Cal Men’s Water Polo Defeats San Jose State 12-6, Extends winning Streak
BERKELEY, CA – The California Golden Bears men’s water polo team continued its strong start to the season Saturday, defeating the San Jose State Spartans 12-6. The victory improves Cal’s record to 7-1 overall as they prepare for a challenging upcoming tournament.
This win underscores Cal’s position as a dominant force in men’s water polo, building momentum as they head into the MPSF Invitational-a crucial test against some of the nation’s top programs. The Bears’ balanced scoring and stifling defense demonstrated Saturday suggest they are well-equipped to contend for a conference championship and a potential NCAA title.
The Bears controlled the first period, shutting out the Spartans while Albert Ponferrada and Patrik Kolak each found the back of the net. San Jose State responded in the second quarter, tying the game 2-2 at halftime. However, Cal surged ahead in the third, scoring five goals – including two from leading scorer Kiss Akhvlediani – to take a commanding lead.
Akhvlediani finished the game with a team-high three goals on four shot attempts, bringing his season total to a team-leading 22 goals and 30 points.A total of nine Bears contributed to the scoring effort: Akhvlediani, Tomas Perrone (2), Jack Wilson (1), ponferrada (1), Istvan Szatmary (1), Kolak (1), Jack Kelly (1), Masato Inoue (1), and Luka Mirkovic (1).
goalkeeper aran Pina was instrumental in the victory, recording 11 saves, with nine coming in the first half. Cal also dominated in other facets of the game, earning 10 exclusions, six field blocks, and nine steals. Tomas Perrone led the team with a game-high plus/minus of +6.2. The Bears capitalized on two of their nine power-play opportunities and shot 43% from the field (12-of-28).
Cal will next compete in the MPSF Invitational, beginning Friday in Southern California. Fans can follow the team’s progress on Twitter (@CalWaterPolo) and Instagram (@calmwaterpolo).
