UCLA lost to the University of Southern California 11-10 on April 25 in the National Collegiate Water Polo Championship semifinal at Canyonview Aquatic Center in La Jolla, California. The Bruins held a one-goal lead entering the fourth quarter but were unable to maintain it against the Trojans.
The match was significant as it determined which team would advance to the national championship game. With this win, USC moves forward to face California for the title, while UCLA ends its season with a record of 21 wins and five losses.
Taylor Smith led UCLA with four goals, and Lauren Steele made 11 saves for the Bruins. For USC, Emily Ausmus and Maggie Johnson each scored three goals. Anna Reed recorded nine saves for the Trojans. “The Trojans opened scoring with a pair, one on a power play and the other at even strength,” according to information provided by UCLA Athletics.
After trailing early, UCLA tied the score multiple times during regulation play. Elektra Urbatsch scored two consecutive goals late in the first quarter to bring her team level. Anna Pearson contributed both offensively and defensively with seven exclusions drawn and four steals.
Smith converted two penalty shots during critical moments of play but despite their efforts, UCLA could not overcome three straight goals from USC at the start of the final period. Bia Mantellato added another goal for UCLA late in regulation but it was not enough to close the gap.
USC finished ahead by converting four out of eight power plays compared to three out of twelve for UCLA. The result means that USC will continue into Sunday’s championship game against California.
