Santa Barbara’s defense throttles San Marcos

Santa Barbara's defense sagged in to keep San Marcos on the perimeter

Kelsey O’Brien was a force at both ends of the pool, scoring four goals and making five steals to lead Santa Barbara to a 10-7 win over San Marcos on Tuesday.

The Dons (15-6, 5-2) held the Royals to just two goals in the first three periods and built an 8-2 lead going into the final period.

Makenzy Fowler added two goals and four assists for the Dons, while Jessica Gaffney had a goal and two assists. Madeline Trabucco had five saves in three quarters of work.

Santa Barbara and San Marcos (13-9, 3-3) travel to the So Cal Championships on Thursday in Irvine.