University of La Verne

THOUSAND OAKS, CA — The University of La Verne men's water polo team played even with the Cal Lutheran Kingsmen in the final three quarters but couldn't overcome a slow start, falling 18-14 on the road.

Jordan Baker led the Leopards with three goals, two assists, and three steals. Christian Acosta scored three times with one assist and one steal. Nicolo Buono added two goals and a steal.

After falling behind 6-2 in the first quarter, the Leopards responded with five goals in the second period led by two apiece from Baker and Acosta. But La Verne couldn't slow the Kingsmen's attack, allowing five goals and heading into the break down 11-7.

The Leopards went on a late run in the fourth quarter, scoring three goals within a minute, capped by scores from Zack Montoya and Xavier Turla, but it was too little, too late.

Timothy Robles finished with a team-high three assists and added one goal, one steal, and two blocks. Zachariah Barclay contributed one goal, two assists, and one steal.

The Leopards move to 6-9 overall and 1-5 in the SCIAC.

La Verne takes a break from SCIAC play and hits the road next week. The Leopards will travel to Cuesta College for three games beginning with UC Merced on Monday, October 26, at 11:20 am.