By Ethan Ndachi – Spear Reporter | Senior Renee Fleming attempting a shot against SDSU on Feb.9. (Photo by Abby Westrope – Spear Photographer)
It was a strong showing by the No. 19 Spartans women’s water polo team (9-6) this afternoon on the road where they defeated the No. 20 University of the Pacific Tigers (5-4) 12-7 in the Bronco Invitational.
SJSU has won its last five games in a row and now look to sweep the Bronco Invitational.
Spartan freshman Bridget Cranley had a great performance, having found the net four times as the match’s top goalscorer.
Despite SJSU having slightly more shots in the first quarter (nine), they were not as clinical as Pacific who led 3-2 by the end.
SJSU hit the bar twice in the first quarter.
The Spartans were finding more success in the second quarter, outsourcing Pacific 3-2 despite the back-and-forth action.
The match was tied 5-5 going into the half after a last-minute goal from UOP sophomore Anna Crum to end the second quarter.
But the Spartans showed their class the rest of the game, scoring a total of seven goals and conceding only two late goals in the final quarter from the opposition.
It was also another key performance by goalkeeper Grace Smith between the sticks, with six saves to keep SJSU’s lead up and secure the victory away from home in the Bronco Invitational.
“I think we’ve always kinda had that healthy rivalry between UOP, and so it’s really exciting to see our team come together and push through on those tough moments,” SJSU coach Beth Harberts said.
Looking forward, the Spartans are scheduled to face the Marist Red Foxes at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow in Santa Clara.
