By Wes McCurtis

CYPRESS, CA – The Cypress College women's water polo team put up a fight at home in Wednesday's loss against one of California's top teams. The Riverside City College Tigers advanced to 14-1 overall and 3-0 in OEC play with a victory over Cypress, 7-12. The Chargers move to 8-5 overall and 1-3 in the Orange Empire Conference. 

Natasha Velez led the Chargers with 4 goals, 4 steals, and 4 ejections drawn. Freshman Allison Gracia notched 4 assists and 4 steals, while sophomore Ailien Nguyenly added 4 steals and a goal. Goalie Kaylie Merrill finished with 8 saves on 20 Tiger shot attempts. 

Cypress played RCC close early, trailing just 4-7 at the half. Both teams traded goals in the third quarter, giving Riverside a comfortable 10-6 lead heading into the final frame. The Chargers were unable to overcome the deficit, netting just one goal in the fourth to RCC's two. 

Women's water polo will return to action at the Ventura Tournament this Friday and Saturday.

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