LOS ANGELES — Jordan Baker scored the go-ahead goal with 2:43 remaining in the game, the Leopards' defense held strong the rest of the way, and the University of La Verne men's water polo team took down the Occidental College Tigers in a thrilling road game Saturday afternoon,
Baker played an outstanding game for the Leopards, finishing with a game-high four assists and a team-high five goals. The senior came to life in the second half, scoring all five of his goals in the final two periods.
After the Tigers took the initial 1-0 lead, Nicolo Buno evened the game a minute and a half later. Josh Lamberton put the Leopards ahead later in the quarter, scoring on the first of our La Verne powerplay goals. Occidental never regained the lead. Lamberton finished with two goals and a steal.
Xavier Turla scored two goals, including a clutch conversion midway through the fourth quarter to put La Verne on top 14-13. Turla led La Verne with two steals.
Henry De Luna had a standout defensive performance. The goalie finished with six saves and five steals. La Verne limited the Tigers to 3-8 on powerplay attempts.
Timothy Robles netted two goals, one assist, and one steal. Tommy Gibson scored twice. Ethan Estephan scored once.
Joey Gutierrez led Occidental with five goals.
Season Impact
The Leopards improve to 10-12 overall and 3-7 in the SCIAC. The Leopards are currently in seventh place in the SCIAC, two spots out of the SCIAC Tournament. The Leopards have games remaining in against the two schools directly ahead of them, Chapman and Whittier.
Next Game
The Leopards return home and host Whittier College on Wednesday, November 11, at 6 p.m.
