THOUSAND OAKS, CA – The La Verne Men's Water Polo team fell to Cal Lutheran in a back and forth battle on Friday night by a final of 19-17.

The Leos opened the game with four goals in the first quarter to match the Kingsmen's four, keeping things even early. Cal Lutheran pulled ahead in the second with another four-goal frame, while La Verne added two to trail eight to six at halftime. La Verne surged back in the third quarter, netting four goals to stay within striking distance, but the Kingsmen's six goals extended their lead. The Leos battled hard in the final period, scoring seven times in a furious comeback effort, but Cal Lutheran held on with five goals of their own to seal the win.

Josh Lamberton led the way for La Verne with a game-high six goals and one assist, continuing his standout season. Timothy Robles added a solid all-around effort with five goals and two assists, while Richard Montanez and Vaughn Freiermuth chipped in two goals apiece. This is the second game in a row with five goals for Robles. Zachariah Barclay provided steady playmaking with one goal and three assists, and Jordan Baker set up key scoring opportunities with three assists of his own. Baker also had a season high four steals on the defensive end.

The Leopards will return to Las Flores Pool on Saturday, October 25th at 11 a.m to take on the Occidental Tigers.