Women's Water Polo falls in SCIAC opener

REDLANDS, CA — Ilene Guerrero led the Leopards with three goals, Jassmine Kezman and Guarina Garcia each scored twice, and the University of La Verne women's water polo team headed into the final eight minutes knotted up 8-8 with Redlands. 

But La Verne couldn't find the back of the net in the fourth quarter and the Bulldogs scored twice, beating Leopards in their SCIAC opener 10-8.

Guerrero, a junior transfer from El Camino College, was efficient in the game, scoring on three of her four shot attempts. The Long Beach native also added a steal.

Garcia shined in her return to the Leopards' squad. The two-time All-American scored with three minutes left in the first half to even the game at 5-5 heading into the break. The senior from Puerto Rico added three steals and one assist.

Returning All-American, 2018 SCIAC Newcomer of the Year, and First Team All-SCIAC selection Jassmine Kezman scored twice in the third quarter to help keep pace with the Bulldogs, tying the game at 8-8 with 2:27 left in the period. Kezman totaled three steals.

Fellow All-American Shelby Garcia led La Verne in the cage with 10 saves and a steal. Victoria Mezack added two steals, one goal, and one assist.

Kolby Kahahawai led Redlands with four goals. 

Next Game

The Leopards will stay busy this weekend with the 2019 edition of the Convergence Tournament. La Verne will play twice on Friday and Saturday, opening the tournament with an 11:15 a.m game against McKendree at Las Flores Park.

Click here for the complete Convergence schedule.