ERIE, Pennsylvania - After some tough results up in Michigan last time out, the Salem women's water polo team was anxious to get back into the water this weekend as they continued conference play up in Erie, Pennsylvania. It ended up being a very successful weekend for the Tigers with 4 wins in total including a sweep over conference opponents McKendree and Gannon. Each contest played out as follows:

Salem 9, McKendree 8

In a closely contested match at the WWPA Erie Classic, Salem University narrowly defeated McKendree Bearcats 9-8 at the Hallman Aquatics Center in Erie, PA. The game showcased a thrilling back-and-forth, with both teams demonstrating skill and determination.

Salem University set the tone early, scoring three goals in the first period, including two from standout player Emily Rosa. McKendree responded with a goal from Bella Morquecho, ensuring a competitive start to the match.

The second period saw a surge from the Bearcats, led by Jasmin Guzman's impressive three-goal performance. With McKendree scoring five goals in the second frame, they momentarily seized control, taking a 6-4 lead before the halftime break.

However, Salem University rallied in the second half, with continued strong play from Rosa, who finished the game with four goals. The Tigers managed to outscore McKendree in the final two periods, securing the victory with a late push.

Despite a valiant effort by McKendree's goalkeeper Sydney Kane, who made eight saves, it was not enough to stop the Tigers. The match concluded with Salem's winning goalie performing admirably, leading to a hard-fought 9-8 triumph over the Bearcats.

Salem 14, Gannon 12

In a thrilling encounter at the Hallman Aquatics Center during the WWPA Erie Classic, Salem University Tigers triumphed over Gannon Golden Knights with a close score of 14-12. This match showcased intense competition as both teams fought hard for supremacy in the water.

Salem University was led by standout performer Kristen Hemmila, who scored an impressive six goals. Her contributions were pivotal in maintaining the Tigers' lead, especially in the final quarter. Other notable scorers for SU included Lucy Bramwell with two goals and both Emily Rosa and Mackenzie Hamilton, who also netted two each.

Gannon fought valiantly, with Jade Strickland and Molly Fehr each contributing four goals to the team's efforts. They made significant strides in the second and third quarters, but ultimately, the Golden Knights fell short as the Tigers surged ahead in the final moments of the game.

The game unfolded with Salem establishing an early lead, but Gannon's resilience saw them respond quickly. The scoring was back and forth, with Gannon briefly leading before Salem pulled away in the fourth quarter, capitalizing on their offensive momentum.

In goal, Emily Low was instrumental for Salem, racking up 12 saves, while Gannon's goalkeeping duo of Molly Sebunia and Izabella Trunzo combined for eight saves. The match was a showcase of skill and determination, highlighting the competitive nature of women's water polo in the WWPA.

Salem 15, Washington & Jefferson 12

In a nail-biting matchup, the Salem University Tigers narrowly defeated the Washington & Jefferson Presidents with a score of 15-14. The game showcased a series of impressive performances, with both teams exchanging leads throughout all four quarters. Salem's Mackenzie Hamilton and Milica Zelic were standout players, each contributing four goals to their team's victory.

The first quarter set the tone for an electrifying game, ending in a tie at five goals apiece. Salem's Hamilton found the net twice early on, while Washington & Jefferson Rattlicff and  Nemman responded strongly, keeping the score tight. The back-and-forth scoring continued as both teams displayed tenacity and skill.

As the match progressed, Salem managed to gain a slight edge in the second quarter with a score of 3-4, pushing their lead to 8-9 by halftime. Key goals from Zelic and Hamilton kept the momentum going for the Tigers, while WJ's E Halle and H Rattcliff tried to close the gap.

Washington & Jefferson fought back in the third quarter, but Salem responded with three goals to maintain their slim lead. The final quarter saw intense action, with Salem scoring four more goals and holding off WJ's attempts to overtake them, despite three goals from Ratcliff.

Ultimately, Salem's solid defense and effective goalkeeping by Morgan Fenner, who saved six shots, were crucial in securing the win. This thrilling encounter ended with the Tigers on top, marking a significant moment in their season as they edged out the Presidents in a tightly contested match.

Salem 17, Penn State Behrend 3

In the final contest of the weekend, Salem had an offensive showcase in store for their opponents from Penn State Behrend. The Tigers controlled the contest from start to finish to cap the weekend with a 17-3 win. Kristen Hemmila led the way for Salem with 5 goals. In goal, Lorelai Weaver tallied 9 saves in the win. 

The Tigers will be energized with these wins as they are set to round out regular season play on April 12th at 6 PM when they head to Saint Francis for a solo contest against the Red Flash.