Sophomore Katie Coski came off the bench to score three goals and freshman Paige Hauschild picked up her offensive output in the second half to help San Marcos defeat Murrietta Valley, 14-12, in a pre-Tournament of Champions water polo game on Thursday at Santa Barbara High’s pool.
Murrietta Valley is ranked third in CIF Division 2.
San Marcos, No. 8 in Division 1, broke a 6-6 halftime tie behind a balanced attack. The Royals led 12-9 after three periods and held off Murrietta Valley in the fourth period.
Hauschild scored three of her four goals in the second half and had three pivotal steals and two assists. Senior Halie Johnson was solid throughout the game, scoring three goals and picking off three steals. Brittany Prentice add two goals and Riley Heiduk and Hailey Gellert added one apiece.
San Marcos (10-2) is playing in the Tournament of Champions for the first time under coach Chuckie Roth. The Royals open against Division 2 top-ranked Santa Margarita at 12:30 at Santa Barbara.
