Women's water polo connects on last-second goal in first win

ORANGE, Calif — Women's water polo took home its first win of the season in dramatic fashion as All-American transfer Alyssa Fricker connected on a game-winning goal with four seconds remaining to send Chapman home with the victory, 17-16.

Fricker ended her debut performance as a Panther with four goals. The driving force of the offense, however, was Kasey Markell.

The junior tallied eight goals, a career high, including a streak of four consecutive goals starting at 7:36 in the second quarter all the way down to the two minute mark. She would tack on one more goal at the end of the frame after Westcliff responded with a goal to finish the second with all five of Chapman's goals and a 5-1 quarter advantage.

Chapman entered the half up four, but a Warrior comeback would challenge the Panthers. After surrendering the lead, the Panthers and Warriors would trade goals, eventually reaching a stalemate.

Westcliff called timeout with 35 seconds left. A quick offensive possession put the ball in the Panthers' hands and Fricker did the rest.

Chapman was also helped by goalie Georgina Burton who collected seven saves and four steals on the night.

The Panthers improved to 1-1 on the season with the victory and will be back in action at Allred next Friday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m.

By Joe Perrino

Assistant SID / Recreation Sports Manager

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