By Steven Sinohui
Mike Robertson attempts to get the ball out of Fullerton´s hands. The Tigers lost the match 6-5.
By Steven Sinohui
The men’s water polo team lost its second home game of the year, 6-5, on Sept. 28 against the Fullerton Titans.
In the opening of the game, Fullerton struck first with a goal by Matt Morrison. His goal was followed by Fullerton’s Phil Kamper, as Fullerton took an early 2-0 lead. Riverside answered with a goal by Jeff Gouailhardou, making the first quarter score 2-1.
Riverside got off to a slow start in the first quarter, but turned up the heat in the second. Riverside responded well to the inspiring words by coach Nate Hass between quarters, pushing the team to score two big goals in the next quarter. One of the goals came from Mike Robertson, and another one coming from Zac Skelton. Riverside had the lead going into the half with the score 3-2.
In the second half, the Tigers gave up a penalty shot to Charlie Gallagher, who subsequently tied the score at 3-3.
Riverside fought back with goals by Skelton and Gouailhardou his second goal of the game. Riverside continued to play good defense, not giving up any goals.
The fourth quarter started off with a big block by goalkeeper Daniel Baurelein. Riverside struggled to keep their two goal lead, but Fullerton gave two more goals from Tommy van Andel and Morrison.
Morrison’s second goal of the game tied the score at 5-5 with only 1:09 in the fourth quarter. With only 23 seconds left in the game, Morrison answered with another goal, shattering Riverside’s hope for victory.
With Fullerton up 5-6, and only 23 seconds remaining, Riverside failed to score, leaving the final score 6-5.