Staff Writer
South Pasadena boys’ water polo lost a hard-fought battle against the La Cañada Spartans Tuesday afternoon in La Cañada. The squad kept the score close throughout the game, and forced overtime, where they eventually fell 11-10. This is the second loss the Tigers have suffered to the Spartans this year, the first being just as competitive.
Senior Ryan Rodriguez spearheaded the team’s offensive attack, netting two goals to lead the team out tied 2-2 at the end of the first. By halftime, the Tigers were leading 4-2 after sophomores Leo Sonner and Cameron Benitez each tallied a goal.
The Spartans didn’t waste time catching up in the second half, and the third quarter ended with the score tied up at 5-5. Senior goalkeeper Will Renken kept the score tight, racking up five saves in the fourth quarter alone. As a result of his and the team’s efforts, the boys entered overtime 8-8.
In the first period of overtime, the Spartans scored quickly, but sophomore D.J. Myer fired back in the last few seconds of the quarter, evening it out at 9-9. Each team scored early in the second period of overtime, and the match remained tied at 10 until the last minute. With 37 seconds to go, the Spartans scored the decisive goal. The Tigers’ final effort hit the crossbar and time expired as La Cañada ran out the clock.
The Tigers fall to 3-3 in league, 8-13 overall. The team heads to San Marino on Tuesday, November 4 to take on the rival Titans.They close league season against Temple City on Thursday, November 6, and will seek victories against both to ensure a spot in the CIF playoffs.