Nov. 5, 2017
San Jose, Calif.--- The #11 San José State University men's water polo team was defeated 14-6 by the #3 UCLA Bruins Sunday afternoon at the West Valley College pool. The game got away from the Spartans early as they were down 7-3 at the half. The Spartans scored four of their six goals on powerplays in the loss.
"We cost ourselves with some mistakes early, but we proved we can play with them," said Spartan head coach Bruce Watson. "If we were up to full strength I think we would have done okay. However, I think the team adjusted to the game very well, and played some good defense."
Luka Cupic was the only Spartan with two goals in the match. Jackson Kennedy, Finn Pardon, Cade Baldridge, and Jacob Mercep each had goals against the Bruins.
Crispin Hawkins received his first start of his Spartan Career against the #3 team in the nation after injuries to the three Spartan goalkeepers. Hawkins had four saves in the match.
"It's a tough task to come off the bench against the number three team in the nation," said Coach Watson. "Crispin stepped up. He knew he was the only guy, and he made some great saves. He made some good passes, and blocked some tough shots. They have some very good outside shooters, and Crispin made some good saves."
UCLA sealed the victory with a hat trick from UCLA's Matt Farmer, and a pair of goals from Luke Henriksson and Alex Roelse.
Spartans play their final regular season match against conference opponent Pacific on November 10 at 7:00 p.m.