UCSB split two women’s water polo matches on Friday, beating Concordia 10-7 and falling to seventh-ranked Michigan 11-10 in sudden-death overtime.
Against Michigan, senior Kathryn Nelson recorded three momentum-shifting goals in just over six minutes. Her first goal came in the fourth quarter with only eight seconds left, tying the game at eight and sending it into overtime.
Claire Buchanan drew a Michigan ejection to set up Nelson for a goal that tied the score at 9-9 early in the second overtime period.
The No. 12 Gauchos took the lead in the second overtime period off Nelson’s hat trick goal. With time winding down Michigan’s Lauren Colton scored just out of UCSB goalkeeper Ruth Milne’s reach to send the game into sudden-victory overtime.
The Gauchos had multiple opportunities to put the game away but couldn’t connect. The Wolverines counterattacked and earned a penalty shot. Lauren Orth converted for the victory,
The Gauchos received solid performances from senior Christie Clark, who went two-for-three on penalty shots and recorded another goal in the fourth quarter. Milne was also impressive and recorded 15 saves in the game.
In game two of the doubleheader, the Gauchos opened up a 4-1 lead in the first period and led 8-2 at halftime.
UCSB will host its Winter Invite on Saturday and Sunday. The Gauchos’ first game is against Cal State Bakersfield (0-2) at 1:15 p.m. at the Recreation Center Pool.
