Dos Pueblos hung with powerhouse Mater Dei for a period before the top high school water polo team in the nation pulled away for a 14-6 win Thursday at the Elings Aquatic Center.
“We were only down 2-0 at the end the first quarter,” DP coach Chris Parrish said. “Our defense did great.”
The Chargers were able to generate some offense against the three-time defending CIF Division 1 champions but their shots were gobbled up by Mater Dei’s outstanding goalkeeper McQuinn Baron.
“Their goalie is on the senior national team. He’s incredible,” said Parrish.
DP’s Blake Parrish was handful for the Monarchs’ defense. He drew eight ejections, including a pair that resulted in penalty shots. But the Chargers were denied by Baron.
Despite the loss, coach Parrish saw some good things from his team.
“I was happy with a lot of things. We attacked a lot on offense and created opportunities. We drew 12 exclusions in four quarters, putting ourselves in position to score.”
Jake Griffin scored two goals to lead DP. Chris Parrish, Taylor Gustason, Scott Mahan and Quinn Peacock each had one goal. Goalie Emil Huebner played a strong match, coming up with 11 saves.
Mater Dei is coached by DP alum and former U.S. Olympian Chris Segesman.
