FRESNO, Calif. - Fresno Pacific men's water polo earned its first conference victory of the season on Friday, defeating UC Merced 13-10 in a back-and-forth battle.
The 'Birds jumped out to a 3-2 lead in the opening period behind the efforts of
Chris Sandino before
Tristin Fox added another goal, fighting through the water to find the back of the net. UC Merced answered with 33 seconds remaining to pull within one, but
Ryder Stermer came up with a key defensive play, blocking a Bobcats shot as the buzzer sounded to preserve a 4-3 Fresno Pacific lead.
The second period remained tightly contested as both teams traded chances. UC Merced eventually moved in front 6-5 at 4:29, but Sandino set up Stermer for the equalizer at 1:48. Stermer then converted a penalty shot, beating the goalkeeper to the left corner to give the 'Birds a 7-6 halftime advantage.
UC Merced tied the match at eight early in the third period, but
Yanti Quijada answered with a goal from the left side at 1:27. Later in the period, the Sunbirds worked the ball around on a power play before Fox found the back of the net for his fourth goal of the game, putting the 'Birds ahead 9-8.
The Bobcats opened the fourth period with another equalizer, but Fresno Pacific quickly responded as
Jesse Bryan restored the lead. UC Merced answered once again to make it 10-10 before the 'Birds finally created some separation. With three minutes remaining, Fox and Sandino combined to push Fresno Pacific ahead 12-10.
Jake Canales then converted a power play for the final goal of the night as the 'Birds closed out the 13-10 victory.
Chase Hammes recorded six saves in the cage.
Fresno Pacific men's water polo is 4-12 overall and 1-0 in WWPA play.
NEXT UP: The Blue and Orange are back home next week for the conference match against Biola on Friday, October 9 at 7pm!
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