LA JOLLA, Calif. – The Fresno Pacific men's water polo team competed in its first-ever Western Water Polo Association (WWPA) contest Friday night, but the historic evening was spoiled by eighth-ranked UC San Diego. The Sunbirds couldn't overcome a slow start to fall to the league-favorite Tritons, 19-2, at Canyonview Aquatics Center.

FPU falls to 4-4 overall and 0-1 in league play, while UCSD improves to 4-6 overall and 1-0 in the WWPA.

The Tritons received a goal from Andrew Moore in the opening minute and took control of the game with a 10-0 run to lead 11-0 at halftime.

The Sunbirds jumped on the scoreboard in the third period with a goal from Connor Cookingham. FPU received its final score from Daniel Seymour with two minutes remaining to make the final 19-2.

UCSD, who won the WWPA a year ago, was led by Josh Stiling's five goals, while Cameron Ravanbach made 14 saves in the cage to limit the Sunbird offense.

"I'm happy with how hard our guys fought tonight," said head coach Bryan Suhovy. "They never once let down. UCSD is ranked eighth nationally, so we will take this as an opportunity to grow. We're going to rest, recover and get ready for LMU tomorrow."

FPU continues WWPA play tomorrow in Los Angeles against Loyola Marymount at 12 p.m.