Haley Johnson scored off a crossing pass from Riley Heiduk in overtime to lift San Marcos to an important Channel League girls water polo win at Ventura on Tuesday.
The win puts the Royals in sole possession of third place.
After Johnson scored, San Marcos played tough defense to hold on for the victory.
Coach Brian “Chuckie” Roth said goalie Jenna Phreaner had a huge game, making 18 saves and notching five steals.
“She played amazing,” Roth said. “She kept us in the game. It was one of the best performances by a San Marcos goalie in ages. She made steal after steal, and made it hard for them.”
Johnson and Hannah Koper each scored two goals for the Royals, who improved to 8-14 overall and 2-4 in league play.
“The kids are feeling pretty good right now,” Roth said. “It was nice to win a game that really mattered.”
San Marcos will next play at the Southern California Championships in Newport Beach, opening Thursday against Carlsbad.
