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Slack shot
Jayson Ortiz - @photosbyjayson
19
Winner Salem University SU (0)
17
Biola BU (0)
Winner
Salem University SU
(0)
19
Final
17
Biola BU
(0)
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 3 4 F
Salem University SU 7 4 5 3 19
Biola BU 3 7 4 3 17

Game Recap: Men's Water Polo | | Ethan McGarvey, Sports Information Director

Biola Battles But Falls Short in 19–17 Shootout with Salem

Great offenses collided on Saturday afternoon but it was WWPA foe Salem that got the edge over BU.

US AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. --- In a thrilling, high-scoring contest at the U.S. Air Force Academy's Cadet Natatorium, Biola Men's Water Polo put up a valiant fight but ultimately came up short in a 19–17 loss to Salem University on Saturday afternoon.

Game two of the season and of the day saw the Eagles face off against a conference opponent from out east. Salem and Biola met on neutral ground, potentially setting up an electric postseason contest if they were to battle in the WWPA Tournament.

On Saturday, the Eagles found themselves in an early deficit as the Tigers erupted for seven goals in the opening quarter, taking a 7–3 lead. Despite early conversions from senior Kevin Slack and junior Noah Ryznar, Biola's defense struggled to contain Salem's attack.

Biola responded forcefully in the second quarter. The Eagles outscored Salem 7–4, with Slack netting three of his game-high five goals during the first half. Senior Caleb Hernandez added a penalty goal, and Levi Bengelink contributed two key strikes to close the gap. At halftime, Biola trailed by just one, 11–10.

The third quarter was a back-and-forth offensive barrage. Hernandez continued his standout performance with another penalty conversion, and Gavin McKenzie tallied a powerplay goal. However, Salem maintained its edge behind clutch goals, taking a 16–14 lead into the fourth.

Biola continued to pressure in the final frame. Adam Lavoy scored early on a man-up opportunity, and Slack added two more goals to bring his total to five. Yet, Salem's James Fenner delivered the dagger with under 30 seconds left, securing the 19–17 final.

Despite the loss, Biola statistically outshot Salem 38–30 and showcased resilience and offensive depth. Kevin Slack led all Eagles with five goals, while Hernandez and Bengelink added three apiece. Biola converted on 4 of 13 powerplay chances and scored three penalty shots.

The Eagles (1–1) return to the pool on Sunday, taking on Ottawa at 9:20 am PT and RV Air Force at 1:20 pm PT.
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