WHITTIER, Calif. (Feb. 15, 2025) – Newcomers
Kayla Arias (Brea, Calif. / Brea Olinda / Fullerton College) and
Paula Fernandez (Barcelona, Spain / Westcliff University) led a host of Whittier College women's water polo contributors against Austin College in a tight game decided in the final seconds of regulation.
While the Poets came up on the short end of things, both Arias and Fernandez showcased their goal scoring ability, accounting for a trio of goals apiece. Arias wrought havoc in front of the Austin College net, while Fernandez showcased her shot from the left side. Both players were able to get on the board in a five-goal first period that proved crucial to the Poets' chances down the stretch. Returners
Haley Kivett (Beaverton, Ore. / Southridge) and
Alexandra Haluska (Brea, Calif. / Brea Olinda / Fullerton College) also got in on the offensive action over this stretch. Kivett in particular delivered a highlight-reel worthy goal from about 25 feet out that she was able to lob over the opposing keeper's reach.
However, the Kangaroos were resilient, eventually turning the tables on the Poets in the second quarter in a way that set the stage for the remainder of the game. Whittier took a two-goal lead into the final period, but the visitors were able to sustain just enough solid possessions together to prevent Whittier from earning its first victory of the season.
Goalkeepers
Aubrie Kirkby Tatro (Arroyo Grande, Calif. / Arroyo Grande / Cuesta College) and
Candace Tezak (La Habra, Calif. / La Habra / Fullerton College) split time in net, and both players made athletic plays in different segments of the game to keep the Kangaroos at bay.
Head Coach Preslav Djippov and the Poets will have a chance at redemption against the Kangaroos later this season on neutral ground. Next, however, they will turn their attention to Azusa Pacific University and the University of Toronto at the Tina Finali Tournament.
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