Rio Mesa High took its first step to a third consecutive girls’ water polo section final Wednesday with a 13-10 win over Whittier in the first round of the Division 3 playoffs at home.
Abby McCardell scored a team-high five goals for Rio Mesa (26-5).
Courtney Walters added four. Ashley White had three assists.
Rio Mesa meets South Pasadena in the quarterfinals Friday at 3:15 p.m. at a site to be determined.