GENEVA, Ohio — The Salem University Tigers (3E) delivered a championship-caliber performance in the WWPA Championship Quarterfinal, pushing the #2W Biola Eagles to the very brink before ultimately falling in a heart-stopping 15-14 decision at the SPIRE Aquatics Center.
The match was an instant classic, defined by aggressive, high-scoring polo and non-stop momentum swings that highlighted the fighting spirit of the Salem side.
Tigers Offensive Roar
Salem's offense was dynamic and balanced, led by two exceptional scoring efforts that kept the Eagles' defense guessing until the final whistle.
Relentless Fight on the Scoreboard
The Tigers refused to back down from the higher-seeded opponent, dictating the pace early and proving their resilience as the game wore on:
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First Quarter Lead: Salem set the tone by taking a 4-3 lead after the first period, demonstrating their readiness for the high-stakes tournament environment.
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Tied Until the End: Despite Biola's second-quarter surge, Salem battled back, exchanging goals frequently. The score remained perfectly tied at 12-12 heading into the final quarter.
Goalie Duel and Final Moments
In a match decided by the narrowest of margins, goalkeeper Mateja Cerovic delivered a stout performance in the cage, recording seven saves to keep the Tigers within striking distance.
Ultimately, the Eagles' defense held off Salem's final frantic attempts, allowing Biola to escape with the 15-14 win and end the Tigers' tournament run. While the loss is a painful exit from the championship, Salem's players demonstrated the skill and grit needed to contend with the top tier of the WWPA.
Next Up, the Tigers take on California-Merced on Day 2 of the WWPA event. That contest starts at 4 PM on Saturday, November 22nd.
