The Palo Alto High School boys’ water polo team (13-6, 7-2) defeated Wilcox High School, 17-8, on Tuesday night at home, advancing to the Central Coast Section quarterfinals.
Last year, the Vikings lost to Mountain View High School last year in the opening round of the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League Championship, ending their hopes of qualifying for CCS. The team has turned things around this year with a convincing win against the Chargers.
Powered by a strong counter attack, the Vikings staked an early lead and never looked back.
“It [the game] was great,” coach Giovanni Napolitano said. “It means a lot to be in CCS, because we still have a young team.”
Sophomore driver Bret Pinsker’s five goals paced the Vikings. Senior team captain and driver Ken Wattana contributed four goals while senior driver Jack Smale, freshman driver Will Conner and senior whole set Marcos Matta scored two goals each. Junior Aaron Zelinger and sophomore Michael Kori each contributed one goal.
Paly came to play despite knowing little about the Chargers, who won the lower El Camino Division league to qualify for CCS, according to Ken Wattana. The Vikings had good ball control, with only six turnovers, and a stifling defense to limit Wilcox’s attack.
“It’s really nice,” Pinsker said. “The three freshmen on our team, including myself, have three more years so I am glad we made it to the quarterfinals. That’s big.”
The Vikings will face defending CCS Division I champions Bellarmine College Preparatory on Saturday. The Bells are renowned for their swimming ability. Paly will have to continue its offensive efficiency and excellent ball control to avoid being countered and burnt in transition, according to Pinsker.
“We will just have to come out with our plays and play as aggressively as they do,” Pinsker said. “We have to make sure to protect the ball and limit the amount of steals they get.”
Napolitano also acknowledged that it will be a competitive game, but has no doubt that his team is ready.
“It is going to be a tough game, but we will play them tough right back,” Napolitano said.