FRESNO, CA — Guarina Garcia led all players with six goals, Victoria Mezack dished a career-high six assists, and the University of La Verne women's water polo team went goal-for-goal with Fresno Pacific in the second half.

But the surge was not enough to overcome a five-goal first half deficit as the Sunbirds defeated the Leopards 19-14.

Stat Leaders

Garcia had an outstanding game for the Leopards, adding three assists and two steals to her goal total. Five of Garcia's goals came in the second half. 

Mezack did her job distributing the ball, adding to her SCIAC leading 22 assists. Mezack also added three steals.

Jassmine Kezman scored four goals, three in the second half and added one assist and one steal. Illene Guerrero also found the back of the net four times. The junior took advantage of power-play situations, scoring three times with the Leopards up a player. 

Sam Witt led the Sunbirds with four goals.

Turning Point

The Leopards led 3-2 midway through the first quarter before Fresno Pacific went on a 9-2 run to end half to surge ahead for good.

Season Impact

The Leopards drop to 4-9 overall and Fresno Pacific improves to 5-18 overall.

Next Game

The Leopards face off against Cal State East Bay on Wednesday at 2 p.m.