On Tuesday, Oct 22, the Archie Williams girls varsity water polo team faced the Marin Catholic Wildcats to defend their home pool. Their last home game of the regular season, the matchup also featured a senior night celebration to congratulate graduating senior players with flowers and speeches. The Falcons’ high spirits led them to secure a victory over the Wildcats 12-7, improving their season playoff record 16-3. The Archie William Girls Varsity water polo team now sits at first seed as they head into their second MCAL season.
The first quarter began with the Falcons securing possession. This highly defensive quarter allowed for little scoring, ending 2-1 Falcons with the help of junior Sylvie Fine and sophomore Holly Hovey. One of four seniors, goalie Kaeley Sullivan, blocked several shots for the Falcons to keep the Wildcats at bay.
“The most challenging part of the game was the first quarter, your first quarter really sets the pace for the rest of the game. If you come out flat it can dictate how the rest of the game is going to go,” Kaeley said.
The second quarter started with the Falcons winning the sprint and gaining first possession again. This time, the Falcons progressed their strong offense and managed a free shot for freshman Elsa Kastner. She scored with the help of freshman Taylor Fahy and senior Avery Hinkelman. The Falcons ended the quarter dominant, extending their lead 8-2.
During halftime, head coach Todd Duplanty called up the team’s seniors and honored them with speeches and flowers. Seniors celebrated with their families, taking photos and sharing the spotlight.
“The best part of the game was halftime because we got to celebrate our seniors. We’re just so grateful for them because they’ve worked hard this season, and it’s sad to see them go, but they really were a part of this team and made a difference,” Holly said.
During the third quarter, the Falcons slipped up just enough to allow the Wildcats to score three points, soon matched by Archie Williams. The Falcons defense flagged under the pressure from the Wildcats’ offense. Luckily, the Falcons defense held up by the end of the quarter, keeping their lead of 11-5.
“I liked the third quarter the best because you’re coming off half[time}. Usually, during the third quarter that’s when you kind of have to lock in, finish the game and bring your fire,” Kaeley said.
In the final quarter, the Wildcats showed off their defense, blocking most shots from the Falcons and only allowing a single goal. In return, the Falcons’ defense blocked consistent shot attempts, but the Wildcats scored two more points to end the game at a final score of 12-7, in favor of the Falcons.
“It was a great night for the seniors, so we were here to celebrate them. They got an opportunity to play together and log some minutes, and that’s what was important to me,” Duplanty said.
Although their regular season has come to a close, the Falcons look forward to their next game Thursday, Oct. 29, for the first matchup of MCAL playoffs, which start next week.
