THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – Cal Lutheran women's water polo struggled to find its rhythm on Saturday morning, falling 12-4 to Claremont-Mudd-Scripps at the Samuelson Aquatics Center.

The Regals (9-11, 5-2 SCIAC) ran into a sharp CMS squad that controlled the tempo from the opening sprint, using a balanced offensive attack and strong defensive pressure to keep Cal Lu chasing throughout.

The Athenas struck twice in the opening quarter while holding the Regals scoreless, setting the tone early. CLU broke through in the second period with a goal from Jacqueline Brandon, but CMS answered with three scores of its own to take a 5-1 lead into halftime.

The Athenas continued to build separation in the third, capitalizing on key opportunities to extend their advantage. Clarisa Robles found the back of the cage for the Regals, but CMS maintained control and carried a 8-2 lead into the final frame.

Cal Lu showed some late fight in the fourth quarter, as Kelsee Espitia and Franki Court each added goals, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome in the 12-4 decision.

Robles led the Regals with a goal and an assist, while Brandon, Espitia, and Court each added a score. Defensively, Izzy de Souza recorded seven saves in the cage and added three steals.

Despite matching CMS in sprint opportunities, CLU was limited offensively, managing 21 shots on the day against an active Athenas defense that totaled 14 steals.

The Regals will look to bounce back on Wednesday, March 25, when they return home to host Caltech at 4 p.m.