Here are my fearless predictions, made in the spirit of fun and generating interest, for Wednesday’s CIF girls water polo playoff games:
Division 1 first round
Laguna Beach def. Marina
Irvine def. Canyon
Los Al def. Beckman
San Marcos def. Villa Park
Corona del Mar def. Edison
Santa Barbara def. Saddleback
Newport Harbor def. Dos Pueblos
Foothill def. Woodbridge
A couple thoughts: I’m not calling any upsets today. Edison-CdM, however, appears intriguing. Edison has often peaked well toward the end of the season under Coach Diggy Riley, and the Chargers played Newport and Los Al tough in league. Irvine-Canyon looks like a good game. I also won’t be surprised if Beckman pushes for Los Al. Beckman has improved under Coach Sam Bailey. I expect Newport to play well gainst Dos Pueblos, whom they just beat, 13-4, at the SoCal tourney. Another decisive win could give the Lady Sailors momentum for the quarterfinals, which should offer some amazing games Saturday.
Tuesday’s record: 15-2. Congrats to Tustin and Rancho Alamitos for winning tough road games to prove me wrong.
