No. 4-seeded Irvine girls water polo team upset by Long Beach Poly in CIF playoffs

Sophia Banua of Irvine gets ready to take a shot Saturday. (Photos courtesy Jim Tomlin).

Long Beach Poly held on to defeat No. 4-seeded Irvine 9-7 Saturday in the quarterfinals of the CIF Division 3 girls water polo playoffs at the William Woolllett Aquatics Complex.

“Saturday was a tough loss for us,” said Irvine Coach Raymond Wong. “We didn’t execute the game plan and LB Poly took advantage of our mistakes. Like the whole season, we never gave up and tried to make a comeback but ran out of time. It was definitely a growing experience for our young team on what it takes to become a championship team.” 

Senior goalie Kayla Melville had nine saves including a five-meter block. Sophomore Sophia Banua had four goals to lead Irvine (18-8). Emma Beliveau, Julia Bautista and Sydney Marlin had one goal each for the Vaqueros.

To see additional photos, click on the first picture:

Irvine's Julia Bautista reaches for the ball.

Irvine goalie Kayla Melville tries to make a stop vs. Long Beach Poly.

“I’m so proud of what we have accomplished this season and can’t wait to start preparing next year,” Wong said. “I am grateful for the senior leadership, the girls’ daily effort, and the team harmony that these girls brought to the team. I love coaching this team.”

Long Beach Poly (20-10-0) will host JSerra Wednesday at 5 p.m. at Cabrillo High School in Long Beach in the semifinals.