By Ricardo Garcia — (@Rickygdeportes) — Reporter
SJSU women’s water polo (2-7) were defeated in a close battle by Arizona State (4-3) at the Stanford Invitational by a score of 9-7.
Both squads looked to set the tone early offensively, letting the ball fly in hopes of finding the early advantage.
After two minutes of scrappy play from both teams, it was the Devils that found the back of the net first thanks to junior center Alba Olivé Martí.
The Spartans did not wait long to respond with a well placed shot from graduate driver Clarissa Wandinger.
Each team added one more goal to tie the game up at 2-2 setting up an intense second frame.
The high octane pace continued into the second period, however this time it was the goalies that stole the show stopping every shot that was sent their way.
After a scoreless second period, SJSU determined to swing the momentum and did just that. Graduate utility player Olga Descalzi ended the match with a hat trick that put the Spartans ahead.
The initial spark from Descalzi was quickly neglected by a three goal rally from the Devils giving them a 5-3 lead.
By the end of the third period Arizona State held a 6-4 lead with only eight minutes left to play.
SJSU opened the final period of action with two quick goals to tie the game at 6-6. Despite the rapid goals, the Spartans once again fell victim to the potent Devil offense.
The SJSU defense could not hold and Arizona State fired off three goals to secure the victory.
This loss extends the Spartans’ losing streak to six in a row and marks their third consecutive loss by only two goals.
The Spartans will travel to Davis on Feb. 11th to take on Pacific in the UC Davis Tournament. Opening tip is scheduled for 1:30 p.m.