Sept. 30, 2017
Stanford, Calif.--- The San José State University men's water polo team (5-6) was defeated 16-5 by the Stanford Cardinal (7-3) Saturday at the Avery Aquatics Center. The Spartans dug themselves into a hole early, down 9-1 at halftime.
"Were just young and inexperienced" said Spartan head coach Bruce Watson. "We played hard, but we passed up shots. We did okay, but just need to grow up. This is a competitive group. Regardless of the score, the team went out and battled. Everybody is very competitive, and knows when they can play better."
Six goals from Stanford freshman, Ben Hallock, put the game away for the Cardinal.
San José State's Jacob Mercep who has led the team with 38 goals this season suffered three exclusions early, and fouled out of the game three minutes into the third period.
Five different Spartans scored a goal in the match. Justin Pickering, Jackson Kennedy, Conor Shuey, Jacob Mercep and Bendeguz Toth each had a goal against the Cardinal.
San José State goalie TJ Palmer had four saves in the first three quarters. Crispin Hawkins made his first appearance in net for the Spartans when he entered in the fourth period.
"There are a lot of things to go over, and learn from this game. The team loves seeing the areas they can improve," said Coach Watson.
The Spartans next compete against UC Irvine Friday, October 6, in Irvine California.