14-8.

Lynch finished with three goals to lead the 'Eaters. Flynn also had a two-goal match. Faith Tedesco in net stopped five shots.

UCI is back home for its next match on Sunday, March 20, hosting San Diego State.