The San Marcos girls water polo team started strong at the Holiday Cup in Newport with two wins that put them in Friday’s semifinals.
In the opening game, eight different Royals scored in a 14-8 win over Yucaipa, including three goals each from Kate Meyer and Charlotte Raisin. Along with Lucy Haaland-Ford, Marina Brown, and Naomi Enright each recorded three steals.
In the second game, Raisin and Ava Stryker scored five goals each while goalie Elaia Hamilton recorded nine blocks, two assists and a steal in a 13-8 win over Newport. Regan McEachen, commanding the center forward position, recorded four drawn ejections, two 5 meters drawn, and one goal.
On Friday, San Marcos faces Orange County powerhouse Laguna Beach in a semifinal matchup at 11:40 a.m., at Newport Harbor High School. The winner will advance to the final at 4:05 p.m.
We played well today, and I was very impressed with our depth and players who made impacts,” Royals coach Chuckie Roth said. “In both games, we were impressive in the first quarter — Yucipa 7-0 first quarter and Newport 5-0 first quarter.
“I think we are playing well and are improving our team defense. Today was a great indicator of our growth.”
Santa Barbara
The Dons dropped two games Thursday, losing 11-7 to Oaks Christian and 12-4 to Foothill.
In the two games, Layla Szymczak had four goals and three assists, and earned six exclusions. Oli Obando had two goals and earned seven exclusions, Addie Sweeney had two goals, two assists, and three steals. Nalani Yim had 18 saves and seven steals.
Santa Barbara plays Carlsbad Friday morning.