By Rachel Lu and Isabella Tsai
Staff Writers
Photos by Hana Tyszka
Staff Photographer
The girls’ water polo team opened its season with an impressive 12-2 victory against the Monrovia Wildcats on Tuesday, January 10. This win improves South Pas’ overall record to 7-1 and brings its league record to 1-0.
South Pas started the game strong with a uniform team dynamic as players delivered smooth passes leading to the game’s first goal from junior Hayden Carlson. The Tigers held the lead for several minutes as both teams struggled for the ball until sophomore Jael Osborne brought the score up to 2-0. With a minute left, sophomore Sydney Shettleroe capped off the first quarter with a goal over center cage, extending their lead to 3-0.
Monrovia opened the second quarter with long drawn out possessions, displaying its offensive capabilities with an improved passing game. The opposing team continued to threaten the Tigers’ lead with a second goal before South Pas responded with two quick scores from Carlson and Osborne. Senior goalie Skyler Ramirez blocked any Wildcat attempts followed by junior Sumiko Rudinsky’s swift goal in quarter’s final seconds.
South Pas opened the second half with a 6-2 lead over the Wildcats but struggled to widen the margin early in the third quarter. Many of the Tigers’ shots were deflected and it wasn’t until later that Carlson and Osborne were able to gain momentum, each of whom scored once. Carlson hit a buzzer-beater shortly after, ending the third quarter with a 9-2 lead over Monrovia.
In the fourth quarter, the Tigers slowed down their game. A foul on Monrovia left Osborne open and gave her a straight shot to add another point to South Pasadena’s growing lead. Carlson scored another goal with two minutes left, and Osborne finished the game with her fifth goal of the day.
The Tigers hope to continue their success in their next matchup on Thursday, January 12 at home against the San Marino Titans. Last year, South Pas cruised past San Marino with wide margin victories in both of its matchups against the team.
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Sumiko’s last name is spelled Rudisky. There is no N in it.