Last week, Mercer Island’s league record improved to 7-1 after back-to-back victories over Shorewood, 19-12 and Inglemoor, 21-3. Ten different Islanders scored in each game. After the Reporter deadline, the Islanders took on Bellevue with first place in the league at stake. The loser will share second place with Roosevelt heading into the final week of the season.

The Islanders previously edged Bellevue at home 13-11 September 30. The Islanders’ lone loss for the season was at the hands of Roosevelt on October 9, 16-10, The Islanders bested the Roughriders in double overtime at home earlier in the season. Roosevelt has two losses, one to the Islanders and one to the Wolverines. However, Roosevelt will have another crack at Bellevue on October 29. If the Roughriders emerge victorious from that meeting, KingCo standings could be decided on goal differential.

Reflecting on the game ahead Coach Andrew Smith-Jones said, “We need to play Mercer Island water polo and be confident in our abilities. We need to play smart offensively and defensively. Defensively we need to make the less experienced players beat us. If we can do those things we have a chance at winning. If we win, that is awesome. It would be great to be the regular season champions from KingCo, but in reality our goals are to win districts and state. A win here helps us continue along the right path, but a loss does not prevent us from accomplishing out goals for the season.”

During the Inglemoor victory senior Bryan Glant posted three goals, one assist and lead the defense with four steals. In the Shorewood game, senior Parker Bannister registered two goals, two assists and one steal.