By CAROL GULLSTAD

Special to the Reporter

The Mercer Island Islanders boys water polo team was victorious in a matchup between top flight programs.

North Division leader Mercer Island defeated West Division leader Bainbridge Island 13-11 on Oct. 4 in a highly anticipated non-league matchup. Sam Nair and Sammy Vacca each scored four goals apiece to lead the Islanders offense. Daniel Kavesh and Max Vacca chipped in two goals apiece as well. Leif Gullstad added one goal in the win. Mercer Island goalie Will Cero compiled 13 saves against the Spartans. Mercer Island started off the game strong, building a 3-0 lead in the opening minutes of the game. The Islanders led the Spartans 5-2 at the end of the first quarter and 6-3 at halftime. Mercer Island extended their lead to 11-7 at the end of three quarters of play. The Islanders, who led at one juncture by five goals in the fourth quarter, saw the Spartans score three goals in the final 1:30 of regulation but survived the comeback bid for a two-goal triumph.