Rustlers Use Strong Second Half to Edge Mounties; Dominate Southwestern in Doubleheader Sweep

The Golden West College Rustlers women's water polo team showcased grit in a doubleheader sweep, defeating Mt. San Antonio College 13-12 in a nail-biter and cruising to a 20-8 win over Southwestern. The Rustlers improved to 9-8 overall with their two victories on Friday. 

Game 1: Rustlers Edge Mt. San Antonio 13-12

Golden West found themselves in a tough battle against Mt. San Antonio, but clutch performances from Makena Gray and Hanna Menyhart helped the Rustlers pull out a 13-12 win.

Gray's four goals, anchored the offense, while Menyhart added three goals of her own. Key contributions from Candice DeMayo and Angi Franzetti, who each netted two, allowed the Rustlers to keep pace with the Mounties' attack.

Goalkeeper Nathalia Johnston was pivotal, making 14 saves on 26 shots to secure the win.

Game 2: Rustlers Dominate Southwestern 20-8

In their second game of the day, the Rustlers found their rhythm and overwhelmed Southwestern with a commanding 20-8 victory. Golden West's offense was firing on all cylinders, led once again by Menyhart, who scored five goals. Catherine Le and Candice DeMayo also impressed, each tallying four goals, while Makena Gray added three to complete her outstanding day.

Lana White contributed two goals, and Franzetti and Allyssa DeMayo chipped in with one apiece to round out the scoring.

Defensively, Johnston was brilliant in goal once again, recording 16 saves on 24 shots to stifle Southwestern's efforts. Although Paulina Santa Cruz led Southwestern with five goals, the Rustlers' balanced attack and strong goalkeeping proved too much to handle.