University of La Verne

ORANGE, CA — Timothy Robles matched a career-high five goals, Josh Lamberton added four, and the Leopards rallied after a slow start at Chapman. But it wasn't enough to close the deficit as the University of La Verne men's water polo team fell in their SCIAC opener, 18-15.

Robles was efficient, scoring five goals off just eight shots with one assist and a drawn exclusion. Lamberton needed just six shots to net his four goals and led the Leopards with three exclusions with two assists.

After falling behind 5-1 at the end of the first quarter, the Leopards rallied in the second, outscoring the Panthers 4-2 to cut the deficit to 7-5 at the half. Both teams rallied out of the break, combining for 11 goals in the third quarter as Chapman extended their lead to 13-10. 

The Leopards added five goals in the fourth, led by three from Lamberton, but couldn't close the gap. 

Jordan Baker led La Verne with three assists and added two goals. Christian Acosta scored twice. Nicolo Buono and Johan Gaytan both scored once.

La Verne moves to 3-3 overall and 0-1 in the SCIAC. 

The Leopards return to action on Wednesday, September 30, at 7 p.m. with a big matchup at Whittier.