The Pitman High girls varsity water polo team came ready to play on Wednesday against Golden Valley and their efforts resulted in a 17-6 win over Golden Valley.
The Pride are now off to a 2-0 start in the Central California Conference and they did it with a little senior help.
Senior Audrey Morgan scored a team-high five goals for the Pitman Pride, which controlled GV from the onset after notching four early goals in the first period and never looking back.
“I thought we did really well, they did exactly what I asked,” said Pitman head coach Erica Crain. “We had a chance to work on some things that we couldn't against Atwater, which was really nice since I think next week is going to be a big week so for them to be able to do it today gives them confidence that next week will be a little easier than it was prior.”
Monday's league opener against Atwater was an 11-7 victory for Pitman but it wasn't easy. Wednesday was a bit different.
From Monday's game they seemed to carry enough momentum to handle GV in a cogent result.
“I think today we talked a lot more,” said Hannah Pimentel. “We communicated a lot more, and were more aware of where the ball was.”
Pitman built a solid cushion after two periods and went into halftime with a 9-4 lead, however, the Pride didn't look satisfied.
They went on to outscore GV 8-2 in the second half, including five in the final seven minutes.
Seven different Pride players scored for the match.
The Pride's other senior, Samantha Guerino, notched two goals and junior Pimentel scored a pair of goals as well.
“I think we worked more as a team since we came out with an open mind and did it as a team and we pulled through,” said Pimentel.
Pitman's games next week will be against Merced and Buhach Colony, two highly capable teams.
“Next week is going to be tough for us,” said Crain. “If we do what I ask, we should be fine but if we play the way that they have have it will be rough, but if we play like we did here against GV then we will be alright.”
“Buhach is a really tough team,” said Pimentel. “I played with some of the girls over summer and they are great at shooting, defense and I just hope we continue to communicate and play as a unite since that is what we are here to do, make the safe passes.”
The Pride's first game will be against Merced at 5 p.m. Monday.
