CYPRESS, CA – The Cypress College women's water polo team (12-5, 2-3 OEC) picked up three wins in four games during the 21st annual "Battle of the Beach" tournament, hosted by Cypress, Cerritos, and Long Beach City College this past weekend.
After losing the tournament opener to Mt. SAC, the No. 9 Chargers earned victories over Citrus, Cuesta, and Ventura to finish 9th in the 22-team tournament.
The Mounties took it to Cypress in Friday's opener, defeating the Chargers 14-4. Despite a disappointing loss, the Chargers would bounce back later in the day with a hard fought 10-7 victory over Citrus. Sophomore Allison Gracia led the way for Cypress with a season-high 5 goals and 3 steals. Sophomore goalie Kaylie Merrill helped clinch the victory with 7 saves.
Cypress picked up a huge 11-10 victory over Cuesta to open play on Saturday. The Chargers and Cougars entered the tournament tied at No. 9 in the CCCAA state women's water polo rankings, but surely, the victory will move Cypress ahead before postseason play. Sophomore Natasha Velez led the way, netting 6 goals and grabbing 4 steals for the Chargers. Cypress would wrap up the weekend on a high note, using a strong second half performance to knock off Ventura College 13-8, as sophomore Josie Miller erupted for 7 goals and 5 steals.
Women's water polo will return to the pool November 1st - 3rd in the Orange Empire Conference Championship Tournament, hosted by Fullerton College.
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