THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – Cal Lutheran women's water polo closed out the regular season in dominant fashion on Saturday morning, overpowering La Verne 25-10 at the Samuelson Aquatics Center in a celebratory Senior Day victory.
Prior to the match, the Regals honored seniors
Natalie Favazzo,
Clarisa Robles,
Chloe Gardhouse,
Miranda Miller,
Reyna Clark,
Jacqueline Brandon,
Lauren Lohmeier, and
Izzy de Souza for their dedication and impact on the program. The group delivered in a big way, combining for 15 of Cal Lu's 25 goals, with every senior finding the back of the net in a fitting finale at home.
The Regals (14-11, 10-2 SCIAC) wasted no time taking control, erupting for seven goals in the opening quarter. They continued to build their lead with a 5-2 second period and never let up, scoring at least five goals in every frame to maintain full command throughout.
Brandon led the offensive effort with four goals and an assist, including three fourth-quarter finishes to help cap the win. Lohmeier added four goals of her own, continuing her strong scoring form, while
Kelsee Espitia contributed three goals and two assists in a well-rounded performance.
Aleaha Gonzalez also tallied three goals, while Gardhouse filled the stat sheet with two goals and three assists. Robles added two goals, both coming on penalty opportunities, and
Waileia Lee chipped in a pair as part of the Regals' attack that saw 12 different players score.
Defensively, CLU held steady behind its goalkeepers, with de Souza recording three saves along with an assist, while
Sophie Raquel added four saves and matched her career-high four assists in relief.
With the regular season complete, the Regals now turn their attention to the postseason. Earning the No. 3 seed in the SCIAC Tournament, Cal Lutheran receives a first-round bye and will advance directly to the semifinals.
The Regals will travel to face No. 2 seed Claremont-Mudd-Scripps on Thursday, April 16 at 7 p.m., looking to avenge earlier-season losses and continue their postseason push.