ERIE, Pa. –The Salem University men's water polo team was edged by McKendree 13-12 in the Mid-Atlantic Water Polo Conference West Tournament Championship, Saturday afternoon.
 
The Tigers posted an 11-14 record on the season. 
 
Salem's offensive was led by junior Milos Popovic as he notched four goals in the contest that all came in the second half. 
 
Sophomore Michael Rojas garnered three goal in the contest, which all came in the first quarter, while freshman Mike Diaz tossed-in two goals. 
 
Senior Inigo Velasco, junior Salvador Orozco and freshman Austin Kephart each added one goal to the match.
 
Senior Mateo Kozomara tallied 17 saves in the game to lead the Tigers' defense. 
 
Salem and McKendree were tied 6-6 at the end of the first quarter, while in the second quarter McKendree outscored Salem 4-1 to take a 10-7 lead at the half. 
 
The Tigers outscored McKendree 5-3 in the second half but fell just one point short.
 
"This is the most resilient group of guys. Things were stacked against us all year and these guys have never stopped all season," stated head coach Rob Bullion. 
 
After the game, Popovic was honored with First Team MAWPC-West All-Tournament, while Velasco, Rojas and Orozco earned a spot on the second-place team.