The Carpinteria girls water polo team came up short on its bid to advance to the second round of the CIF Division 4 playoffs, falling to Buena, 6-3, in a first-round game at the Carpinteria Municipal Pool on Tuesday.
The Warriors created scoring opportunities in the 2-meter position but struggled to get the ball past Buena’s goalie.
“Buena was the quicker team today, both on offense and defense,” said Carpinteria coach Jon Otsuki. “They beat us on counterattacks and inside drives. On defense, they stole the ball and forced desperation shots.”
The stellar play of goalie Erin Otsuki kept Carpinteria in the game. She totaled 15 blocks on the day.
Kate Isaac, Lilli Nemetz and Giulia Piccoletti scored for the Warriors, who finished the year 16-7 and champion of the Citrus Coast League.
“Sadly, the loss puts an end to an amazing season where the Warriors demonstrated resilience and perseverance over the entire season,” said Otsuki.
This was the second time this season the Warriors lost to the Bulldogs.