STOCKTON, Calif. – In a rematch of the 2022 national semifinal, the #7 Pacific men's water polo team put together a hard-fought effort against the defending national champions in front of a rowdy crowd, but ultimately dropped the contest to the #1 California Golden Bears, 17-8, on Sunday afternoon at the Chris Kjeldsen Pool.
 
"They're a fantastic program with a ton of talent and well-coached," Pacific head coach James Graham said of the defending national champions. "There are things we did well in the game that we can build off. Ultimately, the message is we have to be better."
 
Six different Tigers found the back of the net, including a pair of goals from freshman Spencer Burdack and junior Daniel Viscia each. Senior goalkeeper Lewis Gale made eight saves.
 
Right from the start with the crowd on their feet making noise, the Tigers and the Bears battled with some stalwart defense, which featured a couple big saves by Gale to pump up the fans in attendance.
 
The Tigers pounced out front with a 2-1 lead after tallies on back-to-back possessions by junior Gil Gvishi and junior Filip Norell. The Bears were able to hold a slight edge after the opening period, leading 3-2 after the first eight minutes.
 
The Bears took control of the second quarter with a six-goal frame, but Pacific answered late in the period to cut the deficit to 9-4.
 
In the third quarter, the Tigers and Bears exchanged great looks offensively as the Tigers notched four goals, which was their most in a period on the day.
 
The Bears closed out the contest with three more tallies in the fourth period to cap off the 17-8 score.
 
The Tigers head on down for the Gary Troyer Tournament Friday and Saturday, Sept. 29-30.
 
Pacific is at home again on Sunday, Oct. 8, for the Eberhardt School of Business Day. The Tigers host UC Davis at 1 p.m.