Dos Pueblos played even with Division 1 No. 2-ranked Foothill for all but one period in its girls water polo season opener on Saturday.
The Chargers were outscored 4-1 in the third period and that proved to be the difference as Foothill escaped with an 8-5 victory at the Elings Aquatic Center.
“We were all encouraged at the end of the game,” said DP coach Chris Parrish, who has several freshmen on the team. “We came in a little bit nervous, but we played a really solid first half and a good fourth quarter.”
Freshman Ryann Neushul scored two goals in her varsity debut to lead the Chargers in scoring. Her cousin, Thea Neushul, also a freshman, freshman Olivia Kistler and senior Jordan Williams had one goal apiece. Defensively, Ryann Neushul drew six ejections and a penalty shot. Toni Shackelford had three assists and two steals.
“It was a great showing for us. We played solid defense for three quarters,” Parrish said. “Petra Huebner played a good game in goal. Huebner, a sophomore, was making her varsity debut.
