On Tuesday, Sept. 24, girls water polo went against the Round Rock Dragons in a thrilling match at the RRISD Aquatic Center.
The game started with McNeil making an early attempt at the goal with a bouncing shot, narrowly missing. Round Rock quickly took advantage, passing the ball swiftly and dribbling it into position for a score, taking an early lead. By the end of the first half, Round Rock established a 5-0 lead, leaving the Mavericks on the defensive.
McNeil managed to get on the board when a persistent play from junior captain Gabrielle Allen resulted in their first goal of the game. After two consecutive shots hit the top of the goal, the ball bounced off the opposing goalie’s head and into the net. Round Rock continued their offensive pressure, bringing the score to 6-1.
“When it hit the top I thought it was gonna bounce out and go to the other side, so I was just really surprised,” Allen said. “Everyone thought it was hilarious.”
The second half saw both teams battling hard. The Mavs’ defense, led by some key blocks from freshman goalie Sarah Lunsford, showed great effort. Round Rock however, maintained control of the game, scoring several more times.
Allen says that despite the final score, their team showed massive improvement.
“We’ve gotten better,” Allen said. “Our first scrimmage was against Round Rock and we went from a score of 18-0, to 13-4, which is good.”
Round Rock took the win with a final score of 13-4. Though the Mavs’ didn’t get the victory, their hard work and determination were clear, and they’ll be looking to bounce back in the next game.
