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Tatum Benson
15
Fresno Pacific FPU (4-19)
17
Winner Gannon GAN (16-5)
Fresno Pacific FPU
(4-19)
15
Final
17
Gannon GAN
(16-5)
Winner
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 3 4 F
Fresno Pacific FPU 3 3 4 5 15
Gannon GAN 4 3 5 5 17

Game Recap: Men's Water Polo |

Golden Knights Get the Best of 'Birds in Quarterfinals of WWPA Tournament

IRVINE, Calif.- It was heartbreak for the Fresno Pacific Sunbirds Friday afternoon in the quarterfinals of the WWPA Tournament as a pair of last second goals for the Gannon Golden Knights lifted them to a 17-15 victory. 

The game started with high energy from both teams. Gannon struck first at the 5:54 mark. The Sunbirds quickly equalized as Samuel Ramos found the net, assisted by Forrest Gray. The teams traded goals throughout the period. Fresno Pacific kept the score close, thanks to a buzzer-beater from Jake Canalas, assisted by Pietro Cattano, to end the period at 4-3 in favor of the Golden Knights.

The 'Birds leveled the game early in the second period with a goal from Cattano, who delivered a stellar performance throughout. The Sunbirds briefly took the lead as Christiano Sandino converted an assist from Tristin Fox. However, the Golden Knights were relentless, scoring twice in this period, including a penalty shot. Jordan Lambert's late goal kept Fresno Pacific in contention, ending the period tied at 7-7.

The third period saw an offensive explosion. Gannon started strong, leading a quick two-goal streak. Maldonado's penalty shot got the 'Birds on the board, followed by an excellent goal from Cattano, assisted by Ramos. Forrest Gray stepped up for the Sunbirds, contributing back-to-back goals, including one off an exclusion. Despite this, Gannon edged ahead with late-period goals, finishing the period 12-11 in favor of Gannon.

The final period was thrilling as both teams fought hard to secure the win. Gray continued his dominance, scoring a penalty shot and following up with two more goals, keeping Fresno Pacific close. Sandino also found the back of the net late in the game, assisted by Maldonado. However, Gannon's offense, proved too much, with the Golden Knights scoring twice in the closing minutes. Despite Maldonado's late goal, Gannon sealed the game with a buzzer-beater, finishing 17-15.

The Sunbirds will close the season tomorrow with a game against the UC Merced Bobcats at 3pm. 
 

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