LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne women's water polo team dropped a tight battle against NCAA Division I Saint Francis University on Thursday night by a final of 18-15. Despite the cold rain, both teams put together strong offensive pushes as the Red Flash were able to hang on against a relentless Leopards attack.

Brianna Zapata showcased her elite scoring ability by burying six goals on eight shots. Reiley Burton also made her mark by contributing three goals and an assist, showing impressive composure when finishing her opportunities. Olivia Taylor also stood out, scoring two goals on four shots, making the most of her opportunities. Maddie Grove put away two goals on three attempts, effectively finding space in front of the net.

The scoring started early with Saint Francis netting two goals in the first three minutes. However, the Leos responded with two goals courtesy of Taylor and Burton.

The two teams traded goals in the second quarter, with the Red Flash holding a slight 9-6 advantage at halftime.

The Red Flash came out of the break with some momentum, scoring three unanswered goals in the first four minutes. Burton stopped the run with a goal of her own, but at the end of three quarters, the Red Flash extended their lead to 14-9.

The fourth quarter saw a comeback attempt from the pesky Leopards. A well-rounded attack saw Grove, Maya De Guzman, and Burton each score a goal to open up the period. Despite outsourcing the Red Flash 6-4 in the fourth quarter, the Leos' comeback attempt came up just short.

Next Game

Next, the Leopards will travel to Claremont this Wednesday to take on the Pomona-Pitzer Sagehens in a conference matchup that begins at 7 p.m.