After a disheartening 8-15 loss to Chaffey College on Wednesday September 6th, the Citrus College Men’s Water Polo team looked to bounce back as they traveled to Ventura, California to face some stiff competition at the Ventura Tournament.
First up on the slate was pre-season #8 Riverside Community College. The Owls rose up to the occasion upsetting the Tigers 13-12. The Owls seemed to dominate the Tigers on the water garnering 12 six on five chances, and making good on 5 of those chances. Defensively the Owls played strong as well, only allowing the Tigers 4 six on five opportunities, while the Tigers converted 2 goals on those opportunities. Leading the way for the Owls was Connor Ruggio who scored 4 goals on 6 attempts, while still managing to contribute on the opposite end grabbing a team high 4 steals.
Next up for the Owls was perennial contender for a state crown Grossmont College. The Owls stayed with Grossmont for the match, but weren’t able to knock off the Griffins as the Owls fell 10-12. Douglas Moore paved the way for Citrus giving the Owls 5 goals, 2 assists, and 2 steals.
In day two of the event two more tough teams awaited the Owls, the first of which was against eventual Consolation Champion of the tournament Cerritos College. The Owls after awaiting their first competition of the day for most of the afternoon were never able to find their rhythm in the 9-17 loss. In the loss Douglas Moore was once again the stud for Citrus pouring in 4 more goals, 1 assist, and 2 steals.
After just a brief respite the Owls were up again to play their final match of the tournament against nearby Mt. SAC. It was a back and forth affair between the Owls and Mounties, with the Owls eventually getting the win in overtime. Connor Ruggio was the statistical leader for the Owls in the 11-10 win, as her registered 4 goals, 3 assists, and 2 steals in the match.
When all was said and done the Owls had improved their record to 2-3. The Owls will this weekend when the travel to Walnut, CA for the Mt. SAC Men’s Water Polo Tournament.