THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. - In a thrilling Friday showdown, the Fresno Pacific women's water polo team rallied after their first game against CSUN (20-6) and kept Cal Lutheran on their toes, narrowly falling to the Regals by one goal in the final period (11-12).

GAME 1 | FPU 12, CSUN 20

Despite a third-period surge where the Sunbirds scored five goals, they could not overcome CSUN's early lead. CSUN began the match with a commanding start, building a 0-3 lead over the 'Birds. Fresno Pacific responded with a goal by Maggie Cook, but CSUN quickly answered with two more goals, ending the first quarter 5-2. In the second quarter, the Matadors extended their lead with a 5-0 run to reach a 10-3 advantage. Although the 'Birds closed the gap slightly with a late surge in the third quarter, CSUN's offense remained relentless, securing the win 20-12.

Emma Cook led the Sunbirds with two goals and one assist, also contributing defensively with two steals. Dakota Lambert added two goals and drew three exclusions, showcasing her impact on both ends of the pool. Regan Azevedo also netted two goals while assisting on another, balancing her offensive contributions. M. Cook distributed two assists and scored once. In the cage, Evalena Filippi made five saves, providing a steady presence in goal.

GAME 2 | FPU 11, CAL LUTHERAN 12

The Sunbirds scored five goals in the third quarter to take a brief lead, but Cal Lutheran's four goals in the final quarter sealed the win.

The match began with Cal Lutheran's scoring, but Fresno Pacific quickly responded with a goal from E. Cook, leveling the score. The teams traded goals through the first quarter, ending with Cal Lutheran holding a slight 3-2 lead. In the second period, Fresno Pacific's Azevedo equalized, slowing down the Regals momentum. The third quarter saw a flurry of activity, with both teams exchanging goals, including a late push from the Sunbirds with two consecutive goals to take a 9-8 lead. In the final quarter, an impressive steal by Sierra Coyne gave Cook a chance to score, denting the twine from an assist from Autumn Johnson, bringing the 'Birds ahead 10-9. Cal Lutheran didn't stay away too long, tying the score 10-10. The teams continued their tight contest, with E. Cook scoring again to rally, but Cal Lutheran came back to win 11-12.

Key returner E. Cook led the offensive effort in both games on Friday afternoon. Against Cal Lutheran, she contributed four goals on ten shots, collecting six goals for the day. Azevedo contributed significantly with her second hat trick of the season and adding one assist and a steal. M. Cook added two goals and an assist, showcasing her efficiency with three shots. In goal, Filippi made a notable impact by tallying 11 saves, making it 16 overall for the day.

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