Women's Water Polo

Lancers Win High-Scoring GCC Matchup

No. 22 California Baptist earned an 18-14 win over rival Azusa Pacific in GCC play Saturday.

GLENDORA, Calif. - No. 22 California Baptist  triumphed over the Azusa Pacific Cougars with an 18-14 victory in a thrilling Golden Coast Conference matchup at Citrus Aquatic Center in Glendora, Calif. The Lancers showcased a balanced attack with standout performances from Emmie Ramirez and her seven-points game.

Ramirez finished with four goals and three assists for the Lancers (8-5, 1-1). Niya Bumbaca had a six-point game, scoring five times with an assist. Evelyne Prado and Audrey Drexter had four points each for Azusa Pacific (11-5, 1-1).

The game began with an explosive first quarter, where both teams exchanged goals. The Cougars opened the scoring with Kori Cunningham, but CBU quickly responded. By the end of the quarter, the Lancers held a narrow 5-3 lead, fueled by goals from Morgan Gates and Reese Beringer.

In the second period, both teams continued to battle fiercely. CBU managed to extend their lead thanks to Bumbaca and Ramirez's efforts, yet APU kept the pressure on by matching them goal-for-goal. The Lancers finished the half ahead 10-5, thanks to a late goal from Madison Haworth.

The Cougars came out strong in the third quarter, scoring six goals and narrowing the gap to just two points. Prado and Jessie Nelson led the charge for APU, but CBU’s response was equally potent, ensuring they maintained their lead at 14-11 going into the final quarter.

The last period saw APU trying to mount a comeback, with Audrey Dexter scoring twice. However, CBU's consistent scoring from Beringer, Ramirez, and Bumbaca closed out the game, solidifying their victory. With this win, the Lancers demonstrated their resilience and offensive capabilities, solidifying their status in the GCC.