The Paly junior varsity boys water polo team began the league season with a game that most teams can only dream of. The Vikings came out strong against league rival Gunn last Wednesday, September 17th, drowning the Titans 13 — 5.
Sophomore Robbie Nakamura started out the first quarter by winning the sprint for Paly, and went on to win the remaining three sprints. Nakamura played an amazing game as leading scorer, along with sophomore Zander Foder, with three goals each.
The boys had a 4:1 lead by the end of the first quarter, creating a gap that the Titans were unable to close. By half time, the Vikings had a six-point lead, holding Gunn at 8:2.
Sophomores Adrian Chow and Dan Griffin contributed to the victory, each scoring twice. Freshmen Wesley Kerman, Jeremy Curken, and Tim Davis notched one goal each.
The Vikings were able to monopolize on their six on five offenses, scoring on two of their three opportunities. Gunn proved unable to draw a single ejection.
In addition to a scoring offense, the Vikings sported a sharp defense. The team came together to support nine goalie saves, and took 11 steals. Their obvious speed over Gunn allowed for several quick shots on counter attacks, as well as many two-on-one situations.
Freshman goalie Ross Holman contributed to the ample victory, making seven saves and only allowing two goals. Freshman goalie Adam Whitfield got the opportunity to prove himself in the fourth quarter. Whitfield blocked two of the five Gunn shots taken while in goal.
The Vikings came into their league season with a triumphant game, showing amazing promise for the rest of the season. As a young team, with a new coach, their frequent practices and hard work have paid off in their entrance into league competition.