ORANGE, CA — The University of La Verne women's water polo team led 3-1 after the opening quarter but couldn't recover from a big second half surge by the Chapman Panthers, falling 14-8.

How It Happened

Brooklyn Young scored the opening goal, and Reiley Burton netted two shots to put the Leopards up 3-0 early. The Panthers responded with an 8-2 second quarter to take a 9-5 lead at the break. Chapman held La Verne to three goals in the second half. 

Notables

Burton and Nancy Trinh each scored twice. Trinh led the Leopards with two drawn exclusions. Maya De Guzman finished with three steals, two assists, and one goal.

Gigi Gomez dished out three assists, scored once, and drew one exclusion. Young added two assists. Olivia Taylor added one goal and one steal. Brianna Zapata tallied two steals and one assist. 

Miranda Graham grabbed 11 saves. 

Season Impact

Despite the loss, the Leopards (4-14 overall) remain in contention to make the SCIAC Postseason Tournament with five games remaining. La Verne is in fifth place with a 3-3 SCIAC record.

Next Game

The Leopards have a big showdown with Occidental College at home on Wednesday, April 2, at 4 p.m. The Tigers are currently in sixth place with a 3-4 SCIAC record.