Cate boys water polo dominated the first half and never looked back en route to a 15-6 rivalry win over Carpinteria High on Tuesday in Carpinteria.
The Rams had complete control on both ends of the pool early, racing out to a 6-0 lead after the first quarter and a 10-1 lead by halftime.
The Warriors found a bit more offensive success in the second half, but Cate maintained the comfortable lead on its way to a 15-6 win.
Monte Prince spearheaded the offensive effort for the Rams, scoring four goals and dishing out two assists. Fletcher Prince also had a strong all-around performance with two goals, three assists and two steals.
Cate’s Liam Moes and Owen Mathripraganda each scored twice, with Moes adding five steals.
“I challenged our guys to limit turnovers and to find our best offensive opportunity, not the first one that presents itself,” Cate head coach Jesse Morrison said. “We had contributions top to bottom and executed at a very high level.
“Carp has several guys who can score under pressure, but our individual and help-side defense was swarming and presented challenges. I am proud of the way we committed to our game plan, helped one another, and played high-IQ water polo.”
Carpinteria High got a strong effort from Stefano Picoletti, who collected six blocks, two steals and two assists.
Cate will be on the road against Malibu on Wednesday, while the Warriors will compete in the Buena Tournament this weekend.
Buena 15, San Marcos 10
The Royals opened Channel League play with a loss to the Bulldogs on Tuesday in Santa Barbara.
It was a tight matchup for most of the game, with San Marcos leading 2-1 after the first quarter and the two teams heading into halftime knotted at 6-6.
However, the Bulldogs took control in the second half, coming out of the break hot and taking a 10-8 lead after the third before pulling away for the five-goal win.
San Marcos’ Brandon Lee led the team with four goals, while Indiana Roth recorded a hat trick.
The Royals will remain at home to host Ventura High on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.
