Story and Photo by Marcus Tolero
The City College of San Francisco water polo team (4-9) advanced to the Coast Conference Championships after defeating visiting De Anza College Dons 21-10 yesterday in the playoff play-in round.
The win catapulted the Rams to a playoff match against Foothill College. The winner of this match will advance to the championship game.
CCSF came out the gates quickly against De Anza (2-8) by outscoring the Dons 7-1 in the first period. Julia Lane netted four of the seven first-period goals, and Ashley Davis scored the remaining three. The dynamic pair finished the match with 14 of the Rams' 21 total goals (Lane 8, Davis 6).
The Rams never relinquished their lead against the Dons. The defense held De Anza to one goal in the first quarter, two goals in the second quarter, three goals in the third quarter, and four goals in the fourth quarter. Goalkeeper Katy Granell had a strong showing in front of the net by saving 8-of-18 shots.
Head Coach Phong Pham hopes to have a repeat of Wednesday's performance when the play Foothill College (12-10), the top team in the Coast-North Conference .
"We played better overall yesterday. We were much better at shooting, and I hope it will carry over to Friday," Pham said. "Against Foothill, we need to be better in transition defense and slow down the game and set up the front-court offense. We need to set up the half-court offense, work the shot clock, and focus on transition defense. "
The Rams last played Foothill College on October 20. Foothill defeated the Rams 21-5.
Friday's game time is 11:15 a.m.
Coast-Conference Championship Tour Bracket
Friday, November 3rd
Game 2 10:00am Las Positas vs Cabrillo
Game 3 11:15am Foothill vs CCSF
***Coaches Meeting at Conclusion of Game 3***
Game 4 1:30pm Loser Game 2 vs Loser Game 3 (3rd place)
Game 5 2:45pm Winner Game 2 vs Winner Game 3 (1st Place)