Ventura Splits Games at Battle of the Beach

The Pirates' women's water polo team split two games on the first day of the 22nd Annual Battle at the Beach Tournament at Cerritos College Friday. VC lost to Cerritos 12-7 in the opener before posting a thrilling come-from-behind win over conference rival Cuesta in the nightcap. Leanna Ramirez scored four goals on the day and Cali Iadevaia had three scores. Shayle Barrus recorded 15 saves in the cage over the two games.

Ventura 7, Cerritos 12
In the tournament opener, the Pirates fell to the host Falcons. After a tight first quarter in which the teams were tied 1-1, the Falcons pulled away in the second quarter for a 7-4 halftime edge. Iadevaia scored three goals to lead the way for Ventura while Drew Reyes handed out four assists with three steals. Ramirez had a score with one assist while Raylynn Lipsky, Chloe Golden and Lauren Mora also netted goals. Barrus had nine saves and four steals in the game.

Ventura 8, Cuesta 7
The Pirates gained a measure of redemption, turning around an 8-7 loss to the Cougars last Saturday to an 8-7 win six days later. Golden, Lipsky and Reyes all scored in the fourth quarter to help the Pirates come back from a 7-5 deficit at the beginning of the period. Iadevaia assisted Reyes' goal with 14 seconds remaining for the game-winner. Ramirez had three first half goals to help VC to a 5-5 tie at intermission. Shaeleigh Russell also scored two goals with an assist in the game. Barrus recorded six saves and four steals in the cage.

Ventura continues play at the Battle at the Beach on Saturday Oct. 26 at Cypress College.