No. 1 CdM shuts down No. 3 Newport Harbor

CORONA DEL MAR — With two premiere defensive teams battling in the pool, offensive execution took a backseat in the Back Bay rivalry game between the girls water polo teams for No. 1 Corona del Mar and No. 3 Newport Harbor.

In their first official matchup since last season's CIF-SS Section Division I championship game, the Sea Kings managed to stymie the Sailors' attack for three quarters and held on for a 6-3 victory.

Though the victory was far from a turning point with the season still so young, the game holds substantial significance.

"It's always a heated battle, in any sport," CdM coach Aaron Cheney said. "It doesn't matter if you're playing for last place in a tournament, if you're playing Newport it means a lot … This was a good win."

After trading turnovers and failed shot attempts, the Sea Kings (5-0) struck first midway through the opening quarter. On a 6-on-5 advantage, junior Margot Money found junior Victoria Kent stepping out on the far post for an easy goal.

By halftime, CdM had extended its lead to four, while holding Newport Harbor (1-2) scoreless. The Sailors had chances, including a breakaway, but senior goalie Kate Baldoni lived up to her reputation and turned away everything on frame. Baldoni finished with 11 saves.

After a scoreless third quarter from both teams, senior Nicolina McCall's steal was rewarded with a breakaway opportunity, which she converted and finally put the Sailors on the scoreboard.

Just over a minute later, Newport Harbor benefited from a man-up advantage and junior Katie Jackson found the back of the net to cut the lead to 4-2.

However, the Sea Kings never let the game get any closer. On the ensuing possession, a step-out goal from set by senior Victoria Kennedy, followed up by a lob shot goal by Kent locked up the victory.