Varsity boys water polo emerged victorious through their combined offensive and defensive efforts in an intense game between Walnut and Diamond Bar on Tuesday, Oct. 8.
The match began with shooter junior Nathan Wang scoring two goals from an assisted tip in and a foul shot from the 4/5 side, putting Walnut in the lead. The Mustangs continued their streak with set guard senior Jayden Huang and shooters juniors Anthony Santos and Braden Cobb scoring the next few goals. With many successful shots, the first quarter ended 7-1.
“We came out strong, which is what we needed to do against Diamond Bar. Because of the rivalry, a lot of our [players] know their [players], so they always turn it up when they play us,” head coach Bryan Canchola said. “I’m glad that our [players] were able to meet that call.”
Heading into the second quarter, the team’s main focus was to shut down the Brahmas’ best players. Despite attempts by the Mustangs to stop the Brahmas’ offense, they obtained many points, ending the second quarter 9-6 with Walnut still leading. However, through multiple scoring efforts, the Mustangs steadily gained points, finishing the quarter with a score of 15-9.
“[During the second] quarter, [we] made little mistakes, but we adjusted real quick [and] fine-tuned them,” captain senior Jakob Villasenor said. “We played to where we usually played and we dominated.”
The fourth quarter proved to be difficult for the Mustangs, and the Brahmas made four consecutive goals as the Mustangs failed to score. Regardless, the players maintained their lead by regaining the ball from their rivals. The quarter concluded with Walnut winning the game 17-13.
“I think we did amazing because everyone just clicked in the water during this game. It was really fun,” Santos said. “We faced challenges like being pressed up a lot, but we overcame the challenge by driving through and going to the goal.”
Along with the victory, water polo had its annual senior night where seniors Logan Rodriguez, Huang and Villasenor were recognized for their skills and hard work. The players performed with determination throughout the game and took advantage of scoring opportunities.
“They played like a team, and they got the job done. They’ve been doing that more and more as the games have gone on, which I’m very happy to see,” Canchola said. “They played for each other.”
