WASHINGTON, Pa. (Sept. 24, 2017) – The Salem International University (SIU) Tigers men's water polo team suffered a tough loss in the closing seconds of its match against the La Salle University Explorers, falling 14-15. 

In a rematch from the previous weekend, the Tigers once again led late into the game as the Explorers mounted a furious comeback. This time, Salem had victory fall through its grasp in heartbreaking fashion, giving up a last second goal on a cross-pool heave from Explorer goalie Owain Llewellyn.

After splitting its two Sunday matches, having defeated Connecticut College 20-18 later in the day, SIU is now 5-9 on the season.

With the loss, the Tigers split its two Sunday matches, having defeated Connecticut College 20-18 later in the day. SIU is now 5-9 on the season and 2-2 in Mid Atlantic Water Polo Conference play.

"Our execution is very poor. We have to start playing smarter," Tigers Head Coach Robert Bullion said. "We have a couple weeks to get things fixed."

The Tigers struggled in power plays, scoring just three goals in 16 opportunities.

Milos Popovic scored four goals to lead Salem. Djordje Stavrevski and Petar Leontijevic each scored three goals, Robert Juhas scored two goals and Marton Dudok and Michael Rojas scored one goal each.

In its 20-18 victory over the Connecticut College Camels, Popovic scored a game-high seven goals, followed by Stavrevski with three. Four other Tigers scored two goals apiece and two others had one goal each.

SIU will have one more home match against Mt. San Antonio College on Sept. 29 before the Collegiate Water Polo Association Division II Championships begin on Oct. 14.