FRESNO, Calif. – The Fresno Pacific women's water polo team faced crosstown rival Fresno State on Friday night, as the Sunbirds couldn't overcome a slow start to fall 16-6 in front of 858 fans at the Fresno State Aquatics Center.
 
INSIDE THE MATCHUP:
Final: #21 Fresno State 16, Fresno Pacific 6
Box Score
Records: FPU (0-5), FS (2-6)
Location: Fresno, Calif. | Fresno State Aquatics Center
Series: FPU trails 1-0
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QUOTABLE:
• "It was a great opportunity for our girls to be a part of the inaugural home opener for Fresno State. Those types of games and crowds are rare in our sport. I was proud of how our girls played. Even though it wasn't the outcome we wanted, we executed a lot of things we have been working on. We have some small things we need to improve on, but all in all it was a good night for us. Fresno State put on a top notch show and it was an honor that they wanted us to be a part of that. It's a mutual and continued effort to promote and grow water polo in the community, and support each other. The girls played aggressive and positive from beginning to end. We're still early in the season and have a lot to work on. I continue to be excited about the direction we're moving in." – head coach Bryan Suhovy
 
HOW IT HAPPENED:
• After the Bulldogs scored first early in the match, the Sunbirds responded with a goal from Hannah Holly 13 seconds later.
• Fresno State responded with an 8-1 run, however, to take control of the match.
• The Bulldogs, who led 12-3 at halftime, won the second half 4-3 to run away with the win.
 
STATS OF THE GAME:
• Holly led the Sunbirds with two goals and an assist, while Savannah Mangrum added a goal and two assists.
• Julia Ponce, Jenna Collins and Emma McBride rounded out the scoring with a goal apiece, while Madeline Frey added five saves in the cage.
• Fresno State out-shot the Sunbirds 35-21 on the night.
• FPU was held to 1-of-10 on power plays.
• Isabella Magno led the 'Dogs with four goals.
 
BEYOND THE BOX
• Fresno State is ranked #21 in the CWPA national poll.
• The match was the Bulldogs first-ever home match.
• The Sunbirds dropped to 0-3 against ranked opponents this season with the setback.
 
UP NEXT:
• The Sunbirds are back at it on Saturday at home against Cal State Monterey Bay at 1 p.m.