Box Score LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne women's water polo team battled against first-place Pomona-Pitzer, but couldn't recover from an early deficit, falling 18-6.

Dottie Barrera led the Leopards with a season-high three goals and drew two exclusions.

Kaitalin Smith totaled one goal, one steal, and one drawn exclusion. Madison Coss dished two assists. Reyn Jensen and Maya De Guzman scored once.

Miranda Graham finished with 12 saves.

The Leopards next have a crucial road showdown at Whittier College. The Poets (3-4 SCIAC) and Leopards (2-5 SCIAC) are in a battle for the final spot in the SCIAC Tournament. The squads face off on Wednesday, March 25, at 7 p.m.