GENEVA, Ohio – The Salem University women's water polo team was edged by No.3 seeded California State East Bay 6-5 in the first round of the Western Water Polo Association (WWPA) 2019 Championships, Friday afternoon.
 
CSUEB edged the Tigers in shot attempts 30-28, while it also posted a slightly higher shooting percentage .200 to .178.
 
Junior Maryanna Antoniou and freshman Chloe Woodbine each posted two goals, while Woodbine added one assist.  Freshman Erin Zappia notched one goal and one assist.
 
In the first period, Salem trailed 2-1 after East Bay scored the first to goals of the game. Heading into intermission Salem trailed 3-1, but a huge third period had them within one 5-4.
 
In the final period, Salem trailed 6-5 as it had two opportunities at a goal but both shots hit off the crossbar in the final 10 seconds as it fell just inches away from overtime.
 
Salem will now compete in the consolation bracket as it will face the winner of Mercyhurst and McKendree at 3:00 p.m. tomorrow.