A strong first half by Pomona-Pitzer proved to be the difference against the University of La Verne in handing the Leopards their first SCIAC defeat in women's water polo action Wednesday in Claremont.
The Sagehens would strike first and take an early 3-0 lead courtesy of Alyssa Woodward, Vicky Gyoffry, and Katy Schafer. Leopard goalkeeper Lauren Shepard would keep La Verne close with seven saves heading into the second frame. Shepard's effort would allow La Verne to breakthrough with 4:50 left in the half as Alex Gudeneau tacked on a goal to bring the Leopards within two. A persistent Pomona-Pitzer defense would stall the La Verne offense, giving the Sagehens two more opportunites to score, increasing their lead to 5-1 at the half.
Despite several shots at the net, the Leopards would convert only one goal in the second half after Ryanne Bible broke away to add a goal for La Verne. Both offenses would cool until Sarah Westcott would cement the match at 5-2 with her goal with 3:10 left in the match.
Lauren Shepard finished the contest with 15 total saves on the day.
La Verne is now 6-8, 0-1 SCIAC on the year and go on the road to take on George Washington University and Macalaster at the Lancer Invitational beginning at 11:20 am.