Minnesota defeated Notre Dame easily Friday despite their past troubles with the Fighting Irish.

The No. 9-ranked Gophers dominated the dual meet at the University Aquatic Center, winning 12 of the 16 events for a 199-101 victory.

Entering the meet No. 22 Notre Dame had won the last two meetings but Minnesota dictated the battle early by winning both relays.

“When we got first in the relays that set the tone,” co-head coach Terry Nieszner said.

The relays came at the beginning of the match and sent a message to the Fighting Irish that this team has a lot of depth.

“In the medley relay you have one of every stroke. We had eight people beat their best four,” Nieszner said. “It sets the tone and shows the depth of the team. That kind of deflates the other team.”

Having various swimmers win two events also helps showcase the depth of a team and the Gophers had three swimmers win two events.

Junior Yuen Kobayashi won the 500 and 1000 freestyle events. Freshman Jillian Tyler continued her fast start as she won the 100 and 200 breaststroke. Junior Stacy Busack stepped up and gave Minnesota wins in the 50 and 100 freestyle events.

“We have people keep surprising us,” Nieszner said.

Another dominating weekend for the Gophers bodes well for a program on the rise and Niezner said it all starts with consistency.

The Gophers achieved their highest ranking in school history last week and the new position has Minnesota trying to stay hungry.

“We have to keep excitement going and not get stale,” Nieszner said.

Their competitive spirit will remain elevated as they face a strong No. 11 North Carolina at home next weekend.

“It will be a good tight meet. It’s probably the most evenly matched meet we’ve had this year,” Nieszner said.